a period of ten years. The remaining £86 of the debt the church is anxious to remove; after which it will be found necessary to incur further expense in enlarging the school, the numbers having so increased lately, that the building cannot contain all the children who are anxious to attend. About £38 was subscribed and collected at the meeting. Addresses were then delivered on Scripture emblems "The Altar of Abel," by Mr. Anderson; "The Ark of Noah," by Mr. Silverton; "The Rod of Moses," by Mr. Alderson; "The Daily Manna," by Mr. Chivers. Mr. S. Green was prevented attending by indisposition. "Glory to God on High' was sung to the grand old tune of the National Anthem-the chairman pronounced the Benediction, and thus another happy and profitable meeting at Rye-lane was brought to a close. LONDON: AN interesting social tea and public meeting was held in the above place of worship on Tuesday, May 15th, for the purpose of opening a school-room for the use of the Sabbath-school about to be established. About 120 friends sat down to tea, which was well served by the ladies, who also decorated the room, and supplied flowers for the tables in profusion. In the evening a goodly number of friends assembled at the public meeting, when stirring addresses were delivered by J. Cooper, Esq., Messrs. Wilkins, of Ipswich, Green, Webb, and others upon the work of Sabbath-schools. The best of wishes were expressed by many for the success of the new undertaking, which was shown practically by a collection of between £60 and £70 during the evening, from cards and personal subscriptions. LONDON: HOPE CHAPEL, NORTON-STREET, GREEN STREET, BETHNAL-GREEN. THE church and congregation over which Mr. Maycock was recognized as their pastor in June, 1865, at "Bethel," Old Ford, finding the place (through the increased attendance) too small, as well as inconvenient, were desirous of obtaining a larger and more commodious meeting-place. After much exercise of thought, fraternal conference, and earnest prayer for direction, they succeeded in obtaining the above chapel, to which they removed on April 12th, 1866. The opening services were held on Lord's-day, April 29th. Three sermons were preached-morning and evening, by the pastor, and that in the afternoon by Mr. G. Wyard, of St. Luke's. And on Monday, the 30th, a tea and public meeting was held; Mr. Maycock presided. After singing that favourite hymn, "Kindred in Christ, &c., Mr. T. Austin, of Hackney, implored the Divine blessing upon the meeting. The chairman gave a brief outline of the history of the cause when worshipping at Old Ford, and of the circumstances which brought them to "Hope" Chapel. They had met on that occasion (the chairman said) to ask the countenance of the brethren in the ministry, and to clear off the debt incurred by their coming into the new place, the amount of which was--for cleaning, painting, &c., £15, and £15 more for possession of the chapel. Mr. Higham, of Camden Town, addressed the meeting, founding his remarks on Numbers vi. 24, 25, 26: "The Lord bless thee and keep thee," &c. Mr. G. Webb, of Somers Town, delivered a stirring speech on "Sacrifices." Mr. J. Foreman, the venerable pastor of Mount Zion, gave an instructive and encouraging address on 66 Hope," suggested by the name of the chapel. Mr. Jas. Curtis, of Hayes, expressed himself sympathetically with the pastor and church, wishing them God speed. Mr. F. Griffin, of Richmond, next spoke to the people, followed by Mr. Crowhurst of New North-road. The meeting was enlivened with cheerful singing, and the friends appeared quite at home in their new chapel. The collections, including the previous Lord's-day, with the subscriptions, some of which were very liberal, amounted to, or rather exceeded, the amount of their liabilities, so willingly did the people offer. The doxology was sung with heart and voice, and the pastor and people thanked God and took courage. Our brother Maycock appears to be happy with the people of his charge. The Lord is blessing his ministry, and giving some seals to his labours. May the Lord preserve them in peace, unite them in heart, and make the cause at Hope Chapel, and the connected Sabbath-school, which is in a progressing state, a blessing to the crowded district in which it is located. Most sincerely we put up the prayer "O Lord, I beseech thee, send now prosperity." ONE WHO WAS THERE. LONDON: JOHNSON-STREET CHAPEL, NOTTING-HILL. A TEA and Public Meeting were held at this place of worship, on Friday, May 18th, to present the pastor, Mr. P. W. Williamson with a birth-day memorial, in acknowledgment of his eighteen years' labour there, and as an expression of sympathy with him. The school-room was decorated with evergreens and flowers. The ministers and gentlemen about to take part in the public meeting, surrounded the pastor during the social meal, which was discussed with every sign of satisfaction and pleasure by members of the church, congregation, and friends of the cause. The chapel, -a neat, commodious building-displayed upon its walls some very appropriate scripture mottoes, while, spanning the gallery at the end of the building, were seen the words, "The Lord guide and bless our pastor," and vis a-vis floated over the pulpit in large gold letters upon a white ground, the reiterated wish of his people for their beloved minister "The Lord bless and preserve our pastor." The venerable John Foreman presided. The public meeting was commenced by singing the well-known hymn, 66 66 "All hail the power of Jesus' name," &c. Mr. T. Wall, of Gravesend, then implored a blessing upon the proceedings, and was followed by Mr. Wyard, Sen., who, in a warmhearted kindly manner, characterized his brother Williamson as A MAN-a manly man-a Christian,"-dwelt upon the number of years they had known each other, and informed the meeting facetiously that he had married Mr. W. and his wife on the same occasion”—twenty-one years since. After some suitable remarks from the president, Henry Cooper, Esq., gave a very telling speech, and presented the love offering of his people to Mr. Williamson, which consisted of an elaborately engraved gold keyless hunting watch, jewelled in ten holes, with compensating-balance, and suitable inscription on the dome; also a massive Albert chain,-the value together, as Mr. Foreman jocosely remarked, being "as many sovereigns as there are weeks in the year." In acknowledging this expression of esteem, the pastor briefly adverted to his call to the ministry, the planting of that cause of truth by himself, and his subsequent career, and feelingly made mention of the 150 subscribers to the testimonial. Sir John Thwaites congratulated brother Williamson upon the happy circumstances in which he and his people were found upon this occasion. A fraternal letter was read from Mr. Woollacott, apologizing for his absence, occasioned by the death of his aged partner. Brethren Palmer, Hazelton, Hall, Bax, Webb, and Gray, took part in the proceedings, and at a late hour, this interesting, cheering service was concluded by singing the doxology. STEPHEN THATCHER, Sec. YELLING, HERTS. ANNIVERSARY SERVICES. On Wednesday, May 16th, two excellent sermons were delivered by Mr. Bloomfield, of London. The afternoon sermon was delivered in the chapel to a full and attentive congregation. Tea was provided in a spacious tent. The evening sermon was delivered in the tent, when Jesus and his salvation were sweetly and powerfully set forth. If not the "Feast of Tabernacles," this was certainly a feast under a tabernacle to many, who found it difficult to believe that the sermon was upwards of an hour in length. On Thursday, May 17th, the Sabbathschool Festival was held. Addresses were delivered in the afternoon by Mr. Wyard, of St. Neot's, and Mr. Whiting, of Needingworth. A hymn was sung, called "The Saints' Home," the words by Mr. G. Wyard, sen., and the music by Mr. Wyard, of St. Neot's. After the scholars had taken tea, they were followed by about 400 friends. A public meeting was then held, the pastor Mr. Giddings, occupying the chair. Mr. Sandford, deacon of thirty years' standing, a lover of sound doctrine and good men, gave strong testimony of the happiness he had found in religion. Mr. King, of Gransden, followed with an address on Means of Grace." Mr. Wyard spoke next on "The importance of Sabbath-school Teaching." Mr. Whiting concluded with an address on "The uses of Anniversaries." The addresses were earnest and heartfelt. Some thrilling anecdotes were given to illustrate God's sovereign method of calling the chosen people into the fellowship of his Son. We have had some good anniversaries at Yelling, but think we were never more highly favoured than we have been this year. W. G. BAPTISMS. "The lievers in Christ were baptized by Mr. Rush. DATCHET, NEAR WINDSOR.-Two be ZION CHAPEL, WYCOMBE.-On Sunday, April 29th, two young men were baptized by Mr. Brunt, and added to the church the Sunday following. HAYES, MIDDLESEX.-Three believers were baptized on Lord's-day, April 29th. Notes of the Month. On the evening of the 16th of May, Mr. Oncken, of Hamburg, preached an excellent sermon in Mount Zion Chapel (Mr. Foreman's). A collection was made for the cause of God and truth in Germany. The large and liberal sum of £20 was realized. Mr. Foreman has the honour of serving a united and liberal people, and a people heartily and growingly attached to their venerable pastor. THE missionary meetings this year, it is reported, were attended by larger congregations, and more interest in mission work was excited, than in former years. Our churches should take a deeper interest in the cause of missions, for surely the first church was a missionary church, and the the commission of Christ to it was, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." A more solemn concern to carry out this mandate of the King of kings would tend much to promote the health and happiness of the churches. We want missionaries who will go forth with the pure gospel of the Saviour, and in the spirit of the apostles, and they will need the prayers, sympathies, and support of the churches at home. THE PANIC.-There has been one of the most fearful panics in monetary affairs ever known in the City of London. The failure of Overend, Gurney and Co., has imperilled many interests, and created the most painful alarm. It is hoped that the worst is over, and that the firms taking such important parts in the great enterprises of the country, will still be able to carry on their immense and world-spread works. It is hoped the honoured firm of Sir S. Morton Peto will surmount their difficulties, and come out of this crisis with satisfaction to the community and with honour to themselves. How blessed are they who have their treasures in Christ, according to an immutable covenant! THE LIBERATION SOCIETY held their Annual Public Meeting this year at Hanoversquare Rooms. The meeting was numerously attended, and the most enthusiastic | interest was manifested by the assembly in the Society's work and progress. The aim of this Society is to separate the Church from the State-to free it from State pay and State control. It is no enemy to the Church, but is simply and determinately opposed to the connection of the Church with the State. The friends of this Society believe that the kingdom of Christ is not of this world: they believe in the spirituality of the church of God. State churches are not known in the New Testament-they are opposed to the liberty, spirituality, and independence of churches formed on New Testament principles. UNION THE WANT OF OUR CHURCHES."UNION IS STRENGTH."-There is a deep truth of God for greater union; and the longing of heart in many who love the very fact that there is a longing in members of our denomination for it, is a proof that it is coming. We want a union with others without infringing upon individual freedom of thinking and action-a union arising out of the earnest belief of the same great principles-a union in harmony with the truths and ordinances of God: in a word, a union which answers in some measure to the union for which the Saviour prayed in the 17th of John. The spirit of union in our churches would soon originate some association or forms of usefulness by which it should be developed. It is thought possible and desirable to form a London Strict Baptist Association for these purposes. 1. To disseminate the truths held by us, which truths we believe are the glory of the gospel, and the strength of the church. 2. To strengthen weak causes by our sympathies and willingness to serve them in the gospel. 3. To seek to bring a stronger and closer bond of union among all lovers of the faith once delivered to the saints. 4. To open places for the preaching of the gospel of Christ in accordance with the commission of our enthroned Lord. 5. And for such other purposes as will be promotive of the cause of Christ, and the spiritual health, activity, and prosperity of the churches. We want union on great principles, with no infringement of individual liberty. BRISCOE, Printer, Banner-street, Bunhill-row, Finsbury. implying adoration. 7. Eternity. 8. Omnipresence. 9. Omniscience. 10. Omnipotence; and lastly, 11. Sovereignty, are ascribed to him. V.-His work considered as corresponding with the seven-fold perfections possessed by him, as referred to in the Revelations―viz., 1. Life. 2. Power. 3. Holiness. 4. Wisdom. 5. Truth. 6. Love. 7. Glory. Hence, as the Son of Life, the corresponding works are regeneration and renovation. As the Son of holiness, justification and sanctification, noticing that the path of justification or way of salvation was devised by the Father, prepared by the Son, and revealed by the Holy Ghost, and further showing that the alone ground of justification is the adoption of the Father, the efficient cause of the atonement of the Son, and the personal proofs of the anointing of the Holy Ghost; and on sanctification, stating the seven-fold meaning of the term, as follows:-1. Set apart either with reference to times, persons, garments, or vessels. 2. To make holy or clean. 3. To sanctify or authorize. 4. To make fit for use or service. 5. To bless. 6. To hallow or revere. 7. To magnify or glorify. Observing that sanctification is ascribed to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,— As the Son of power, translation, and illumination. Faith, the word of truth; and prayer as the spirit of wisdom, revelation, and fructification. As the Spirit of love, conformation, and consolation, observing the saints are conformed to him here and hereafter, then showing their conformity to be fourfold-viz., 1. To his likeness; 2. To his life; 3. To his law; and 4. To his love. Noticing his likeness appears in wisdom, holiness, humility, happiness, or thankfulness; while his life was that of service, suffering, and submission. Moreover, their conformity is further set forth in that they are said to suffer with him, to be crucified with him-dead, buried, risen, and glorified with him, As the Spirit of glory, preservation, and glorification, showing that the saints are preserved by his abiding presence, through his continued guidance, according to the exercise of his mighty power, and as his temple. VI. His glory. 1. Considered as he is a Reprover. 2. As he is a Remembrancer. 3. As he is a Intercessor. 4. As he is a Standard-bearer. 5. As he is a Doorkeeper. Loetry. CHRIST, THE CHRISTIAN'S BANK. SINCE Jesus is mine, what can I want more? I draw on my bank for my daily supply, I then think my letter must surely miscarry. I post off my letters again and again; JOHN STENSON, Pastor. But sometimes the post, unexpected, will bring But when all is spent, such a poor fool am I, I can trust to my Banker and do very well. I fear then to draw, lest my Bank should deny; But this is debasing my Banker and Friend, I can't draw a bill that's too large in amount, I'll draw, then, again, for my Banker will pay, Yet my poor stupid soul often makes such a I rest on some good deeds and make them my bank; If I draw for ten thousand, it is all a blank. But when all is gone, and I'm wretchedly poor, Ah, this is the Banker that ne'er did refuse! He bids me draw freely, and he'll not deny. Then why, O my soul, should you sink in I'll draw on my Bank for a much larger sum; I shall soon be of age, and then, O what a sum Correspondence. To the Editor of The Voice of Truth. 6, Cornwall-terrace, Colney Hatch. DEAR SIR,-I have resided in this place two years, and have often been much grieved "that the highways are unoccupied, and the travellers have walked in bye-ways." I have been pleased to find you have some correspondents living at Barnet, and who are fond of "The Voice of Truth" would to God, we could have it here, for I candidly confess I never found such a benighted place. Profession reigns rampant, but with one of old, I speak from my heart, and say, "They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him." But here and in the villages around are many longing for the time when "the voice shall be heard crying in this wilderness, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God," when we shall meet together in the "unity of the spirit in the bond of peace." If your readers resident at Finchley, Whetstone, Barnet, Wood-green, &c., will kindly forward to me their name and address, our friends or I will most gladly correspond with them, and thus be enabled to fix a meeting to consult what steps can be taken,-such steps, I trust, as shall be ordered by the Lord. Fearing I have already trespassed too much on your valuable space, believe me, faithfully yours, ROBERT HOWARD. LITTLE GRANSDEN. Intelligence. Christian Friends,--Our report for the TO MR. BLOOMFIELD.-Dear Sir,-We past year is as follows:-Since our last are thankful you and Mr. Ashby were anniversary we have had no change in our enabled so well to fulfil your engagements faith, profession, and practice, though we with us on the past day. We have reason are not always alike in our feelings, which to remember it as a good day in spiritual are sometimes different, as the day and night, and temporal things. And though we do summer and winter; nor do we expect unnot yet know the amount of the collections, mingled sweets in this wilderness of sin there is reason to believe they will be equal and woe, But let our feelings be as they to every debt we owe. You have kindly may, we think it right to be steadfast, unpromised to insert this report in the Voice moveable, always abounding in the work of Truth.-Yours, very truly, and worship of God; nor would we cease from his service for any frowns or afficJune 20th, 1866. tions that may follow us. His holy word THOMAS ROW. |