LIBERIAN BAPTIST CHURCHES
The Minutes of the Providence Baptist Association, on the
coast of Africa, from 1846 to 1849, have just come to hand. From
the report of the last Association, which was held at Monrovia.
December 13, 1849, it appears that eleven churches were
represented. Sixty-two were baptized during the year; total in
fellowship, four hundred and twenty-nine. The following is a part
of the circular letter recommending the subject of missions: —
“The present age is unparalleled in history for the many
benevolent institutions in operation; and among them, the
missionary cause stands pre-eminent. While others are engaged in
so laudable an enteiprise we see no reason why the subject should
not be a matter of deep consideration with us. It may be truly said,
that we, as a denomination, placed upon these shores, are
numerically weak, and incapable of accomplishing much; still it
must be presumed, that something may be accomplished by us, by
making a vigorous effort. That we have sufficient inducements to
make such an effort is obvious. Around us are thousands of poor
benighted heathen destitute of the knowledge of divine truth, and
while our brethren across the Atlantic, are taxing their intellects
and purse, to aid in raising a people among the heathen to praise
the Lord, may we not with our small pittance, assist as auxiliaries
in the great enterprise. Again, the duty is obligatory upon us as
Christians nearly allied to this people, to shew our interest in them,
as well as to promote the cause of the Redeemer. Further, it
becomes our duty now to begin the work, and though at first we
may not be able to do a great deal, still we may accomplish
something, if we but confidently rely upon Him, who is able to
bring strength out of weakness; -- ever remembering the old adage,
that he that will not help himself, shall have help from nobody.
Let the churches once begin the enterprise, and a lively interest
will be awakened, and soon we will see our most sanguine
expectations realized.”
Referring to the ministry, the letter proceeds:
“The ministry being of importance, the churches should
never encourage any to undertake it, unless they have gifts and
graces, which will render them truly useful. The standard of the
ministry is lowered as soon as any person, whether qualified in any
degree or not, -- whether his general deportment will warrant it or
not, — is allowed to enter the sacred desk. Let churches be careful
