AMERICAN FREE-WILL BAPTIST MISSIONS.* The following communications from our missionaries in India, were read in the Conference. To the Fifteenth General Conference of F. Baptists in North America, the F. B. missionaries in Orissa send Christian salutation. Beloved BrethREN:-Though the place of our habitation be on the opposite side of this earthly ball, so that we cannot meet with you in your holy convocation, still we are one with you in spirit, and sympathize deeply with you in the great and absorbing interests which call you together. Our prayer to God is, that His blessing may abundantly rest upon you, in all your deliberations, rendering your present session one of much sacred joy, and the means of promoting the Divine glory in the furtherance of the gospel, both at home and abroad. In due time, also, we hope to be cheered by the perusal of reports of your sayings and doings. Be assured, these silent messengers of "thoughts that breathe and words that burn," are looked for by us with feelings | of no ordinary interest, as they afford us the means of freely sympathizing with our much loved, though far distant brethren, in Christ. We have once more been permitted to rejoice and thank God for the privilege of welcoming a beloved brother and sister from America as associate labourers in Orissa. Our new friends are assiduously engaged in the acquisition of the language, and with the other members of the mission are, through mercy, enjoying very good health. The two small churches raised by the instrumentality of your mission, continue to enjoy a good degree of prosperity. Scarcely a year has passed since their organization without some additions having been made to their numbers. During the past year 13 have been baptized and added to the Balasore church, which, including the missionaries, now numbers 27 communicants. The Jellasore church numbers 17 communicants, two of whom were baptized the past year. Connected with each church is a constantly increasing body of nominal Christians, who attend worship, and are thus brought under direct religious influences. The Khond Boarding School at Balasore, and the new Christian Settlement at Santipur, near Jellasore, are both objects of much interest and hope in the mission. Not, however, to enter further into detail, we would with pleasure mention that we have been much aided and encouraged in our labours, by the kindness and liberality of friends in this country. A sum, not less than 700 dollars, has been contributed the past year, in support of various benevolent objects noted in our printed Report. While the administration of this service has supplied numerous and pressing wants, it has, we trust, been abundant also, by many thanksgivings unto God. The four mission churches in Orissa, under the care of our beloved fellow labourers, the General Baptist Missionaries, number about 280 communicants, 41 of whom were baptized the past year. It has not unfrequently been urged, that the crying wants of the missionary enterprize are, "more men and more money." Deeply, however, as we feel the importance of a large increase of labourers and of true christian benevolence, we feel that there are at this time other and still more pressing necessities, for the supply of which, each and every child of God can and should do something; we allude to the want of more effectual, fervent, believing prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, in order to the conversion of the world. Whether we take into account the present position of missionary affairs, the lethargic, indifferent state of the heathen mind, or the infirmities of the missionaries themselves, we are brought to the same conclusion, namely, that the great desideratum in the missionary work, is the more abundant outpouring of the Divine Spirit. The missionary machinery in India-so to speak-may be said to be pretty complete, and in good working order. The Sacred Scriptures have been translated, and, with a large number of excellent tracts and religious books, printed and extensively circulated, in all the principal languages of the country. Education and general information are being widely diffused by means of numerous excellent schools, in most of which the things of God are prominently set forth. Three hundred and thirty-one native churches have been organized; and, "last but not least," a large and more efficient body of native Evangelists-numbering about 700--have been raised up, to aid in the diffusion of the gospel. Almost every day throughout the year, the glad tidings of salvation, through a crucified Redeemer, are heard proclaimed in numerous villages, bazars, and market-places, from the lips of those who were once themselves worshippers of idols, or the sons of idolators. Your small mission in Northern Orissa, forms an integral part of this vast machinery, and to it * We extract the above from "The Star" of has been vouchsafed, perhaps, fully an aver Dec. 14, 1853. It will be read with interest.-ED. age share of success; still, complete and successful as this machinery would appear to be, the motive power is, to a great extent, wanting. To all in any way conversant with the subject, it must be evident, that there is a fearful withholding of the Spirit, without whose aid "we labour in vain and spend our strength for nought." The heathen, in great numbers, hear the gospel, admit its claims, confess themselves sinners, great sinners, and their own system false and impotent for good, and yet appear to feel no obligation imposed upon them by such confessions; see no necessary connection between it and a change of conduct. Minds long besotted and bewildered by sensuality and fatalism, become most obtuse and impervious to the claims of moral truth. "If it be our fate to perish; why trouble ourselves about the matter? we have too much trouble about our bodies to think about our souls." Such are the feelings and sentiments of vast numbers to whom the gospel is preached. "They are dead in trespasses and sins," how then can they be expected to cry out in earnest, "What must we do to be saved?" ere, by a more than human agent, their attention has been arrested, their consciousness awakened, convicted, and made to feel their real danger? But though "dead in sin, there is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding." Learning, eloquence, arguments the most cogent, are powerless, until the heart is reproved of sin, of righteousness and of judgement to come, "until the Spirit be poured upon us from on high. True, the Holy Spirit works by means; by the preached word which he renders "quick and powerful, sharper than a twoedged sword"; but, to wield the sword of the Spirit aright, the preacher must himself be filled with the Spirit. This is necessary, not only to enable him to "dispense the word, dividing to each a portion in due season," but also to cause him to persevere amidst discouragements; to be "instant in season and out of season," "patient towards all men; in meekness, instructing those who oppose themselves." The vile and disgusting exhibitions of selfishness and depravity, constantly presented to the mind of the missionary among a heathen people, tend directly to sour the feelings and render the heart callous; and unless sustained by a Divine unction, the most fervent zeal must soon give way and become extinct. Missionaries, like the captive Israelites in Babylon, need continually to be assured that "it is not by might nor by power, but by the Spirit of God," that their adversaries are to be overcome and Zion built up. Since, then, it were impossible that any, and least of all the heathen, should be con. verted without the Spirit's aid, and, that effectually to proclaim the gospel, the servants of Christ need be endowed with the Spirit, that "there is no restraint to the Lord, to save by many or by few," that, filled with the Spirit, "one may chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight," that the outpouring of the Spirit is continually prophecied of in connection with the ingathering of the Gentiles; that the rapid and glorious spread of the gospel in primitive times was when its preachers were especially filled with the Spirit; and, further, that it is the duty and privilege of God's people to pray for the gift of the Holy Ghost. The bestowal being especially promised to those who ask, is it presumption to affirm that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, both on the heathen and on their teachers, is a desideratum, far exceeding all other wants felt by the missionary enterprise? And is not every man, woman and child, who loves the souls of his fellow men, and has an interest at the throne of grace, imperatively called upon to unite in supplicating the copious outpouring of the Holy Spirit? Inspiration assures us, "The ef. fectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Here all interested in the world's conversion, may and will aid the good work. Here rich and poor come on a level. Without "effectual, fervent prayer," the abundant gifts of the former will avail little; with it the widow's mite will accomplish much. "Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified, even as it is with you." By order and in behalf of the F. B. missionaries in Orissa, J. PHILLIPS. Jellasore, May 8th, 1853. A LETTER FROM A NATIVE PREACHER. To the Fifteenth General Conference of F. Baptists in America, the preaching brethren in the two small Baptist churches at Balasore and Jellasore send this letter. By the great grace of God and your large and zealous aid, these two small churches of Christ have been established in the midst of great darkness. Herein those destitute of life, coming, obtain refuge. In the great work to which the Lord has appointed us, seeking wisdom and strength of God, we preach his gospel in the markets, bazaars, and villages, according as we have ability. And, by the favour of God, the power of Satan herein is becoming very much less. The Hindoo gods, formerly greatly loved and worshipped, are now neglected. say, "Verily, there is one God, but who is Jesus Christ?" Others say, we regard the Christian religion, but we will remain in our own caste and obey it." We reply, "O, brethren, being soldiers of the company, would you retain the badge of your former They 66 "We "Thus rajah, or would you cast it away?" would throw it away," they reply. becoming the servants of Christ, you must cast away all the badges of your former master." Others say, "How can we endure such persecution and slander to become Christians ?" We ask, Behold, if you seek this world's wealth, do you first obtain pleasure or pain?" "We first have labour and pain, afterwards pleasure." "Then, to obtain spiritual riches, endure present pain, and you shall receive everlasting life. Our Saviour, who never knew sin, endured great persecution and slander, and at last gave up his life for the salvation of sinners. He said, 'If any one will follow me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and come after me.' Would you be a christian?-sub mit to all kinds of sufferings, then you may be Christ's servant." Thus conversing they become silent, having no reply to make. But many say, "Although we do not obey this religion, it is verily true, and others will obey it." Many inquire and receive books, and say, "The gods are false, and caste is false." By the rays of gospel light, the darkness and ignorance of the people disappear. Many say to us, "Remain in our village and daily instruct us, then would we become Christians." "But we are only a few, what can we do among so many?" We pray the Lord to raise up more preachers, both native and foreign, and send them into this large field. The dear brethren and sisters in the Balasore and Jellasore churches, who believe in Christ, serve him, and bound in a bundle of mutual love, are established in the Lord. Of the dear children in the school, several have believed in Christ, and been received into the church. Others are asking to be received. All read the holy Shastra. Thus the garden planted by the favour of the Lord, is becoming fruit to the glory of God. Therefore, taking the name of Christ, we praise God our Heavenly Father. When all in this country become Christians, and the will of the Lord be done on earth as in heaven, then there will be great joy. A meeting house is being built in Balasore, and in this work Padree Cooley Sahib is zealously engaged. In Santipur, the new village, near Jellasore, ten houses have, by the favour of God, been built. There is a school there in which both Christian and heathen children read. The people thereabout give heed to the gospel, and attend worship. There is hope that the kingdom of Christ will be enlarged in that place. Padree Phillips Sahib, and Oliver Sahib, zealously labour to forward the work there. Thus daily the work of the Lord increases. We pray, pray you also, that all obstacles may be removed, and Christ's religion freely spread in this country. We greatly entreat you, to prepare and send more brethren to this country. We are unworthy to repay you all you have suffered for us, but Christ, who gave his life for us, will repay all, for you have gained souls in this country in Christ. You have heard of all the wretchedness of this country from Padree Bacheler Sahib, for that brother remaining here many days, saw it with his own eyes. In particular, pray for us, O brethren of the Conference, that by us the work of the Lord may extend in this land. We make known to you our loving salutation. Written by your affectionate brother. RAMA. P.S. The above is a free, though designed to be a faithful translation of our native brother's letter. The Lord grant it may be the means of provoking to love and good works. J. P. The Committee on Missions made the following Report, which was adopted. Your Committee on Missions would respectfully submit the following resolutions : Resolved, 1. That the recent extension of our Mission operations in India, and the increased number of conversions there, are an indication that the dark night of heathenism is giving place to the light of truth -for which gratitude should fill our hearts. 2. That we regard this success as a call of Providence to renewed and more vigorous efforts in the cause; and the increasing liberality of our churches confirms the belief that this call will not be disregarded. 3. That it should be a matter of serious inquiry by Christians at home aud missionaries abroad, to ascertain why the Holy Spirit is not more freely poured out in the conversion of the heathen. 4. That we hail with joy the successful prosecution of that department of the enterprise undertaken by our Female Mission organization, and would bid our worthy coadjutors God-speed in their arduous labours. And we earnestly recommend the more general adoption of their plan of operation. 5. That we recommend and earnestly urge upon the attention of all our churches, and especially upon the notice of pastors, the great importance of sustaining the Monthly Concert of prayer for the cause of Missions. 6. That the condition of the fugitives in Canada calls loudly for aid in supplying their spiritual, intellectual and physical wants; and that this call cannot be unheeded consistently with our Anti-slavery pro fession. We recommend the publication of the very acceptable letters from Orissa in the Minutes of the Conference. I. D. STEWART, Chairman. RELIGIOUS TRACT SOCIETY. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS FOR THE PAST YEAR. 1. Continental Europe. Grants of money and publications have been made, and other valuable assistance rendered, to kindred societies and friends in France, Spain, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Saxony, Prussia, Switzerland,, Italy, Greece, and other countries. The noble stand in defence of evangelical doctrine which these associations make in the midst of much opposition, powerfully appeals to British sympathy and liberality. 2. Missions to the Heathen have been materially aided by supplies of paper, tracts, and votes of money, forwarded to Christian labourers in India, Ceylon, Burmah, China, Polynesia, New Zealand, and Africa. For Madagascar, special efforts have been made. 3. British Colonies. Australia, North America, and the West Indies, have largely participated in the Society's grants. 4. Emigrants. The multitude who are seeking new homes in our far-distant dependencies have called for particular attention. In nine months 450 ships were visited in different ports, and packets of suitable books and tracts were freely presented to 16,535 families, and to 28,714 individuals; making a total of 524,126 books and tracts. 5. Home. Tracts were prepared and largely distributed on the occasions of the funeral of the Duke of Wellington, the attempted opening of the Sydenham Exhibition on the Lord's day, and the persecution of the Madiai. 6. Libraries. Well-selected libraries have been granted for the use of destitute districts, Sunday and day-schools, union-houses, factories, lunatic asylums, and national, British, and other school teachers, to the number of 874; which, added to grants of the previous years, make a total of 8,435. 7. Domestic Grants have been made for city and country missions, soldiers and sailors, railway labourers, humane and criminal institutions, and for other benevolent purposes, amounting to 4,150,778 publications, of the value of 5,7361.; being upwards of 2,000, beyond those of the previous year. 8. Totul Free Grants. The free grants in money, or by the supplies of printing-paper and publications, have reached the sum of 12,1341.; being 3,0571. beyond the entire receipts from donations, subscriptions, and collections. 9. Ireland. Every application from this land has received a prompt and cordial response from the Committee, with a desire of aiding in the work of spiritual regeneration, now so hopefully begun. | 10. Scotland. The grants have been larger than in former years, amounting to 184,533 tracts, and 256 libraries. 11. New Publications. Constant attention has been given in providing a supply of new works. One hundred and seventyone separate publications have been sent out, suited to the character of the times, and the tastes and wants of the different classes: of these 45 were tracts, and 24 books for the young. 12. Periodicals. The LEISURE HOUR and MONTHLY VOLUME have been carried on with spirit and success; while the CHILD'S COMPANION and TRACT MAGAZINE have sustained their well established position. 13. Issues. The issues for the year from the London depository have amounted to 25,851,851; raising the total circulation, inclusive of those of affiliated societies, to 602,000,000. 14. The Society has continued to sustain the most cordial and fraternal relations with all evangelical bodies, and has been liberally increasingly supported. In a review of the year, the Committee find matter for devout gratitude, and incitement to renewed activity. The work before them is great. That which has been done is but the fractional part of the work to be accomplished. Still, relying on the guidance and blessing of the Spirit of God, they would go forward in their efforts to edify believers, to oppose infidelity, Romanism, and all false doctrine, and to bring souls to the belief of "the truth as it is in Jesus." DANGER AND DELIVERANCE OF THREE MISSIONARIES. WE have been favoured with the following extract of a letter from Mrs Stubbins to Mrs. Buckley, bearing date Sep. 12th: "Last month my dear husband, with brethren Brooks and Miller, had a trip on the river as far as Kontiloo. They were absent about 10 days. The journey would, I trust, prove a savour of life to some precious souls, but to them it was a season of privation and danger. A storm came on; the stream was rapid; and their lives were in danger from the boat being nearly upset. Brother Miller was obliged to sit out in the rain all night to watch the wreckless boatmen. We felt on their return that but for a providential interposition we should all have been widows in a strange land." THE FREE WILL BAPTISTS.* A Sermon preached by Rev. Jonathan Woodman, before the General Conference of F. Baptists, at Fairport N. Y., Oct. 8, 1853. BRETHREN,-It is with feelings that I cannot describe, that I appear before you this morning. When I was appointed to preach the introductory sermon for this Conference, I felt inadequate to the task, and asked to be excused. But my brethren insisted that I should perform the service. And as I never feel myself at liberty to decline any service of the church of Christ, and especially of the Christian ministry, I consented. I do not feel the least distrust with regard to the aid which God is willing to afford me. Nor do I feel that on such an occasion as this, I shall lack the prayers of my brethren. But I do fear lest I shall not be able to do justice to the great and glorious cause in which I am engaged. Therefore I solicit your prayers. The words of my text you will find in the 14th chapter of the epistle to "Let the Romans-the 16th verse: not then your good be evil spoken of." [The preacher here enters into an exposition of the context, which we, for the sake of brevity, omit.] In speaking to the subject now before us, I wish to turn your attention, in the first place, to the contemplation of a few of the peculiar characteristics. of our denomination in its early history, which may be denominated good. At the time when our denomination arose, Christianity in this country, and especially in that part of New England in which it arose, was exceedingly low. There was then but little vital piety. Very little spirituality then was manifesting itself either in the ministry or in the membership of the denominations that then prevailed over that section of country. There were then some ministers in so called evangelical churches, free to acknowledge that they knew noth ing of experimental religion—that they had never been instructed that it was indispensably necessary for the human heart to be changed. They |