THE QUARTERLY  OF THE  TEXAS STATE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

Vol. XI. OCTOBER, 1907. No. 2.

The publication committee and the editors disclaim responsibility for view expressed by contributors to The Quarterly.

THE RECORDS OF AN EARLY TEXAS BAPTIST  CHURCH. ¹  I.  1833-1847.

The Church Book, belonging to the Pilgrim Predistinarean Regular Baptist Church of Jesus Christ

Constitution of said Pilgrim Church

Whereas the various sentiments on the subject of the Christian religion now progressing in the world, cannot all be right and having no doubt but that god has his church or kingdom now set up in the world Who being all taught of the Lord speak the same thing—and also believing that every attempt to unite in union the advocates of any, or all of the various contradictory spirits or principles, are but stratigems of the enemey and markes of hypocrisy. Therefore we whose names are set to the following articals or expressions of faith, being of the regular Baptist faith and order, do, and have hereby agreed to unite, and live together in a church capasaty, upon said articals of faith, acknowledging our accountibility to each other, in the maintana[n]ce of the doctrine implied, or expressed therein

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Articals of faith

1st.

We believe in one only true and living god, eternal and Immutable. The creator of all created things, Visible and invisable Who governs all things in rightousness according to the Counsel of his own will, and that he has revealed himself to the Children of men in the scriptures of truth, under the Charrector of Father, Son, and holy ghost.

2d.

We believe that god created man good and upright, but that man by his sins and transgrassions has become dead in trespasses and sins and is utterly unable to change his own heart, or to deliver himself from the fallen depraved state which he has fallen into under the influance of the Power of Darkness.

3d.

We believe that god.s Elect were chosen in Christ before the world began, and was therefore appointed to faith and obedience in love, which is effected by the Power and spirit of god in the work of regeneration, according as god has purposed in himself to do, and that Jesus Christ was set up from everlasting as the head of his body the church, and that in consequnce of his union, or relationship thereunto as the head of the body, His righteous life, death, resurrection and assension, is the means or meritorious cause why the church is ever reconsiled to god.

4th.

We believe that god.s elect or chosen in Christ, will in time be effectually called, regenerated, and born of the Holy Spirit and stand justifyed before god, in Christ, which is the righteousness of god imputed to them, and that they will persevere in, or by grace to glory and never finely fall away, so as to be lost

5th.

We believe that good works in the acts of obedience, are the fruites of the faith of god.s elect, and follows after they are born of the spirit, as the effect of grace in the heart, by which their Justification is externally declared to the glory of god, and formes one of the main basses of the Christian union, which cannot be dispensed with

6th.

We believe, that the union and relationship of the members in the church or body of Christ, is such, that each memeber should submit themselves to the Church, with a fealing interest therein, and that Baptism and the Lords supper are ordinences in the Church of god, to be administered to none but believers in Christ, and that to be legally immersed in water is the only gospel act or mode of Baptism.

7th.

We believe, that none have a right to administer the gospel ordenances, but such ministers of the gospel who have received the legal authorety from the laws of Zion, by the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery, who act under, and by the authorety of the gospel Church, and that the church should hold her own keys of government in her own hands, and the ministray with which she is blessed are to considered her servents as lights and gifts which god has given to her, subject to the government and desciplene of the Church.

8th.

We believe in the internal work of the holy spirit, In experemental religion, The call to, and work of the ministray, and that it is the duty of the Church of god, to distinguish herself from all fals sects, by the expressions of her faith in Christ, and her understanding in the word of god as taught her by the divine spirit, and we will therefore have no Christian union nor fellowship with those who are denying these things.

9th.

We believe, that, the scripturs of the old and new Testaments are of divine origion and authorety, and is the only infailable rule of faith and practise and we therefore agree that the scripturs of devine truth, is, and shall be, by us, considered the only standard by which our faith and practise, is, or shall be tryed, keeping in view the expressions of our understanding therein as principles upon which we have agreed to unite.

10th.

We Believe that the Church or kingdom of god set up in the world is a spiritual kingdom—that men in a state of nature cannot see it, as to its spiritual existence—that it is the door or medium by or through which the children of god, (the converted soul) or subjects of the redeemers kingdom may step into their Christian duty, and shew forth the prays of him who hath called them out of darkness into his marvilous light, and that it is therefore the duty of the church, to recieve members by their relating their hope in Christ as their experimental knowledge of salvation by grace, wrought by that divine spirit which the world cannot receive, by which the heart felt union takes place, with those who have obtained like precious faith by the grace of god or same divine spirit.

11th.

We believe that the Lord.s day or first day of the week should be spent in the worship of god, and that on that day we should rest from all our temporal conserns, except in cases of necessety and murcy

12th.

We believe in the resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust and that the joys of the righteous will be eternal, and the punishment of the wicked of endless duration.

In testimony of our volentaryly uniting together in a church capasity upon the facts presented in the foregoing preamble and articals of faith to the surport of the doctrine expressed, or contained therein agreeing to receive in union with us, as oppertunity may permit or duty require, such as has been divinily taugh[t] into the same faith. We have caused our names hereunto to be set, this the 26th day of July 1833 in the presence of the Presbytery hereafter discribed by their cirtifecate.

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Names of Members Constituted

Daniel Parker, Patsey Parker, John Parker, Julious Christy, Rachel Christy, Salley Brown and Pheby Parker.

We whose names are hereunto set, connected with the Churches to which we belong, do certify, that we at the request and in the Presence of the regular Baptist Church at Lamalt ² Crawford County State of Illinois. Proseded on the 26th day of July 1833 to Constitute the foregoing named brethren and sisters, into a church Capacaty upon the acknowledged facts and doctrine contained or expressed in the foregoing Preamble and articals of faith and by the authorety of the regular Baptist Churches to which we severally belong in us vested. We have clo[t]hed them with authority, to transact business as a church. In testimony whereof we have hereunto set our names

Names. Churches

Elder Richard M. Newport Glady Lock

Richard M Highsmith Deacon “ “ “

Elder Thomas Young. Wm Griggs Deacon. Mount Zion

Joseph Neal, Jesse Page Deacons, Grand Prarie Church

John Wood, Fredrick Markley Deacons Lamalt “ “ ³ Prarie Church

After the Church was constituted she Proseded

1st.

Agreed to be known by the name of The Pilgrim Predestinarian Regular Baptist Church.

2d.

Appointed Brother Julious Christy Clerk, and adopted rules of decorum for the government of the Church while in cession.

3d.

Agreed that until the Church can have her regular, or, stated Church meetings, to hold Church meetings whenever two thirds of her members think it advisable and can be Present, but not less than two thirds can be a corum to do business at any other but her stated meetings.

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Rules of Decorum.

1st.

Church meeting shall be opened and closed by Prayr.

2d.

If there be not a stated moderator, There shall be one appointed by the suffrage of the members Present, and it shall be the duty of the moderator to keep the church in order, attend fairley to all questions before her and announce her d[ec]issions. Report any member immediately to the Church, who will not submit to order when Called on. Any member may Call to order. The moderator shall deside on Points of order, yet any member may appeal from his judgments to the Church, who shall settle the Point in dispute. The moderator shall not vote, except in the case of a tie to give the casting vote. He has a right to give his views on any subject, by calling on some member to keep order.

3d.

Visiting brethren in union with us, of our faith and order who are in good standing in their Churches, shall be invited to seats with us in Council

4th.

A door shall be opened for the reception of members whenever it may be thought nessosary.

5th.

Refferences shall be taken up and attended to

6th.

The door shall be opened for matters of Dealing where the gospel order has [not?] been attended to, or any thing that is like to marr the Peace of the Church. If there be nothing of that nature, Then any other business nessesary to be attended to.

7th.

But one Person shall Speak at a time, who shall arise from his seat, and address the moderator in order, and no one shall speek more than three times to one subject, without leave from the Church. No whispering reading etc. in the time of public speaking, and each speaker shall attend strictly to the subject in hand, without any unchristian like remarkes on a former speaker. No member shall leave his seat in time of business without leave

8th.

The Church agrees to do all her business by the Voise of a majority of her acting members, except in receiving in members, granting letters of dismission and setting forward gifts in the Church, which shall require a unanimous Voise. Yet the Church has the right to call for the cause of objections, judge of the propriety of the same, and the Voise of two thirds of the acting members shall govern in such cases, so as to over rule such objections

9th.

Every motion made and seconded shall come under the consideration of the Church except withdrawn by the Person who made it.

10th.

Any amendments may be made to these rules, when ever the Church may think it nessesary

11th.

It shall be the duty of the church Wheare anny Male member absents him self from the church three Meatings hand Running to Enquire the caus for so doing

August 11th 1833. The Pilgrim Church of Predistinarian Regular Baptists set at the house of Elder Daniel Parker Crawford County Ill. and in order Proseded to business Elder D. Parker moderator

1st.

Received Brother and sister, Robert Davidson [ADead] ⁴ and Rebecah his wife as by letter from our sister Church at Turmans [Freeman's?] Creek their letters having been granted, but the want of opportunity prevented their getting them. [ADismissed by Letter May, 1859]

2d.

Received Brother and sister, Stephen Crist, and Anney his wife by letter.

3d.

Recognised the former act of the members, in giving Brother and sister Christy letters of Dismission.

4th.

Appointed Elder Daniel Parker moderator of this Church and Brother Robert Davidson Clerk. Ajourned.

October 20th 1833. Clayburn Parish, Stat of Louisana The Pilgrim Church etc in her travail, conveened on the campground, and in order Proseded to buseness.

1st Received the following named Brethren and sisters by letters. (Viz) Elder Garrison Greenwood, Richard Eaton and Polly Eaton his Wife Joseph Jorden Nancy Faulkenbery Rachel Eaton and Elizabeth Eaton. Ajourned.

Texes, Austin's Colliney, Saturday January 20th 1834. The Church meet according to a previous arrangement at the House of Elder Daniel Parker.s and in order Proseded to business Elder G. Greenwood Clerk Protem.

1st. Agreed, that the Saturday before the first Lord.s day in each month be the days of holding Church meeting, and that the House of Elder Daniel Parker be the place of meeting for that Purpose, and that her first cession be in March next.

Ajourned.

Saturday, 1st March, 1834 The Church met and in order Proseded to business. Elder Greenwood Clerk protem.

1st.

Took under consideration the Propriety, of selecting or calling to office, a Deacon, or deacons, to serve the church in that capasety, and refered the act, thereon until the next meeting.

2d.

The Church agrees to meet at Eleven oclock, on the days of Church meeting.

3d.

Appointed D. Parker and G. Greenwood to Correct and arrange the Church Book. To be inspected next meeting. Ajourned.

The names of Members belonging to the Pilgrim Predistinarian Regular Baptist Church.

• Daniel Parker, Constituted, [Adead]
• Patsey Parker do. [Adead]
• John Parker Do. [ADead]
• Julious Christy Do. [ADismissed.]
• Rachel Christy. do. [ADis.]
• Sally Brown do. [ADead]
• Pheby Parker Do. [Adis.]
• Joseph Jorden, by letter [Adead]
• Rachel Eaton by letter [Adis]
• Isaac Parker, by letter [ADis.]
• Lucy W. Parker by letter. [Adis.]
• Lucinda Parker by letter [Adis.]
• James Jordan by letter [ADist.]
• Prudance Jordan by letter [Adead]
• Thos. C. Denson by letter
• Polly Denson do [Adead]
• John Grigesby. do [Adead]
• Louisa Grigsby do [Adead]
• Stephen Bennett do [ADead]
• Harriet Bennett do. [Adead]
• Permelia Bennett do [ADead]
• Mary Bennett do. [Adead]
• John Gregg do [Adead Nov 1840]
• Armsted Bennett do [Aded.]
• Faith Bennett [Adead]
• Thos. Lagow do [Adead]
• Sary Lagow do. [Adead]
• Elizibeth Frost do. [Adist]
• Ruth Morgan do. [Adis.]
• William Brittin do. [Adis]
• Jeremiah J. White do. [Adis.]
• Rosanna Brittin do. [Adis.]
• Samuel Little do. [Adis.]
• Sarah Little do. [Adis.]
• Eli Bowen do. [Adis.]
• Marian Bowen do. [Adis.]
• Isaac Ranfro, experience [Adis]
• Sophie Thompson, letter [Adis]
• Mary Holway do. [ADead]
• Robert Davidson. Rec by letter [Adead]
• Rebecca Davidson, by letter [ADis]
• Stephn Crist, by letter [Adist.]
• Anney Crist. by letter [Adist.]
• Garrison Greenwood by letter [Adis]
• Richard Eaton by letter [ADead]
• Polly Eaton by letter [Adead]
• Nancy Foulkinbery by letter [Adist]
• Elizebeth Eaton by letter [ADis]
• Oliver Morris, by letter [ADism.]
• Robert A. Love, by Relation [ADead.]
• Sylpha Ranfro, letter, [Adis.]
• Richard T. Gipson do. [Adis.]
• Elizibeth Redgway do. [Adismd.]
• William Harris do. [Adismissed]
• Annah Harris do. [Adismst.]
• Mary Brooks do. [ADismsed.]
• John Wilkinson do. [Adis.]
• Susanah Wilkinson do. [Adis.]
• Nathanuil Morgan do. [Adis.]
• Winney Morgan do. [Adis.]
• Thomas Star do. [Adis.]
• Pheby Hassell do. [Adis.]
• Saley Hassell, do. [Adis.]
• Emmeley Redman, do. [Adis.]
• Thomas. (Blackman) do. [Adis.]
• Hannah. (Blackwoman) by experience. [Adiss.]
• John B. Roberts, by letter [Adis.]
• Luke Johnson. do. [Adead]
• Amanda Johnson do [Adis]
• Mary Blair do. [Adead]
• Nat a Blackman do. [AExcluded.]
• Isaac H. Pate. experience [Aexcluded]
• Lemuel Cook, by letter [Adis.]
• Benjamin Eaton do. [Adis]
• Malinda Eaton do [Adis]
• Wm. H. Worren do. [Adis]
• Isabella Worren do. [Adis]
• Joseph Crawford by experience [ADead]
• Rebeca Pate by letter [Adismissed]
• John A. Allison by Relation [Aexclded]
• Thomas Lenards by letter [Adis]
• Sarah Lenards Do. [Adis]
• Fredrick Blanchard by exprenc [Adis]
• Delpha Blanchard do. [Adis]
• Reubin Brown. do [ADead, (1859)]
• Hannah Stoe by letter [ADismissed]
• Sarah Ellen Eaton, by ex[p]erence [Adis]
• Marcus P. Mead by experience [Adead]
• Elizabeth Mead do. [Adead 1858]
• James W. Parker by Letter [Aexcluded]
• Samuel Little do. [Adead]
• Sarah Little do. by letter. [Adis]
• Elizabeth Little do. [Adead]
• Easter A Colared Woman by Recom. [Aded.]
• Charles Huffman by Letter [Aexcluded]
• Marthy Huffman do [Adead]
• Joseph kennedy by Recom [Adead]
• Abigail Kennedy by Recom [Adead]
• Samuel Stuart by letter [Adead]
• Jane Stuart [Aexclud]
• Jasper Starr exsperen [Aexcluded]
• John L Melford do [Adis]
• Joel Stow do [ADismissed]
• Qually a Collored Man by Recm. [AExcluded]
• Robert M Garret by letter [AExcluded]
• Emely Garret do [Adead]
• Thomas W Brooks by recom [AExcluded]
• Charles Barrett by letter [A ⁵Restord Dis by letter]
• Eliza Brooks by exsperienc [ADismissed]
• George Sherwood, by Recom, [AExcl]
• Thomas Graham by Letter [Adismiss by Letter]
• Jane E. Graham by Letter [Adismiss by Letter]
• Edy Black. by Reco. [ADead]
• Laura Bennett by Ex.
• Mary Owens by Ex. [ADead]
• Miles Bennett by Ex. [ADead]
• Penelope Hynsley by Ex. [ADead]
• Littleton Helm, by Letter [ADead]
• Mary Helm by Letter [Adead]
• William Lago by Exper [ADismissed]
• John D. Mathews by Letter [ADis by letter Received back by same letter Dismissed]
• 1859
• Dead 1-11 ⁶
• Dismiss by letter 1
• Excluded, 1
• Received by Letter, 11
• Recom 1
• 1860
• dismiss by Letter 2
• Dead 111
• Re by letter 111
• by Recom 1
• Re by Exp 11
• Richard Moor by letter [ADis]
• Mary Moor by Letter [ADis]
• Mary B. McKinney by Recom [Adismissed by letter]
• Js W Stallcup by Exp [ADead]
• J. M Stallcup by Exp [ADismissed]
• Wm Heaton by Letter [ADead]
• S. M. Mathews by Letter [ADismissed by letter]
• Levisa Mathews by Letter
• B. O. Hendrix by Recom [ADead]

Saturday April 5th 1834. The church met and in order proseded to buseness. G. Greenwood, Clerk Protem.

(1st.).

Received Bro. Isaac Parker, and sisters, Lucy W. Parker and Lucy Parker, ⁷ by letters.

(2d).

Took up the refernce from last meeting respecting Deacons. and the church being informed that Brethren, Isaac Parker and Stephen Crist has heretofore been Called and ordained to the office of Deacons, proseded to Call them to serve her in that work.

(3d.).

The Committee appointed last meeting, to examen, and arrange the Church Book, Presented it, as correctly arranged, and the church appointed Brethren Isaac Parker, and Stephen Crist to exammon the order and arrangement of the Book, and report thereon, at next meeting.

(4th).

Bro. Davidson. (the former Clerk) living at such a distance, that he cannot serve the Church in that Capasety, The church proseded to appoint, Bro. Isaac Parker Clerk of this Church.

(5th.).

The Church agrees to attend to the Lords supper at her June meeting, on Sunday, and to attend to fasting and prayr on the friday before.

6th.

Elder Daniel Parker reseigns his office as Moderator and the Church refers the answer upon the reception thereof, until next meeting Ajourned

Saturday May 3d. 1834 The Church met and in order proseded to buseness

1st.

The Committee apointed to Examon the Church Book being unprepared to report were continued until next meeting.

2d.

The Church receves the resignation of E[l]der D. Parker as moderator, and proseds to appoint him moderator Prom. [pro tem.]

3d.

Elder D. Parker presents certain quarys for investigation, and the Church pospones her Voise on the reception thereof until next meeting. Ajourned

Saturday may 31st 1834. The Church met and in order Proseded to business. Elder D. Parker moderator Protem.

1st.

Received, James Jordain and Prudence Jordain his wife by letters.

2d.

Committee appointed to examon the Church Book reported it as being correctly arranged, which was received

3d.

Agreed to take up for investigation, the quearies presented bv Elder D. Parker at last meeting, to be attended to at any time the Church may think it best. The queres are as follows. (Ferst) Is or is not the Church an Ecliseastical Power, with her offices, and officers, Possesing legal authorety as a people, nation or Kingdom, to regulate and Place her several officer[s] in their Proper work, as directed by Precept or Example in the Scripturs of truth? 2d. Dose or dose not there appeare to be three works or offices in the Church nessesary to be filled for her benefit, and the Glory of God, That of the ministray, [that] Of government and that of the work of a deacon? 3d. If these three offices be found in the Church: how are they filled and how are the several workes to be devided between the several officers and what is each mans work?

4th.

The Church being informed that Brother James Jordain has been ordained to, and served in, the office or work of a deacon proseded to call him to assist in that work. Ajourned.

By reason of sickness, The Church being prevented from meeting together untill Saturday, Sepr. 6th. 1834 at which time she met and proseded to business

1st. (Elder D. Parker moderator protem) To receive Brother Oliver Morris by letter, and Brother Robert A. Love by recommendation, or relation The Church being satisfactorly informed that said Brother was a member in order, in the grand Prarie Church Crawford County Illinois, and that he had made reasonable arrangements to obtain his letter, which had failed to reach him. Ajourned.

Saturday October 4th 1834 The Church met and in order proseded to business (Elder G. Greenwood Mor. Protem)

1st. Whereas it appears that the members of this Church is about to scater into different parts, The Clerke is therefore instructed to give up the Church Book to the largest body of members, who are likely to settle conveniant, so as to keep up their church meetings, and so preserve the existence of the Church in this wilderness Country to the Glory of God. Ajourned

Saturday Novr. 15th 1834. (Calld. meeting) The Church met and in order Proseded. (G. Greenwood Moderator Protem)

1st. Granted Brother Oliver Morris a letter of dismission, and ordered the Clerk to prepare and furnish him with the same  Ajourned

Saturday July 4th 1835. After an Elapse of time from the 15th of November 1834 to the present. According to a preveous notise or arrangement, the following named Brethren and sisters (Viz) Garroson Greenwood Daniel Parker Joseph Jorden, Stephen Crist and John Parker (Sisters) Patsey Parker Anney Crist Salley Brown and Pheby Mills (formerly Pheby Parker) Met at the House of Elder Daniel Parkers in Burnets Grant Juresdiction of Nacogdoches Texas. Being in possession of the Church Book by consent of the Clerk, upon Examonation Consider themselves, Leagerly and properlay the Pilgrim predistinarean Regular Baptist Church and therefore proseded to business. Elder G. Greenwood moderator Protem. and D. Parker Clerk Protem.

1st.

Agreed that our next meeting be at the same house on the Saturday before the first Sunday in August next

2d.

The Church proseded to clothe Elders G. Greenwood and D. Parker or Either of them and the Decons of this Church to assist in Constitute ⁸ Churches and ordain[ing] officers therein; if Called on and they think it advisable to do so Ajourned

Saturday August 1st. 1835 The Church met and in order proseded to business G. Greenwood Moderator Prom. and D. Parker Clerk Prom.

1st. The Church agrees that her next meeting be held at the same Place the Saturday before the first Sunday in September next Ajorned

Saturday September 5th 1835 the Church met and in order proseded to business G. Greenwood moderator prm. and D. Parker Clerk Prm.

1st.

Received Bro. Thomas C. Denson and his wife Sister Polley Denson, By Relation, They informing us, that they were members of Little Hope Church in the State of Illinois a member of the Illinois association which Church had fallen into such Disorder and Confusion, that they thought that Letters of Dismision would be of no wourth to them

2d.

The Church agrees that her mext meeting be at the same place the Saturday before the first Sunday in October next, Ajorned. D. Parker Clk.

Saturday October 3d 1835. The Church met and in order proseded to business. D. Parker Mor. Protem. and G. Greenwood Clerk Prom.

1st. Agreed that the Church still hold her meetings on the Saturday before the first Sunday in each month, and to be continued at the house of Elder D. Parker until she thinks it best to move it from there. And appoints Elder G. Greenwood Moderator of this Church and autherrises and requires him to Call A Special meeting of the Church whenever he may think that Circumstances and Duty requires it. (Ajorned) G. Greenwood Clk.

Saturday January 2d 1836 The Church met and in order opened to business, John Parker Clerk Protem. There being no business. Ajorned.

Saturday Feburary 6th 1836 The Church met and in order proseded to business D. Parker Mor. Prom. and T. C. Denson Clerk Prom.

1st. Received the following named brethren and sisters by letters. John Gregesby Eliza Gregsby, Stephen Bennett, Harriet Bennett, Permelia Bennett, Mary Bennett John Gregg.  Ajorned

Saturday March 5th. 1836 The Church met and in order proseded to business. D. Parker Mo. Protem and John Grigsby Clerk Protem

1st.

Received Bro. Armsterd Bennitt and Sister Faith Bennett his wife by letters

2d.

Bro. Denson complained against himself for having dishonered the cause of Christ by drinking too much spirits at the election on the first day of February last and acting wrong. For which he made satisfactory acknowledgements Ajorned

Saturday 2d of April 1836 The Church met, and in order proseded to business D. Parker Mo. Pro. and Jessee Denson Cl. Pro.

1st. Whereas it appears that the members of this church are like to scatter by reason of the appearant danger and unsetted state of the country, and may not agane meet at thier reagular meeting. Therefore it is agreed by this Church that should such an event take place, the majority of the members united at this Place removing or remaining are entiteled to the Constitution and Church Book. Provided there be a prospect of their keeping up the Church order, if not the body of brethren who are [have] best prospect of sustaining the Church are entiteled to the Constitution and Church Book. Ajourned.

In consequence of the war in the countrey and the appearance of surrounding dangers, The members composing the Pilgrim Church etc became so scatered, that they failed to meet in a church capasety, until saturday the 25th of Feburary 1837. at which time the following named members met or was Present at the House of Elder D. Parkers their former place of worship, (now to be designated In the County of Nacogdoches and Republic of Texas, according to the new arrangemint in governmental affars) (Viz) Richard Eaton, Armstead Binnett, Stephen Bennett, John Grigesby Daniel Parker, John Parker, Faith Bennett, Mary Bennett, Harriet Bennett, Permelia Bennett, Polley Eaton, Elizebeth Eaton (now Elizebeth Welch) Rachel Eaton and Patsey Parker and in counsel Proseded, D. Parker Mor. Prot. and John Grigsby Clerk Prom.

1st.

Agreed that inasmuch as they were in possession of the Church Book, and Constitution and the prospect of the additional strength of Elder G. Greenwood, Thos. C. Denson, Polley Denson, Louisa Grigsby and Salley Brown, all, who now resides in reach, Agreed to revive thier Church meetings, at the same time and Place as formeley.

2d.

Directed the Clerk to prepare the minutes of this days prosedings, for the Examonation of the Church at her next meeting. Ajorned.

Saturday, March. 4th 1837. The Church met and proseded to business. G. Greenwood Mor.

1st.

Received Sister Elizebeth Frost. by letter

2d.

Appointed Bro. John Grigesby, The Standing Clerk of the Church inasmuch as the former Clerk is not in rech to attend to the business of the Church.

3d.

Read and approved of the minites and prosedings of the spicial meeting of the Brethren on last Saturday. Ferbuary, 25th. 1837— Ajorned

Saturday, April, 1st. 1837 The Church met and proseded E. D. Parker Mor. Pro.

1st.

Received Bro. Thos. Lagow. and his wife sister Salley Lagow by letter.

2d.

Elder G. Greenwood having removed out of the bounds of the Church, The Church proseded to appoint Elder Danier Parker her standing moderator Ajorned

Saturday May 6th 1837 The Church met and in order proseded to business. Richard Eaton Clerk Prom.

1st Received Sister Cockrum, (formely Polley Welch) By letter.  Ajorned

Saturday June 3d 1837. The church met and in order opened to business. (Armsterd A. Bennett Clerk Prom.) There being no business before her Ajorned

Saturday 1st. of July 1837 The Church met, and in order opened to business, but there being no business before her.  Ajourned

Saturday August. 5th 1837 The Church met, and in order opened to business, and there being nothing before her. Ajorned

Saturday September, 2d 1837 The Church and in order proseded to business

1st.

Brother Richard Eaton having heretofore been ordained to the office, or work of a Deacon Therefore this Church Calls on him to officiate in that office, in her service.

2d.

The Church agrees that her next meeting in Corse be a communion season, and that the friday before be a day of fasting and Prayr.

3d.

Agreed. That as the Scatured Situation of the members of the regular Baptist Faith and order in Texas, are such, that the Common and more proper corse of order, cannot reasonably be attended to in constituting Churches etc and beleiving that Church authority is indispenable in all such work Therefore. Elders Daniel Parker, and Garrison Greenwood, are hereby autherised by the authority of this Church, Either or both of them, to Constitute Churches under or on the regular Baptist Faith and order, ordain Preachers and deacons to their several works, Calling to their assistince all the helps in counsel, in their reach, acting perticularly cautious in all their works, and Report to this Church, all and whatever work, they may perform, under this authority, from time to time, as Cercumstances may permit and require.  Ajorned.

Saturday September 30th 1837 The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st. Elder Daniel Parker, Reported, That on the Seventeenth day of September 1837, He exercised the authority vested in him by this Church In Constituting a Church. Said Church is Constituted on the East side of the Angeleney river in Brother Cook.s settlement. On Eight members five mailes and three feemails, one Deacon Wm. Sparks and on the same articals of Faith that this Church is constituted, acknowledging her relationship to and with said Pilgrim Church of Regular Predistinaran Baptist.  Daniel Parker, M. O.

Which report was received by the Church and there being no other business. Ajorned.

Saturday December 2d 1837 The Church meet and in order opened for business and There being no business before her  Ajorned

Saturday January the 6th 1838 The Church met and in order opened for business and there being no business before her  Ajourned

Saturday march 31st 1838. The Church met and in order opened for business and there being no business, Ajorned

Saturday June 30th 1838. The Church met and in order proseded to business

First. Agreed, That whareas, the members of this Church has become so scatred that they all cannot reasonably meet together at one time and place, and there being no church or churches convenient, with which they can unite, Therefore, The Church agrees to hold two stated Church meetings, or times and places of Public worship in Each month, one at the time and Place heretofore established, The other to be held at the School House in Lathoms and Pearpoints Settlement in Shelby County Republic of Texas, on the second Lord.s day, and day before it, in each month, or such other times and Places, that the members living easterdly may find most convenient to them, and they are requested and Directed to appoint a Clerk amongst themselves, as an assistant clerk to the clerk who serves the Church at this place. The said assistint clerk shall keep a fare record of all the transactions of the Church when acting in his bounds and transmit a Copy of the same to the Principal Clerk officiating at this Place from time to time as opertunity may permit, at lest every twelve monthes, who shall report the same to the Church at this place and record the same in the Principal Church Book. Done at our meeting of business the day and Date above written. Ajorned  John Grigesby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday July 28th. 1838. The Pilgrim Church of Predistinarin Regular Baptist met at the School-House near Mr. Pierpints, Shelby County Republic of Texas. In conformity with an order of the Church entered on the 30th day of June 1838, and in order Proseded to business. (Elder Daniel Parker standing Moderator)

1st.

appointed Elder Garrison Greenwood, Clerk Protem.

2d.

Received Sister Ruth Morgan by letter into the union and fellowship of this Church—

3d.

The Church agrees to Continue her meetings at this Place, and that the Second Sunday and day preseding in each month be the times of holding the same. Ajorned  Garrison Greenwood, Cl. Pro. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday September 8th 1838 the Church met and in order proseded to business Brother John Parker apointed Clerk Protem.

1st. Received by letters Brethren William Brittin, Jerimiah White and Sister Rosanna Brittin Ajorned

Saturday October 13th 1838. The Church met and opened to bussiness, Elder G. Greenwood, Clerk Protem. There being no business, Ajorned

Saturday November, 9th 1838. The Church met, Bro. John Parker Clerk Prothem. There Being no business Ajorned

Saturday December 8th 1838. The Church met in order, appointed Bro. John Parker Clerk Protem, and proseded.

1st.

Agreed: That, Whereas, The Church agreed, at the J.une meeting 1838 That she would hold two church meetings in each month and one of them to be held at this place (School House Lathem.s Settelment Shelby County Texas) or where the members in reach of this Place may think most convenient for them and that a clerk should be apointed to serve the church at her meetings in this settelment, as an assistant Clerk to the Principle Clerk of the Church. Whose duty it should be to make returnes of the prosedings of the Church at this Place to the principle Clerk of the Church, as oft as opertunity would permit at lest every twelve monthes, and it was made the duty of the principle clerk to report the same to the Church at her former regular Place of holding the Church meetings (Houston County Texas) and record the same in order in the Church Book, And it now appering that the Indian wars, and Difficuilties are like to deprive the Church of her holding her church meetings at her former times and Place in Houston County Texas, and that a number of the Brethren by reson of those Indian diffculties has moved and are setting convenient to the Church meeting held at this Place, and amongst those Brethren are Bro. John Grigsbey the Principle Clerk of the Church, These cercumstances preventing the assistant Clerk from making returns as Contemplated and Brother John Grigesbey being the Proper and rightfull Clerk of the Church, Therefore Brother John Parker the Clerk protem, at this Place, is hereby instructed to give up the church book and Papers to Bro. Grigesbey, and he the said Grigesbey is requested to officiate in his office and serve the Church at this Place as Clerk, and place the proseding of the Church at this Place in order on the Church Book, (it being in our Possession)

2d.

The Church took under consideration the duty of attending to the Lord.s Supper, and lays over the Conclusion and arrangements for the same until next meeting.  John Parker C. Pt. Daniel Parker Mo.

N. B. The Church not having done any business at her former Place of worship sence she agreed to hold two Church meetings each month, it was thought Proper to spread the Proseding of the Church at this Place on the Church Book as they were trasacted  J. P. C. D. P. M.

Saturday January 12th 1839. The Church met and in order Proseded to business

1st.

Received Brother Samuel Little and Sister Sary Little, by Letters

2d.

The Church agrees that her next meeting be at the House of Elder D. Parker, and that she attend to the Lord.s Supper at that time and that friday preseding be a day of fast and humiliation.

3d.

The Church examoned and approved of the order in which the Clerk had arranged the Church Book Ajorned  John Grigsby Clerk D. Parker Mo.

Saturday Feby. 19th 1839. The Church met and in order proseded

1st.

Agreed That her next meeting be held at the same Place (Elder D. Parkers)

2nd.

The Church being informed by Elders. Parker, and Britton That their was Scattering Brethren something like eight miles East of San Augesteen who wisshed to come into Church order, Agreed to and appointed Elders William Britton and Daniel Parker, and Brethren John Grigesby and Jeremiah White with as many of the Brethren as can attend, To meet and act as a Committee at the house of Doc. Thompson.s on the forth Lord.s day, and day before it in this month, There to sit and act by the authority and in the name of this Church in opening a door for, and receiving members into the order and fellowship of this Church, in any orderly way by which members are received intitled to the rights Previledges and fellowship of the Church. Ajorned  John Grigesby Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday March 9th 1839. The Church met and in order proseded to business. Brother John Parker Clerk Protem.

1st.

Received Brother Eli. Bowen, and Sister Marian Bowen By letters.

2d.

The Committee appointed to sit in the name, and act by the authoritey of this Church, at Doc. Thompsons east of San Augusteen, on the forth Lordes day and day before in the Past month, Reported, That by reason of the flood of Rain, they were Prevented from attending and doing the duties assegned them. and the Church agrees to Continue said Committee, with instructions to attend the forth Saturday and Sunday in the Present month, or so soon thereafter as oppertunity may permit, at the said Thompsons and perform the work asseigned them, That any three or fore of the Brethren are autherised to act, and are required to Report their Prosedings, and acts to the Church, the next meeting after their action.

3d.

The Church appoints her next meeting to be at the School House, her former Place of worship. Ajorned  J. Parker Cl. Prt. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday, April, 13th 1839. The Church met and in order proseded to business

1st.

The Committee appointed to sit at Dr. Thompsons East of San Augusteen to receive members, made the following Report.

This is to inform the Church, That, We, Jeremiah White, John Grigsby, and Elders William Britten and Daniel Parker, Met, according to appointment, at the House of Dr. Thompsons on Saturday the 23d of march 1839, about eight miles east of San Augusteen, and in order opened a door for the reception of members, and Received Bro. Isaac Ranfrow by Experience, and Sisters Sophiah Thompson and Mary Holaway by letters, Sister Holaway informed us of the existence and loss of her letter. We relied on the information and received her. On Sunday the 24th of March 1839 Elder Parker Baptised Bro. Ranfrow Your Committee Think, there is a prospect of good being Done, By Continuing the Power and actions of your Committe in that Settlement Therefore Recommend that the Church should do so.  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

2d.

The Church Recieved the Report of the Committee and Continues the Power and action of said Committee, In the settlement of said Dr. Thompsons and ads Elder Greenwood to said Committee with the members in that Settlement—

3d.

The Church agrees to continue her meetings at this Place

4th.

Elder Greenwood laid in the following query which was taken up for investigation.

Query. Is it good order, To invite to full Priveledges with us, Members of the Baptist order who hold letters of Dismission, and have failed to give up said letters, to some orderly sound Baptist Church?

Answer. It is not order to invite such Brethren to seets and Privileges in the Church Yet Traveling Brethren may be invited to Church Priviledges, (Except Voting) by giving satisfactory evidence of their good order and stand. in the sound ordely Baptist Connection Ajorned.  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday may 11th 1839. The Church met and in order Proseded to Business

1st.

The Committee appointed to attend at Dr. Thompsons and open a door for the Reception of members mad the following Report.

Your Committee met according to appointment at the House of Dr. Thompsons April 27th 1839 and acting in conjunction with the members of this Church in that settlement, siting in order Received Sister Sylpha Ranfrow into this Church by relation. Your Committee Recommends the continuation of the Power and action of said Committee in that settlement.  John Gribsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

2d.

Received The Report of the said Committee, and agrees to continue the Power and action of said Committee in the Settlement of said Dr. Thopsons at any time and Place said Committee may think most advantageous.

3d.

Being informed by Elder Daniel Parker of the disorder and Difficuilties the Church at Hopewell west of Nacogdoches are falling into, agreed to wright to her, and Elders D. Parker and G. Greenwood Bare said letter, and do and act for this church, all the business in which she is concerned with said Sister Church Both or either of them is autherised to act. A copey of said letter is annexed to the minutes of this days proseding, which shows the causes which produces the Dificuilties etc.

4th.

The Church takes under consideration the propriety of Building a meeting House and agreeing that she will try to do so. Appointed E. Bowen D. Parker and J. White to select a place where said meeting House shall be Built and report at next meeting. Ajorned  John Grigsby Cl. D. Parker Mo

A Copey of the letter sent to the Church west of Nacogdoches.

Shelby County, Republic of Texas.

The Pilgrim Church of the Predistinarian Regular Baptist Faith and order

To her sister Church at Hopewell meeting House, Nacogdoches County Republic of Texas, of the same faith and order

Send the Christian Salutation

---

Beloved Brethren

We lern that, there be some who troble you, and are like to bring you into disorder, corrupting you both in faith and Practice, We alude to Elder Bryant together with the members composing what is called a church, in Sparkes.s Settlement north of Nacogdoches. We much regreet, That Elder Bryant and the members with whoom he stands connected ware not sound in faith and in order as a Church. That they mite be Profitable to you and us, in the gospell of Christ. But from what we lern they are of the Seperate Baptist faith, with whom we have no connection, and as to their Church Capasaty, we consider them in disorder (first) Becous they were constituted by an unoutherised Presbytary, 2d The Reception of Elder Bryant, we think ware not done in good order. 3d. The Church called on Elder Bryant to administer the gospel ordinances for her, without restoring him to the ministeral function in a gospel or legal way, Which leave all the members Baptised by him in disorder— Dear Brethren should these facts exist, as we lern they do, We warn you aganst thim as a disordely unsound People, with whoom we should have nothing to do, in a religious or Church capasaty. When they become sound in the faith and corrects their Disorders, Then and not tel then can we hold Christian union and fellowship with them, without partaking of their Disorder and Biding them god.s speed in their unsound Disordely corse.—Beloved Brethren, from us you received your existence and Power as a Church, Therefore we clame Christian union and relationship with you, and a right to call on you to adhere to the faith upon which you were constituted, and united without deviation, and to correct any disorder that may be amoungst you and we will not exchange truth and gospel order for the flattery, errows, and friendship, of any man or People on Earth, and when ever you change or alter even one Itom of the articals of faith upon which you were constituted, you no longer exist as a church, by the authority which constituted you,—To bare this, and to transeact any business on our Part with you, We have sent our Beloved Brethern Daniel Parker, and Garrison Greenwood, Both or Either of them to act—Whom we hope you will receive as an expretion of our Christian love to you. May the grace, and Spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your Spirits and guide you into all truth, Is the Prayr of of your Sister in Christ. done at our meeting of business, May 11th 1839 and signed by order of the Church—  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker, Mo.

Saturday June 8th 1839 The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

The Committee appointed and autherised to set and act by the authority and in the name of this Church, for the Reception of members, in the Settlement of Dr. Thompsons etc made the following report

Thatt they sat in order in conjuction with the members of this Church residing in said settlement at a new meeting House nere Docter Thompsons. on Saturday the 25th of May 1839, and received Brother Richard T. Gibson by letter This Brother is certified to have been a deacon in the church, and authorised to exercise a Public Gift On Sunday May 26th Received Sister Elizebeth Ridgway Brother William Harris and his wife Sister Annah Harris by letters. Your Committee Recommed, That the members of this Church residing in reach so as to meet at the meeting House in Dor. Thompson Settlement San Augusteen County When having the assistence of Elder G. Greenwood, Wm. Brittin or D. Parker either of them with as many more of the members of this church as may be present, Be authorized to act as an arm of this Church, To appoint a Clerk amongst themselves attend to all the Rules of decorum, Receive members. When charges are taken aganst members, or any other dificult matter may apper amongst them Call on the Body for helps etc. The Clerk to make report in full of all their prosedings by the Elder which may attend them, at lest every three monthes

John Grigsby Cl Daniel Parker Mo.

The Church Received, and approved of the Report of the Committee, and autherises as recomended That that Potion of members of this Church residing in reach of the meeting House in dr. Thompsons Settlement to act as an arm of this Church, as recommended by the Committee and the Clerk of this Church is hereby instructed to furnish said Brethren with a copey of those records and constitution with the rules of Decorum, of this Church

2d.

Elder Daniel Parker Reported, That he attended the Hopewell Church west of Nacogdoches, as directed, found the disorder as Represented, delivered the letter sent by this Church, Which appered to be attended with good consequences The Brethren immdiately ingaged in relieving themselves of the Disorders complained of, which gave him much satisfaction. The Church Received said Report with much satisfaction.

3d.

Brethren Eli Bowen and D. Parker, Reported That they had selected two Plases, and submits to the church to deside on which of the two Places she would Build her meeting House. The one on the Ridge between Mrs. Morgans and Wilburns, The other place on the Bloof ⁹ of the Harrison fork of Buyo Blue north side, nere Elder Parker's on a new Road leading from Hamilton to Shelbyville.

The Church desides by vote That the Place Selected on the [bluff] nere Elder Parker.s be the place on which she will Build her meeting House, and appoints Brethren Richard Eaton Wm Britten and Daniel Parker as a Committee to obtain a bond for right to the land, and Superentend the Building of the meeting House with the sise and manner in which it shall be Built.  ajorned  John Grigby Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday July 13th 1839. The Church met and in order Proseded to business—

1st. The Committee appointed to superintind the Business of the meeting House, (to obtain a bond for titles etc Reported a Bond for Titles for two acre and a half of land Executed by John Haley, for the use of the Regular Baptist Church as a Place of Public Worship, and a public Burying ground Which Bond was directed by the Church, to be handed to Brother Richard Eaton, as the Deacon of this Church, to which office in the Church, the Bond was executed.  Ajornd  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday October 12th 1839. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

Agreed that Brother John Grigesby he aded to the Committe appointed to superentend the building of the meeting house.

2d.

Recieved a report, by the hands of Elders Wm. Britten and D. Parker, from the arm of this Church, at Dr. S. Thompson.s meeting House, as a copey of their Record prosedings, which was recieved, and ordered to be annexed to the minutes of this days Proseding. (Viz)

San Augusteen County Republic of Texa. The arm of the Predistinarian Pilgrim Church of the Regular Baptist faith and order at Dr. Thompson.s Meeting House. To the said Church to whom she belongs and stands accountable Beloved Brethren according to instruction We make the following Report of our Prosedings

Saturday the 22d. day of June 1839, Elder Daniel Parker and Brother John Grigesby, together with several of the Brethren in reach of Dr S. Thompson.s meeting house San Augusteen County Republic of Texas met at said meeting house, and in order proseded to business. Elder D. Parker Mo. and Bro. John Grigsby Cl. Protem.

1st. A Copey of the Records of the Church to which we are members, The articals of faith and rules of Decorum (which are hereunto anexed) were Presented by Elder Daniel Parker and by the Copey of said Records, we lern that, we, the members of said Church in reach so as to meet at the meeting house in Dr. Thompsons settlement, are under serten restrictions, as said records will show, set apart and authorized to act, as an arm of the Church Which liberty and authority we willingly accept of and through grace, will try to exercise to the glory of god and good of Zion  Ajorned  John Grigsby Cl. Pro. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday July 27th 1839. The arm of the Pilgrim Church of Regular Baptist etc met at Dr. S. Thompson.s meeting house, and in order proseded to business Elder Parker Mo.

1st.

Appointed Brother Isaac Ranfrow Clerk of this arm of the Church

2d.

Received Sister Mary Brooks by letter Ajorned  Isaac Ranfrow Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday August 24th 1839. The arm of the Church met at Dr S. Thompson.s meeting house, and in order opened for Business and there being nothing before her Ajorned.  Isaac Ranfrow Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday Sepr. 21st 1839. The arm of the Church met and in order Proseded to business.

1st. Agreed to send a Copey of our Prosedings to the church to which we are members, as we are instructed to do, and Elders Wm. Britten and D. Parker bare the same Ajorned  Isaac Ranfrow Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday Novr. the 9th, 1839. The Church met and in order opene[d] for business, by appointing Elder Wm. Britten Mo. Protem and Bro. John Parker Clerk Pro. and there being no business Ajorned

Saturday Desember the 7th 1839. The Church met and in order opened for business by appointing Elder Greenwood Mo. Pro.

First The Church agreed to hold her meeting in future at her new meeting House nere Elder Parker.s Ajorned

Saturday January 11th 1840. The Church met and appointed Elder Britten Mo. Pro. and Bro. John Parker Clerk Pro. and in order opened for business and there being none before her  Ajorned

Saturday February 8th 1840. The Church met and in order opened for Business.

First, Elder D. Parker Presented the following Report from the arm of this Church which was received.

San Augustteen County Republic of Texas  January 25th 1840.

The arm of the Pilgrim Church of the Regular Baptist at Dr S. Thompsons meeting House To the Pilgrim Church etc of whoom she is a part Beloved in accordence with our duty in what you have required of us, We herewith transmit to you by the hands of Elder Daniel Parker and Brother John Grigsby a Copey of our Prosedings from the close of Proseding Reported to you in September last upto the Present date. (Viz)

Saturday October 26th 1839. The arm of the Church met at Dr. S. Thompson.s meeting Hous and in order opend to business. Elder Parker. Mo. and there being nothing before her  Ajorned

Saturday Desember 21st 1839 The arm of the church met at the same Place Elder D. Parker Mo. Elder Briten Present and there being no business before her Ajorned

Saturday, January 25 1840. The arm of the Church met at Dr S. Thompsons Meeting House and in order opened to business Elder D. Parker Mo. and Bro. John Grigsby Present with us

First The arm agreed to send by the hands of Brethren Parker and Grigsby, a Copey of the Prosedings of this arms to the Church of whom she is a Part Ajorned  Isaac Ranfro Cl. ¹⁰ D. Parker Mo

Saturday, March the 7th 1840. The Church met and in order Proseded to business

1st.

Received Brethren and Sisters by letters. (Viz) John Wilkenson and his wife Susanah, Nathanuel Morgan and his wife Winney Morgan and Thomas Starr

2d.

The Church agrees that at her next meeting she will on the Lord.s day, attend to the Communion at the Lord.s table, on the friday before, to fasting prayr and humiliation before the Lord, and on Saturday evening to the example of washing feet, at the House of Elder D. Parkers.  Ajorned.  John Grigsby Ch. Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday, Apriel the 11th 1840. The Church met and in order proseded to business Elder Wm. Britton Moderater Pro.

1st.

The Church agrees to lay over her Communion until her next meeting in corse.

2d.

Brother Isaac Parker from Houston County a member of this Church, made request, in behalf of himself and other Brethren and sisters of his Section of Country, That this Church clothe her ordained authorities, with legal Power and authoritey to Constitute them into a Church Capasety, in accord with the Regular Baptist Faith and order, and that in consequence of said Constitution taking Plase he requests letters of dismission for himself and his wife (Sister Lucy Parker) Both of said Requests are granted by the Church, and the ordained authoretis of this Church are herby atherised and required to Prosead as soon as they reasonably can, to comply with said requst in constituting said Brethren into a church Capsaty and regulating legal authorety amongst them, Calling to their aid in counsel all sound helps in the Cirkle of their power. (Provided, that upon Examination, they believe the glory of god, and good of Zion, will be the result of said constitution.) and report to this Church the result of their examenation with the whole of their Prosedings  Ajorned  John Grigsby Ch. Cl. Elder Wm. Britten Mo.

Saturday May 9th 1840. The Church met and in order Proseded to Business

1st.

received Sisters Pheby Hassell, Saley Hassell and Emiley Redman, By letters

2d.

The Church agrees, That, She having at her last meeting granted the Requsts of Brother Isaac Parker respecting the Constituting of a Church in Houston County or his section of Country, and the granting letters of dismissions to himself and his wife That Elders Wm. Britten, Daniel Parker, and Garrison Greenwood, with the Deacons of this Church, Be the helps appointed on the Part of this Church, to officiate in the work and they are hereby appointed to act in behalf and by the authority of this Church, in giving letters of dismision to Brother Isaac Parker and his wife and also to all of the members of this Church in Houston County that may request letters, Provided the Committee think that their orderly conduct and sound faith merrits letters, and should it so turn out that all the helps hereby appointed should fail to attend to the Call and work herein designated, except one of the Elders herein named, The said one Elder is hereby authorised to act, Calling to his aid in Counsel all the helps in the Cirkle of his Power, and to perform all the work heretofore designated, and Report the whole of their Prosedings and acts to this Church, for her inspection, and approbation or disapprobation, Brethren lettered by said Committee should the act be approved by the Church shall be recorded on the Church Book as Dismissed by letter, The Clerk of this Church is directed to furnish said helps and Committee with a copey of these Records.

3d.

The Church being informed by Elder Daniel Parker of the Proberable need of help by the authorety of this Church, in regulating disorder amongest the Brethren, of the regular Baptist faith and order, by constituting Churches in gospel order, and regulating matters and things therein, In several parts of this Republic, Particularly in the counties of Nacogdoches and Montgomery, Therefore Elders William Britten Garrison Greenwood, and Daniel Parker all of them collectively or either of them seperately, Be and there ¹¹ are hereby autherised by the authorety of this the Pilgrum Church of the Predistinarian Regular Baptist Faith and order, To do, and Perform all such matters and things, Presented to their view that they think the glory of god and good of his cause Church and People requires to be done, In constituting Churches, Regulating disorder in Churches, and in ordaining Deacons and Ministers of the gospell, etc calling to their aid all the helps in their Power, and make full returns to this Church of all their acts and doings for the examination and act of the Church

The Church is hereby directed to furnish the Brethren herein named with a copey of these records (Ajorned)  John Grigsby Ch. Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday, June 13th 1840. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st. A Black man by the name of Thom. Presented a letter to the Church of recommendation from his master Mr. Wm. J. Hamblitt, and informed the Church, That he was receved in to a Baptist Church at Barefeet meeting House, and was Baptised by Elder Luster, in the State of Tennessee, which some of the members of the Church knew, That he took a letter from that Church, and joined a Church in the western district Called Spring Hill Church, from which he took a letter, but from some cause, left his letter, and some of his close behind, with an expectation of getting them, but as yet has failed, The Church being satisfied, Received him into Fellowship, as by Relation, yet claimes the right to his letter should it come to hand Ajorned  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

No other Church meeting until Saturday, September 12th 1840 when the church met and in order opened to business.

1st. Elder D. Parker made the following Report from the arm of this Church

The arm of the Pilgrim Church at Dr. S. Thompson.s meeting House, San Augustien County, Texas To the Pilgrim Church of the Regular Baptist faith and order of whom we are an arm. Dear Brethren, By Elder Daniel Parker We transmit to you a copey of our Records up to the date therein shone.

There being no meeting with us in Feburary we begin with Saturday, March 21st 1840. The arm of the church met Elder Parker Present, There being no business Ajorned

Saturday April 25th, 1840. The arm of the Church met Elder Parker Psent. There being no business Ajorned

Saturday may 23d 1840. The arm of the Church met Elder Parker Present. There being no business Ajorned

Saturday June 27th 1840. The arm of the Church met Elder Britton Present

1st.

Brother W. D. Carrengton Presented a letter as Evidence of his right to fellowship in the Baptist Church, But as he was unsettled wished to retain his letter and come in with us, under our watch care, and he was accordingly received as one with us

Saturday July 25th 1840 The arm of the Church met in order Elder Parker Present. There being no business Ajorned

Saturday, August 22d 1840. The arm of the Church met. Elder Parker Present. There being no business Ajorned.

On Sunday, 23d, Received a Black woman by the name of Hannah by Experience, and Baptised her.  Isaac Ranfro Cl. Daniel Parker, Mo.

The Church Received the Report with advising the Brethren of the arm and the Elders of this Church not to Received members in to the Church upon the Credit of their letter who refuse to give up their letters to the church, as distress and disorder might attend such a corse of things.

2d.

Elder Daniel Parker made the following Report.

Dear Brethren In accordence with the duty enjoined on me and the authority invested in me by this Church (Being assisted by none of the other Brethren appointed by the Church) I proseded to Houston County, But did not constitute a Church there for reasons too tedious to mention. I prosed[ed] to Montgomery county, where I found a church with about 20 members of the sound Regular Baptist faith and order who had been constituted by the best authority in their reach some time in the year 1838. With Elder Allin Samuel their Pasture and after Preaching amongst them for several days thereby cultivating an acquaintence, Believing it to be to the glory of god and good of Zion, on the 11th day of July 1840 with the assistence of Brother Isaac Parker a deason of this Church and in complyance with the wish of them Brethren, I proseded to examon regulate and legallize the constitution of them Brethren as a church in union with us (with their acts and doings from the time they were constituted upon the articals of faith upon which they ware first constituted, finding those articals to be sound,—After which the church presented one of her members, Brother Ransom Allphin whom she had chosen to serve her as deacon, and called on Elder Samuel to form a part of the Presbytary Requsting Brother Allphin to be ordained to the work of a deacon, which after examonation we performed accordingly. This Church is known by the name of Mount Plesant Church of the Regular Baptist faith and order Your Humble Servant in Christian Love  Daniel Parker  Said Report was Receved and the work approved of.

3d.

The Church being informed by Elder Parker That the Brethren of Mount Pleasant Church were willing to meet us on the Saturday before the third Lord.s day in October next, at Hopewell Church Nacogdoches County for the purpose of forming an associated Compact, This Church agrees to meet said Brethren, By messengers and letter, and for that Purpose, appoints Elders G. Greenwood D. Parker W. Britton and Brethren Eli Bowen, John Grigsby and Richard Eaton autherising said Brethren to form a part of the convention in Constituting an association (if thought advisable) on the Regular Baptist faith and order (Refering said Constitution to the Churches for aproveal) and then set in an associated Capasety.

4th.

The Church having Knowledge That Brother Thos. Star has been approved and ordained to the work of a deacon, agrees and calls him to serve this Church in that Office, and that her next meeting be communion at the Lord.s table. Ajorned  John Grigsby Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday 10th of October 1840. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

Dismissed Brother William Harris and sister Annah Harris by letter.

2d.

Read and approved the letter to the messengers of the Church when met at Hopewell Church Nacogdoches County for the Purpose of organizing an association

3d.

Receved a letter from Brethren in Houston County requesting our ordained authority to Constitute them into a Church Capasety Which request was granted

4th.

The Church agrees, That the authoritys invested in Elders Greenwood, Brittain and Parker, or either of them by her acts at her may meeting 1840, be and the same is hereby continued, and extended to the liberty and right, By the authority of this Church, To give letters of dismission to the scatered members of this Church when oppertunety and Duty requires it to be done, also to receive members by exprerience and Baptise then when they think duty and circumstances requires it to be done. Calling to their aid all the Brethren of our faith and order in their reach. And make returns of all their acts and doings to this Church.  Ajorned

Saturday November 7th 1840. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

Elder Daniel Parker made the following Report

Dear Brethren. In accordence with the duty Enjoined on me by this Church and the authority which she has invested in me I did, with the assistence of Brethren John Grigsby Isaac Parker and Elder Allin Samuel in councel, Proceed on the 22d day of October 1840, to constitute a church in Fort Houston ¹² in Houston County—on the articals of Faith that this church is united on known by the name of the Regular Baptist Church at Fort Houston. and gave up fore members of this church to said constitution (Viz) Stephen Crist Annay Crist Naney Falkenbury and Elizebeth Frost as formeley, but now (Delap) and I have also given letters of Dismission to Brother James Jorden and sister Lucindy Parker with the assistince in Part of Elders Greenwood and Brittian. We also have organised an association and are Prepared to make a full report on that subject

Your humble servent in the gospel of Christ  Daniel Parker

2d.

The Church receid and approved of the foregoing Report and acknowledges the within named members of this Church to be legally dismissed

3d.

Receivd the Report of the Brethren respecting the organing an association, and after examoning the principles, and Plans upon which the Churches have agreed to unite approve of the same—

4th.

This Church autherizes Brother Eli Bowin to exersise his gift in the bounds of this Church, in that way which [he] feals or believes the Lord Requires of him Ajourned

Saturday, 12th of December 1840. The Church met and in order opened for business by appointing Brother Jeremiah F. White Clerk Protem. and there being no business before her Ajorned  J. F. White Cl. Pro. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday January 9th 1841. The Church met and in order proseded to business

1st.

Appointed Brother Thos. Star Clerk Protem.—

2d.

Recevd a letter from Scaterd Brethren in Sabine county Requsting the ordained authoritey of this Church to constitute them into a church Capasety. At the House of Tho. Harris on the Saturday before the first Sunday in Feburary next, as a day set apart by said Brethren for fasting and prayr on that solomn occation.— The Church agrees to compley with the Request, and clothes her ordained authorities with the authority and instructs them to attend and compley with the Request, Provided they find them Brethren ripe for constitution—And the said ordained authorities or that part of them that may attend are hereby autherised to give up any potion of the members of this Church to said Constitution that chose for conven[ien]cy to go into it and Report their Procedings to this Church

3d.

Elder D. Parker Reported that the arm of this church had done no business since her last Report to the Church except granting a letter of Dismission to Sister Elizabeth Ridgeway, and as most of the member[s] convenent to the arm had moved off, he recomended the Discontinuing of said arm—The Church recived said Report and Calls in the authority given to said arm.  Ajorned  Thos. Starr Cl. Pro. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday Feb. 13, 1841. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

As Brother Grigsby has moved out of the bound of the church at this place. The church appoints Brother Jer. F White clerk of the church at this Place.

2d.

Elders D. Parker and Wm. Brittain made the following Report which was Receivd and approved by the Church.

The undersigned in accordance with their duty makes this Report to the Church That by the authorety invested in them by this Church. They did at the ho[u]se of Brother Theo. Harris in Sabine County Republic of Texas on the 7th day of this month, Constitute and Organise a Church of the Regular Baptist faith and order upon the artical of faith upon which this Church stands constituted and gave up to said Constitution Brother R. T. Gibson as dismissed from this Church

Feb. 13th. 1841. Daniel Parker,  William Brittain

3d.

Elder D. Parker made the following Report, which was receivd and approved by the Church.

The undersigned in accordence with his duty Reports That by the authority invested in him by this Church, and at the Request of Hopewell Church in Nacogdoches County Republic of Texas, he did on the 15th or 16th day of January last ordain Brother Moses Waters (a member of said Church) to the office or work of a Deacon. Daniel Parker.  Feb. 13th. 1841.

4th.

At Request Granted Brother Samuel Little and his wife Sister Sarah Little letters of dismission. Ajorned  J. T. White. Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday March 13th, 1841. The Church met and in order opened for business, and there being no business before her—  Ajorned

Saturday April 10th. 1840. ¹³ The Church met and in order proseded to business, by appointing Brother Thos. Starr Clerk Pro.

1st. Agreed to attend to communion at the Lord.s table at next meeting, and that the friday before be set apart as a day of fast. and humiliation— Ajourd

Saturday May 8th. 1841. The Church met in oder, and there being no Business— Ajourned

Saturday June 12th. 1841. The Church met and in order by appointing Bro. Thos. Starr clerk Pro. tem, opened for business and there being none before her Adjourned

Saturday July 10th. 1841 The Church met and in order proseded to business by appointing Elder, Wm. Brittain Clerk Pro.

1st.

Recivd Brother John B. Roberts by letter, an ordained Minister.

2d.

Instructed the clerk to prepare a letter to the association to be Read and approved by the Church at her next meeting.

3d.

By Request letters of dismission granted to Sisters, Sophia Thompson, and Sylpha Renfrow. Adjourned.

Saturday August 7th 1841. The Church met and in order proseded to business.

1st.

Elder Daniel Parker, Presented the minutes of this church at her meeting in Houston county, Commencing the Saturday before the first Lord.s day in July 1841, which is spred on Record at the close of this day.s prosedings

2d.

The Church agrees, that as she, the Pilgrim Church is about to confine her church meetings to her times and Place of worship in Houston county, and there being a nomber of her members who reside in this part of the Country, that for their advantage in Church Previledges, That on the saturday before the first Lord.s day in September next, that she will Proseed to Constitute them into a Church Capasety, if then thought advisable, and that her sister Church at Bethel having at the Request of Elders D. Parker and Wm. Brittain, clothed her ordained authorities with legal Power to aid in said work. This Church approves of and ratifies the request for said helps and requests them to assist her in constituting a part of her members into a church capasaty, and appoints such of her ordained authorities as may not go into said constitution to officiate in the work.

3d.

The Church appoint the friday before the first Lord.s day in september next a day of fast and Prayr to the god of Zion for his divine aid and direction in the importent work she is entering into, and to attend to any church business nesessary to be done. On Saturday worship at ten oclock, attend to church business, and the Constitution and in the Evening, attend to the Example of washing feet, at the house of Elder Parker.s and on Sunday attend to the Lord.s supper.

4th.

Read and approved of the letter to the association, but agree[d] not to fill the blanks respecing the nomber of members until next meeting, appointed Elders Garrison Greenwood and Daniel Parker, and Brother John Parker messengers to the association and the Church at this Place Contributes five dollars for printing the minutes, making in all ten dollars.

5.

The Church Examoned and approved of a circular letter presented by Elder Parker, and Recommends to the association that it be attatched to the minutes— Adjourned  J. White C. L. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday 3d of July 1841. The Pilgrim Church of Regular Baptist[s], again met in Houston County at the House of Reubin Brown.s her former place of worship, and in order proseded to Business, with Elder Parker moderator and by appointing Brother Isaac Parker Clerk Pro.

1st.

Recevd Brother Luke Johnson and Sister Amanda Johnson by letters.

2d.

The church agrees to revive her Church meetings in Houston to be held at her former times of worship. The Saturday before the first Lord.s day in Each month and that the Place of meeting be at the House of Brother Armsted Bennett.s

3d.

The Church at this Place contrebuts five dollars for Prenting the minutes of the association, and Requests that the association in 1842 be held with her.

4th.

The Church appoints Brother Armtsed Bennett Clerk of the Church at this Place— Adjourned.  Isaac Parker Cl. Pro. D. Parker M. O.

Sunday July 4th, 1841. The Church in order Receved Sister Mary Blair by letter  A. Bennett, Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Friday September 3d 1841. The church met In Shelby county and in order proseded to business

1st Brother Thomas Star Exibeted the following charges against Brother A. B. ¹⁴—Sustained by Elder D. Parker. Brother A. B., Debter to Brother Thomas Star which he has failed to Pay or settle according to Promis or Contract

1st.

For one wagon and harness exept one Bridle which said Star lent to said A. B., about the last of September 1839 in the state of Illinois which wagon and harness was by Promis to have been delivered to said Star, here in Texas in Shelby County, which as yet has not been done. Said wagon and harness cost the said Star in cash $130.

2d.

Said Star Paid to Thos. J. McKee for said A. B., sometime in the fore part of the year 1840, seventy five dollars, of which the said Star has Recivd eight or ten dollars in halling etc. leaving a ballance due him of at lest—sixty five dollars and said Star Clames a reasonable Compensation for laying out of the use of his rights or Property.

Brother Star having labourd with Brother A. B. by letter and with the assistence of Elder D. Parker to some extent and having failed [to] reach his right, or obtain satisfacion, Exhibits the following charges against the said Brother A. B.

First For failing to deliver the wagon and ha[r]ness according to Promis, or to Pay him for them, and failling to Pay that which is due him for what he the said Star Paid Thos. J. McKee for said A. B.

Second For moving off, without comeing to a settlement and executing his note or obligation as requested by said Star, so that he might be secured in his rights—

The said Brother Star agrees, That if the said Brother A. B. will return his wagon and harness to him making them as good as they was when he let them go, with something nere what is right for the time he has laid out of the use of them, and Pay him the amount he is due on Thos J. McKee account, Or Come to a full and fair settlement and execute his note in a way to secure to him his right in a reasonable time, That it will give him satisfaction or he will be Reconsiled

Second. The Church at the requst of her sister Church at Fort Houston, Houston County, autherises the ordained authorities of this Church to assist her in ordaining, a member of her Body to the work of a Deacon.

3d.

Granted a letter of dismission to Sister Hannah a Black woman living in San Augusteen County  Adjourned  J. White Ch. Cl. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday September 4th 1841. The Church met and in order Proseded to business

1st.

Brother Isaac Ranfrow exhibited a char[g]e aganst himself for drinking too much spirits some time in the spring, past, and used some hash expretions to Mr. Sanson in san August. ¹⁵ and made satisfactory acknowledgement, so that the Church is Reconciled with him. and at his request a letter of dismission in full fellowship.

2.

The following named brethren and sisters agreed to, and was set apart to be constituted into a Church capasety (Viz) John B. Roberts, William Brittain, Thomas Star, Jeremiah F. White, John Wilkenson, Thomas a Black man, and Sister Rosanah Brittain, and subscribed their names to the articals of faith upon which this Church stand constituted.

3d.

Elders Asa. Wright and Robert Turner, ordained authorities from our sister the Bethel Church, having attended us with Church authority as requested by this Church, was Recevd by this Church in connection with Elder Daniel Parker, as a Presbytary to constitute the before named Brethren into a Church Capasety.

4th.

Autherrised Elder Daniel Parker as moderater of this Church to give letters of dismissions to members of this church in this settlements, if Requsted.

5.

The Presbytary agreed to Constitute the before named brethren and sister into a church Capasaty upon the before named articals of faith, and the church gave up said Brethren into the hands of the Presbytary for to be constituted into a church capassaty, and the presbytary proseded to perform the work, and said members was then dismissed from this church, and the Pilgrim Church stoped the prograce of her business and thus adjourned  J. F. White Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Sunday 5th Sepr. 1841 By request gave a letter of dismission to sister Susanah Wilkinson which is notised in the Pilgrim letter to the asso.  D. Parker M. O.

In accordence with the authority vested in me by the church at her meeting 4th. September In Shelby County 1841 I have given letters of dismission to Sisters Emiley Redmon and Saley Hassell. November 1st. 1841— Daniel Parker M. O.  Houston County Republic of Texas—

Saturday September the 4th 1841 The Church met at Brother Bennett.s Persuent to adjournment and in order Proseded to business by appointing Bro. Luke Johnson Moderator Protem.

1st.

Brother Armsted Bennett exhibited the following charges against Brother Thomas C. Denson—

First, for Profain language such as Cursing and swaring

Second. for justifying himself in so doing, and refusing or neglecting to attend the Church meetings, and give satisfaction for such transgrations, of Religious order

2d.

The Church took up the said charges, and appointed Brethren—A. Bennett, Isaac Parker, Thos. Lago, and Stephen Bennett, as a committee to wait on Brother Denson admonish him to his duty, and sight him to attend her next Church meeting.—

3d.

The Church being impressed with a Belief That the Public Gift in Brother Luke Johnson is of grate utility to the Church and Caus of Zion, She therefore liberates the said Brother, to exercise the gift that is in him whare Ever his lot may be cast in what ever way he may feal his mind Impressed, or believe duty directs.—Adjorned in Peace.  Armstead Bennett, C. l. Luke Johnson M. O. Pro.

Saturday October 2d, 1841 The Church met and in order proseded to business Elder Parker M. O.

1st.

Took up the Refference respeting Brother Thomas C. Denson. Brethren A. Bennet and Thos. Lago of the Committee appointed to wait on Brother Denson, Reported, that they had visited the Brother and labored with him as directed by the Church, and that he had given them no satisfaction, Respecting Coming to meeting or the Church, nor otherwise.

2d.

The Church Proseded to exclude Brother Thomas C. Denson from the fellowship and Preveledges of this Church upon the charges exibeted aganst him By Brethren A. Bennett and [Thos. Lago and] for neglecting to hear the Church.

3d.

Elder D. Parker Reported that he had assisted in ordination of Brother Joseph Pinson in our sister church at Fort Houston, to the work of a Deacon, as Requested by said Church, and directed and autherized by this the Pilgrim Church, which work is approved by this Church

4th.

Recd and approved of the letter to the association and appointed Elders G. Greenwood, and D. Parker and Brother A. Bennett to Bare the same and be our messengers to the association.

5th.

Whareas the members of this church Residing in Shelby county has in Part Returned back in reach of this place of worship and in Part gone into a constitution in that Part of the Country, Therefore This Church Calls in her monthly meetings formerly autherised to be holden in in Shelby County, with the Priveledges connected therewith.—

6th.

The Church takes into consideration the Propriety of Building a meeting House as a Place of divine worship and appoints Brethren Luke Johnson A. Bennett and Thos. Lago, as a Committee to look out and select the most sutable Place for that object and Report to next meeting—  Adjorned in Peace.  A. Bennett Ch. Cl. D. Parker M. O.

On the Lord.s Day Oct. 3d 1841 Recevd Bro. Not. a coloured man by letter of Recommendation from several of his Brethren certifying his ordelly standing etc.  A. Bennett Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday December the 4th 1841. The Church met and in order Proseded to business.

1st.

The committee appointed to select a place for a meeting house Reported That they had not as yet agreed on a Place nor made any selection upon which information, The church continued the same committee with Instructions to Report so soon as they are Prepared to do so, or are Called on by the Church.

2d.

The Reference from the 3d. of September last in Shelby county respecting Brother Tho. Starr charges against Brother A. B., Taken up, and the following letter from Brother Starr was recevd which gave full satisfaction with Brother A. B.

“Thomas Starr, To the Pilgrim Church, of the Regular Baptist Faith and order—

[“]Dear Brethren. C. D. having sett[l]ed with me in Part by note, for the articals for which I held Brother A. B. accountable. Therefore I am Reconsiled with said Brother Respecting the charges exhibited against him at your September meeting 3d. day 1841 yet I hold him accountable for the payment of the note executed to me by his son C. D. October 31. 1841  Thomas Starr.”

3d.

Owing to the scatterd sittuation of the members belonging to this Church. The Church agrees to hold two Church meetings in each month one on the Saturday before the first Lord.s day, at the House of Brother A. Bennett.s (or in that settlement) the Present Place of Public worship. The other to be held on Boxas Creek Burnett County, at the House of Brother Richard Eaton.s on the Saturday before the third Lord.s day in each month. and the day following at each Place. The Brethren on Boxas Creek To appoint a Clerk amongst themselves to keep a minutes of the Prosedings of the Church at that Place, who shall Report the same to the Clerk of the church at this Place at lest every three months, and it is his duty to have the same Placed in order on the Church Book.

4th.

By request Letters of dismission are granted to Brother N. Morgan, Sister Winney Morgan. and Ruth Morgan. and the Clerk is instructed to prepare the letters of dismission  Adjorned in Peace  A Bennett Cl Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday, January 1st 1842. The Church met and in order opened for business and there being noting before her Adjorned.

Saturday January 15th 1842. In accordance with order and provision of the Church made at her December meeting 1841. The Church met at the House of Brother Richard Eaton.s Burnett County and in order Proseded to business—

1st. Appointed Brother John Parker Clerk of the Church at this Place Adjourned ¹⁶

Business done by the Church at Brother R. Eatons

Saturday January 15th. 1842 In accordence with an order and provisions of the Church at her December meeting 1841.

The Church met at the House of Brother Eaton.s Burnett County and in order Proseded to business.

1st. Apointed Brother John Parker Clerk of the Church when met at this Place Adjourned

Saturday February 19th. 1842. The Church met and in order Proseded to business.

1st. The Church agrees to hold Communion at the Lord.s Table at this Place, two times each year (Viz) at her March and September Meetings and to observe the friday Preseding each communion season, as a day of fasting and Prayr Adjorned.  John Parker Cl. D. Parker MO.

Saturday March 19th. 1842. The Church met at Brother R. Eaton['s] and in order, opened for Business and there being no business before her. Adjorned.

Saturday Apriel 16th. 1842 The Church met at Brother Eaton.s and in order Proseded to business.

1st. Received Brother Benjamin Eaton and his wife Sister Malinda Eaton by letters. Adjourned.

Saturday July 19th. 1842. The Church met at Brother R. Eaton.s and in order Proseded to business

1st. The Church being informed that her help was wanted in organising or regulating a church at or about Mustangue Prarie in Houston County. She therefore appoints her ordained authorities clothing them with authorety to officiate in said work at any time, if wanted— adjourned.  John Parker Ch. Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday August 20th 1842 The Church met and there being no business adjorned.

Saturday December 17th. 1842 The Church met and [there] being no business, Adjorned.

Saturday January 14th. 1843 The Church met and there being no business Adjorned.

Saturday February 18th. 1843 The Church met and in order opened for business

1st. Appointed Brother Richard Eaton Clerk Pro tem. and there being no business Adjourned.

Saturday March 18th. 1843. The church met in order and there being no business Adjourned ¹⁷

Saturday, March 5th. 1842. The Church met at Brother A. Bennett.s and in order Proseded to business.

1st.

Granted letters of dismission to Brother Eli Bowen and his wife Sister Maryan Bowen

2d.

The Church agrees to hold communion at the Lord.s table in this Place or settlement. at her regular meetings, in June and december in each year, and to observe the friday before at each meeting, as a day of fasting and Prayr—

3d.

Recived Brother Isaac H. Pate by experence. Adjorned A. Bennett. Cl.

Saturday April 2d. 1842 The Church met at Bro. Bennett.s and in order Proseded to business.

1st.

Receivd Brother Lemuel Coock by letter

2d.

The Church Hopefully believing That a mesure of the gift and spirit of the gospel is given to Brother Lemuel Cook She authireses the said Brother to exercise said gift where ever his lot may be cast and in that way he may feal his mind divinely directed and the Clerk of the Church, is directed, at the Request or application of Brother Cook, to furnish him with a copey of these Records as evidences of the same adjorned  A. Bennett Ch. Cl. D. Parker MO.

Saturday April 30th. 1842 The Church met and in order Proseded.

1st. Recvd Brother William H. Warren and his wife Sister Isabella Warren by letters.

3d.

The Committee appointed by the church on the subject of bulding a Meeting Hose Reported a Place as selected by them on Reuben Brown.s land adjoining Benjamin Davis line, on a point of a Ridge, nere to and on the north side of San Pedro Bayou. ¹⁸ As a sutable Place on which to build a meeting House. And Mr. Brown being Present Prefered to donate to the church a sufficant quntaty of land at that Place for the youse of a Plase of Public Worship, and to the Settlement for a School House.

3d.

The Church Recevd the Report of the Committee and agreed to build her Meeting House at that Place, and to Rase a subscription for that purpose, and Continues the same Committee under instruction to raise said Subscription Papers, for the Product of the Country to see what amount can be raised, that the Committee with the church may be better prepared to deturmon on what discription of a House she will be able to build. Agreeing that the said House may be occupyed as a School House until the Church or settlement is able to build a seperate House. and said Committee is further instructed to examen and designate the quantity of land nessesary for the Purposes intended and take a bond for the title of the same, and Report their Program and Prospects at next Church meeting with their Views of the discription of the House nessesary to be built at this time. Adjorned.  A. Bennett. Ch. Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday June the 4th. 1842. The church met and in order Proseded

1st.

The Committe on the subject of Building a meeting House Reported as follows,—That they had got forty four dollars and eight days work subscribed for Building said Meeting House, and that they had Contracted Mr. Commical ¹⁹ to build said House for the amount subscribed, with the additional help which he has the prospect of getting from some individuals. The House is to be twenty feet sqare (The logs cut that lenth and balled) Hewed down inside and out. A Clabboard Rouff. A good Punchen flowre One door and one window. and a Pulpit four feet squre. The Committee Recommended to the Church to take under consideration the Propriety of Building her meeting house on the Point of the Ridge on the north side of the Creek just below Reuben Brown.s farm as they now believe that it will be more to the advantage of the Church and settlement.

2d.

The Church Received the Report of the Committee in their Program and arrangements in Building the meeting House, and agrees to change the Place of Building said House to the place recommended by the Committee, and continues the said committee under instruction still to designate the quntaty of land necessary for the objects intended and to have the rights of the land secured to the Church and to act in Conjunction with Mr. Commical in examoning the timber out of which said House is to be built, and if the timber will admit add foure or five feet to the lenth of said House and to agree with the said Commical in the extra Pay, to be given for said exray labour etc.

3d.

The Church Being informed By Brother William H. Warren.s Letter that he was an acting Deacon in the Baptist Church, agree to Call Brother Warren to surve the Church in that office.  Adjourned.  A. Bennett Ch. Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday July 2d. 1842 The Church met and in order Proseded—

1st.

Received Brother Joseph Crawford by experence

2d.

The Committee to attend to the Building the meeting House not being Prepared to Report was Continued Adjourned.

Saturday August 6th 1842 The Church met and in order Proceded.

1st.

Receivd Sister Rebeca Pate as by letter.

2.

Receivd Brother John A. Allison by Relation. The Brother informed the Church, That a dificulty had taken Place in the Church w[h]ere he was a member in the State of Arkansas, in which he thought himself hard Delt with, as the Church admitted worldly testimony. That he left the church and expected that he was excluded. That he himself had done wrong and wondered in dark under maney hard trials and temtations, and that he hoped the Lord forgave him, and blessed him with that spirit, so that he could freely forgive all the wrongs which had been done him and that he held no charge against the church, making such Christion like acknowledgment that was fully satisfactory to the church. . . . ²⁰ the church that some information, went to say that the church to which he was a member did not now exist. That he had writen several letters, but had received no answer, and that he knew nothing certain on that subject.

3d.

Elder Parker informed the Church, That himself and Brother Worren attended at Brother Isaac Parker.s at Mustangue Prarie, Saturday the 30th of July 1842, and in conjunction with Elder Samuels, and other in Private council, examoned into the constitution of the Church in that settlement and with but few exceptions found things correct, and Placeed things in order

4th.

Granted letters of dismission to Brother Isaac Parker, and his wife Sister W. Parker and Sister Pheby Hassell.  Adjourned.  A. Bennett Cl. D. Parker M. O.

Saturday. 3d of September 1842. The Church met and in order Proseded to business—

1st.

Instructed the Clerk to prepare a letter to the association for the inspection of the Church at next meeting—and appointed Elders D. Parker G. Greenwood and Brother Wm. Worren Barrers of the Church letter and messengers to the association, and agrees to send five dollars for Printing minuets

2d.

The Church agrees that her meeting in futer be at hir Meeting House. Adjorned.

Saturday. october 1st. 1842 The Church met and in order Proseded—

1st.

Appointed Brother John Parker Clerk. Pro.—

2d.

Red and approved of the letter to the association, and appointed Bro. Lemuel Cook a messenger in case of failure of any other of the Brethren appointed.

3d.

The Church autherises the opening of her door for Reception of members any time during the setting of the association, by calling the church together in order by the moderator.

4th.

The Church autherised Brother Isaac H. Pate to exercise the gift he think the Lord has given and Required of him. In the bounds of the church in that way he thinks is Requires ²¹ of him.— Adjourned.  John Parker Cl. Pro. D. Parker MO.

Saturday November 5th. 1842 The Church met and in order Proseded—

1st. Agreed to hold our church meetings through the winter season at Brother Armstid Bennett.s. Adjourned.

Saturday Decem. 3d. 1842 The church met and in order Proseded.

1st.

At the Request of sundray Brethren on Roses Bayou etc Houston County Appointed Brethren D. Parker. A Bennett John Allison and John Parker a Committee to set with the authorety of this church on this day week at Brother John Allison.s to Recive members into this church by letter or Experence, and Report their proseding to the Church.

2d.

The Church being unpr[ep]ared to attend the communion at this meeting agrees to hold communion at the Lord.s table at next meeting. Adjourned  A. Bennett Ch. Cl. D. Parker MO.

---

Meetings held at A. Bennetts ²²—

Saturday, December 31st. 1842 The Church met and in order Proseded

1st.

The comittee appointed at the last meeting made the following Report which was Received and approved of by the Church—

In accordence with the orders of the Church, December 3d, 1842. The committee then appointed, Sat as directed by the authority of the Church, at Brother John Allison.s on the tenth day of the same month, and Recivd as members of this Church, Brother Thomas Lenards and his wife Sister Sarah Lenards by letters.  Armsted Bennett Ch. Cl. Daniel Parker, Mo.

2d.

There being no other business Adjourned in Peace.  A. Bennett Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Saturday February 3d. 1843. The Church met and in order opened for business and there being none— Adjourned

March, 4th. 1843. The Church met and in order Proseded to business

1st. Agreed that her next meeting be at the meeting House— Adjourned

Saturday April 1st. 1843. The church met in order, and being no business— Adjorned.

Saturday May 6th. 1843 The church met in order and being no business Adjorned.

Saturday June 3d. 1843. The Church met and in [order] Proseded to business

1st.

Receivd Brother Reuben Brown by Experience.

2d.

The church viewing that her cituation requires the work of another deacon, takes the subject under consideration, and agrees that at her next meeting she will try to select some Brother to fill that office acting in conjunction in her vots with the church when seting at Brother Richard Eaton.s— Adjourned.  A. Bennett Ch. Cl.— D. Parker MO.

Saturday July 1st 1843 The Church met and in order Proseded to business

1st Agreed to lay over the vote in selecting a deacon untill next meeting and [there] being no other business Adjourned.

Saturday August 5th. 1843. The church met and in order Proseded

1st.

Receid Sister Hannah Stoe by letter.

2d.

The church at this Place Proseaded to Vote for a deacon but the vote was not made known, until the question is acted on by the Brethren on Boxas Creeke.

3 .

Granted a letter of dismission to Sister Pheby Wells (formely Pheby Parker[)] and the clerk Prepare the same—  Adjourned.

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Church Meeting at or on San Pedrow Bayou.

Saturday September 2d 1843. The Church met and in order Proseded to business.

1st.

The moderator informed the Church that by the Vote of the church on Boxes creek and at this Place Brother Benjamin Eaton is chosen to fill the office of a deacon, and that his ordination to that work is to be on the friday before the third Lord.s day in this month.

2d.

The church instructs the morderator to Prepare a letter to the association for the inspection of the church at her next meeting, and agrees to send five dollars for Printing the minites of the association—  Adjourned.

Saturday November 4th 1843. The church met and in order Proseded to business

1st.

The church agrees to move her meetings to Bro. A. Bennetts during the winter season—

2d.

The church, being informed that her sister church at fort Houston has taken under consideration the Propriety of ordaining Brother Lemuel Cook to the work of the ministray. The said Brother being a member with us; agrees to take the same subject under consideration and refers the conclusion hereon until her next meeting—  Adjourned.

Saturday December, 2d. 1843 The church met and in order Proseded

1st. Took up the Reference from last meeting Respecting the ordination of Brother Lemuel Cook to the work of the ministray and being informed that our sister church at Fort Houston had withdrawn her consideration on that subject which Presents to view, that there is some objections in the minds of that church to the ordination of Brother Cook—Therefore this church think it not advisable to Prograse in the ordination of Brother L. Cook to the work of the ministray, without the andvice and consent of her sister churches. Agrees to drop any further consideration on that subject at the Present. Still considering Brother Cook autherised to exercise his gift as heretofore liberated to do.—  Adjourned.

Saturday February 3d. 1844. The church met and in order Proseded

1st. Granted a letter of dismission to Brother Lemuel Cook and the Clerk instructed to Prepare the same—  Adjourned.

Saturday, March 2 1844 The church met and in order Proseded to business

1st Agreed that our next meeting be at the Meeting House.

There being no other Business—  Adjourned.

Saturday April 6th. 1844 The church met and in order proseded to business.

1st. The church agrees to take under consideration Brother Isaac Pate.s gift, for the Purpose of coming to a conclusion as to what is right or best to do with it, and agrees to lay over the subject until next meeting—  Adjourned.

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(Church meeting at Bro. R. Eaton's).

Saturday, April 15th. 1843 The Church met in order and [there] being no business—  Adjorned.

Saturday May 20th. 1843 The church met and in order proseded—

1st.

By Request of E. F., and on motion investigated the marage of said E. F. to M. L. and the church is of opinion that the Parties had a lawfull right to come together in matrimoney, as it apears to this church from all the information she is able to get that the former woman said E. F. was maried to was the wife of another man ²³

2d.

Recivd Brother Fredrick Blanchard and his wife sister Delphey Blanchard by experence.

3d.

The church believing that she needs the servise of another deacon agrees that at her next meeting to select a Brother to serve the church in that office, acting in conjunction with the church when seting on San Pedro Bayou.

4th.

The church agrees to Build a meeting House, and appoints Brethren Benjamin Eaton, Stephen Bennett, and John Parker, to select the Place to Build said House and to Report the same next meeting, with their Views of the Plan of said House and the meens and ways of building it

5th.

Houston County Republic of Texas. The Pilgrim church of regular Baptist faith and order To whom it may concern sendeth Greeting

Whereas this church believes the constituting of churches and officers therein Requirs church authorety, which should be observed, with strict attention, that Peace and good order may be Preserved throughout our union: and whereas this church is informed that church authority is wanted nere the Naches River Perhaps in the east Part of Liberty county and perhaps else where: to Place Brethren of the Regular Baptist faith in good order. Therefore this Church Renews the right and authority of Elder. Daniel Parker to constitute churches and ordain deacon[s] and ministers of the gospel clothing him with the rightfull authority to officiate therein when and where he thinks the glory of god and good of Zion Requires it to be done, calling to his aid in counsel all the assistence in the cirkle of our union he can Reasonably do cautiously garding against infringing on the rights of sister churches, and Report to this church all his acts and doings in the exercise of the Rights and Powers with which he is hereby clothed, and the clerk is hereby instructed to furnish Elder D. Parker with a certifyed copey of this act of the church. Done at our meeting of business May 20th. 1843. Adjorned.  John Parker Cl. Daniel Parker MO.

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Meeting at R. Eaton's. ²⁴

Saturday. June 17th. 1843 The church met and in order Proseded

1st.

Appointed Brother Lemul Cook Moderator Protem.

2d.

The committee to whom was Refered the subject of selecting a Place for Building a meeting House, Reported two Places to the Church for her to select one out of the two. One on Dickerson Parker.s land south east side of the creek,—the other on elder D. Parker.s land same side of the creek, on the road leeding from Crockett to Fort Houston Both well supplyed with spring water and convenient to building timber. Said Committee Recommend that the House be 18 feet by 20 feet and that the logs be hued before raised

The church Refers these subjects until her next Meeting—

3d.

The church lays over selecting a Deacon until her next Meeting— Adjourned.

Saturday July 15th. 1843 The church met and in order Proseded to business with B[ro.] A Bennett Clerk Protem—

1st.

The church agrees to build her meeting House on Dickerson Parker.s land, the Place selected by the committee—and conkers with them in the size and way of building the House

2d.

the church lays over the reference respecting the selecting of a deacon until next meeting

3d .

Elder D. Parker made the following Report which was Resevd and approved by the church

Beloved Brethren. It becomes my duty in submision to the legal authority of this church, to inform her that in the exercise of the authority, with which she has clothed me That on the 3d. Day of this Instent (July) I Regulated legalised and organized a church of about 20 members on Wolf Creek in Liberty County Republic of Texas upon the same articals of faith upon which this church stands constituted calling to my assistence in council Brethren William H. Whiteson, Joseph Stefeson and Thomas Baty from a regular Baptist church in Jasper county called Harmoney Daniel Parker  Adjourned.  A. Bennett Cl. Pro. D. Parker Mo.

Saturday August the 18th, 1843. The church met and in order Proseded

1st .

Agreed that their meetings hereafter, until otherwise directed, be held at the House formerly occupyed by Josiah Culp.

2d.

The church by her Vote, including the Vote given by the church on San-Pedrow Bayou, Selects or appoints Brother Benjamin Eaton to the work or office of a deacon in this church.

3d.

The church appoints the ordination of Brother Benjamin Eaton to the work of a deacon to be Performed on the friday of her next meeting in couse, as a day of fasting and Prayr for that Purpose, as well as for the Purpose heretofore designated—and agrees to Request her sister church at Fort Houston to send her ordained authorities to assist this church in said work of ordination, and the clerk is instructed to prepare a letter for that Purpose, and Elder Parker [to] bare the same, and this church also appoints her own ordained authorities to form a part of the Presbytery in orda[in]ing Brother Benjamin Eaton to the work of a deacon Adjourned  John Parker Ch. Cl. Daniel Parker Mo.

Friday September 15th. The church met and in order took up the refference respecting the ordination of Brother Benj. Eaton to the work of a deacon, and but five helps having met, agreed to lay over the work of ordination until tomorrow.—  Adjourned.

Saturday September 16th. The church met and in order Proseded to business with Brother A. Bennett Clerk Pro.

1st.

Took up the R