Imagens das páginas
PDF
ePub

forth, not as against individuals, but as against a system, that looks to man for its authority, and to man for its reward.

Great encouragement was expressed by the early workers in the temperance cause in the answer to the Fourth query. When they looked back to the time when the use of spirituous liquors was deemed necessary for the gathering of the harvest, and compared it with the testimony of a great body of people, "That they were clear of the manufacture and sale, and very generally careful to discourage the use thereof as a drink," they felt the work had wonderfully prospered in the Master's hands. The weakening and debilitating influence of tobacco was also feelingly dwelt upon, and all were encouraged to refrain from the use thereof.

In relation to the several important testimonies contained in the Sixth query, the concern was that we should watch, lest we enter into temptation, and we were reminded that if we dwelt under the love spoken of, that is not confined to any sect or people, but goes to the whole world, we would be preserved from the spirit of war, of vengeance, and retaliation, and be qualified when smitten on one cheek to turn the other also.

We were entreated to be punctual to our promises, and just in the payment of our debts. What to some might seem a small amount, may be to others the necessity of their life.

The thought was freely expressed that if we exercised a more watchful care and oversight over our members, there

would be less deviation from the observance of our testimonies, and unto those who may have gone astray we should extend the tender, sacrificing care that would be given for the restoration of one of our own household.

An exercise has prevailed, in view of the condescension and harmony so eminently abounding, notwithstanding the diverse opinions touching the varied and important concerns that have come before us, and under a feeling of thankfulness at this evidence of Divine favor, we have felt more closely bound in Christian fellowship.

With hearts filled with gratitude for the covering of the Divine Presence, which we feel has been with us throughout our several sessions, we now adjourn to meet at the usual time next year, if so permitted.

EMMOR ROBERTS,

Clerk.

EXTRACTS

FROM

THE MINUTES

OF THE

Yearly Meeting of Women Friends

HELD IN

PHILADELPHIA,

BY ADJOURNMENTS FROM THE FOURTEENTH DAY OF FIFTH MONTH, TO THE EIGHTEENTH OF THE SAME, INCLUSIVE.

1888.

PHILADELPHIA:

PUBLISHED FOR THE YEARLY MEETING,

1888.

« AnteriorContinuar »