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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 020: Correspondence, 1873-1876 and transcripts, p.4
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 019: Correspondence, 1851-1867 and transcripts, p. 4
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 020: Correspondence, 1873-1876 and transcripts, p.5
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: = cma Se On ured ae LA foun So ak, WW See ar f< AA, dd om oti Liar Uprr echottra. ~The JC fuser. 2 Chenusrtry a4 At tpt Ac Yay Dia At ck te a Foe
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 020: Correspondence, 1873-1876 and transcripts, p.30
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: W egleyan University, Middletown, Conan stl Soe 1876 Bid 2. fererrrtb hg ee ee tases plat ALG / 221s ALZe Ba Ai to GP unt i alg. Z ae aa Ua co m4) ae
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Title: Box 001, Folder 021: Newspaper articles and petition, 1875-1878
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: : Volitux. IX, No. 3 THE: COLLEGE ARGUS. No. 6, 1875 27 photographer, fraternity songs were sung with hearty enthusiasm, in honor of the fair and
Show more: Volitux. IX, No. 3 THE: COLLEGE ARGUS. No. 6, 1875 27 photographer, fraternity songs were sung with hearty enthusiasm, in honor of the fair and hospitable proprietors. During the afternoon session a box was received from the ladies of the college, containing button-hole boquets for the delegates. Accompanying them were the cards of the ladies, tied together with 4. K. F. colors. At 8 o’clock in the evening the delegates formed a proces sion in front of the Underhill House, and led by the Glovers- ville Band, marched to the Opera House, where the public exercises of the Convention were held. Owing to the sudden sickness of J. W. Husted, Prof. Alexander Winchell gave the opening address; Francis Forbes, Lb. B., gave the oration, and Prof. J. De Witt Warner, the poem. The exercises passed off pleasantly, and a full and select house were satisfied beyond anticipation. The grand finale was the supper, which is better left to the imagination of the reader than fully described. As the Con- vention broke up, it was the feeling of all that they had been entertained in an excellent manner, and were leaving friends to whom, in a short time, they had become strongly attached. Oe INAUGURAL EXERCISES. HE interesting nature of the exercises attendant upon the inauguration of Dr. Foss as President, we think justify us in devoting considerable space to them. Doubtless those alumni not present would gladly have been soif possible. To them the most interesting portion of the proceedings would have been the speech of the retiring and the address of the incoming President, We accordingly give Dr. Cumming’s speech entire and as much of Dr. Foss’s as our limits will allow. DR. CUMMING’S ADDRESS. ZC To me has been assigned the simple duty of transferring to you the symbols of the responsible office, to which you have been called—the charter, the seal and the keys of Wesleyan University. Having earnestly and repeatedly requested to be relieved from the office, and my request having been granted, it is not perhaps unfitting that these symbols should pass directly from me to you. Icomply with the request of the committee to add a few words to the simple duty assigned me. In thus doing I con- gratulate you on the favorable circumstances under which you assume your office—called to it with the hearty concurrence of the Trustees, the Faculty, the Alumni and other friends of the institution, to us both as our Alma Mater. From none have you received a heartier welcome than from him who now addresses you. May this favorable beginning but faintly indicate the success and prosperity of your admin- istration. I congratulate you on the position and rank of the college. The days of early struggle for existence, of doubt and darkness have passed. Its success is sure. It hasindeed its embarrassments not connected with its existence as a col- lege, but growing out of the enlargement of its facilities for instruction and the extension of its influence in accordance with what has been deemed the demands of the age. The spirit of enterprise that has demanded this large increase of expenditure will, we trust, furnish the means to meet it. The ame enterprising spirit characterized the founders of this in- stitution. In their feebleness, with little money and little power, they had strong faith that looked to the future. They contemplated not what the institution was, in their hands, but what it should be. The charter and the name confer power and imply resources not as yet realized. You enter into a work sanctified by the names, prayers, labors and sacrifices of Fisk, Olin, Bangs and Smith, the honored dead, ever to be cherished and held in remembrance dear. My prayer is that a double portion of the spirit of the first President, the sainted Fisk, may rest on you; then will all the power and privileges of the institution be put in exercise. No jealousy will be entertained relative to new measures and changes in modes of administration. A strong man in the fullness of his power is ralled to a responsible place, that by his skill, wisdom and strength, new resources may be developed. None will rejoice in your success more heartily than those who struggled with the difficulties of the past. ; A new administration can readily introduce changes, which the former one, though desiring, cannot, on account of its embarrassments, without difficulty and loss affect. I con- gratulate you on the character of your associates. I need not tell you of the power, the attainments, the unusual labors and the worth of your associates in the board of instruction whom another will represent. Personal feelings of gratitude lead me to congratulate you on the character of the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee. I can assure you, they will not embarrass, but aid you in new plans and labors. No captiousness, divided counsels, or personal difficulties will hinder the success of your great work. They will expect reasons indicating the wisdom of your measures and when this shall be apparent they will give you cordial support. I recall with gratitude their kindness and patient and careful consideration of what has been hitherto proposed, and I have special satisfaction in the fact that no measure of mine that was earnestly urged, was ever, in all the difficulties of the past, rejected. I congratulate you that in prospect at least you will be free from much drudgery and labor distasteful to one of literary taste, hitherto connected with your office. Only that sense of duty that leads the true man to do what the office and hour demands could ever reconcile such an one.toit. The sacrifice made is never appreciated, oft lightly treated. I re- call with sorrow the years given to such labor, the sacrifice of ambitious plans, and hopes that looked to honorable attain- ments and some degree of permanent influence. be a field of congenial labor. You assume your office with less responsibility relative to government than either of your predecessors. By a recent change in the rules of the college your asssociates have a re- sponsibility in government not before assigned them. I trust you will find in their hearty and faithful co-operation, the wisdom of this change. There is also another reason for the changes, in the fact that the government of a college to-day is very different from what it was fifty years ago. Students have received exemp- tion from requirements and duties formerly deemed necessary. May yours � 28 THE COLLEGE ARGUS. Yet is there a most important power in this movement and ’ however ridiculed, yet has You will be called to control those whose hot blood, undisciplined energy and reckless zeal will oft lead them astray. -Firmness, coolness, wisdom and kindness will be needed. There is a generous nature in impetuous youth that will yield to the just exercise of power that shall not seem arbitrary, and to patient forbearance and kindness. Oft the reckless boast of independence is made, with lips pale and trembling showing how vain the effort to conceal true feeling, that in private, causes tears of shame and sorrow. In all cases of discipline there are other hearts than the offenders that the phrase, “ Jn loco parentis’ significance. ache, and in innocence may suffer keenest anguish. Few oc- casions of sorrow and disappointments are greater than that of parents, grieving over the fall and shame and dishonor of a child who has been the object of their dearesthopes. Happy is that administrator of government, who can feel assurance Oft re- monstrance in private, much as it may expose one to abuse and misrepresentation from the ungrateful, will save a noble soul. Much tenderness and wisdom are required to exhibit that only true consistency in government which is not that never needlessly has he caused such sorrow. measured by mere outward rules, but by character and cir- cumstances and measures that shall gain the only true object of discipline. There will come also other scenes in which few will know the responsibility of your office. The common lot and the ereat destroyer as you know in your own sorrow and bereave- ment spares not the gifted noble seekers of truth. There will.come times, though we pray heaven to avert it, when the strong, the gifted, it may be the manliest of yon throng, or of those who shall tread succeeding years these well worn aisles, shall lie on the bed of suffering and of death. When in the absence of the dear ones at home with weary eyes they look longingly to you and ask when will the loved ones come. Then in that long sad night willit be your duty to watch and whisper words of consolation and tell of Jesus’ love. Then when that scene has past, you will be called to meet those whom swiftest speed brought too late to receive from a dying child words of affection and the kiss of love. Even now solemn scenes rise before me; but, thank God, whatever others may say, these forms, whether bowed in sorrow or with faces pallid in death, through the darkening shadows of the past, express no reproach. This has been hitherto pre-eminently a religious college. This fact, together with its name, has led to mistakes as to its character, that some of its friends have regarded with im- patience. Yet better this mistake than the opposite. What. ever may happen as to the name, which is more significant than any other name, of a benefactor connected with a col- lege, I trust and earnestly pray that here sound learning and true piety may be forever united. Let no pride of science put away humble trust in Christ and a confiding belief in that good old doctrine of prayer and moving faith, in which good and noble men and women of other times trusted and trium- phantly died. Surely in an institution founded as was this, it is not too much to expect:that students shall be trained to a practical religious life, and that while the intellect shall be developed and made wise, the affections shall be trained to duty, and all the faculties of the soul consecrated to truth, knowing God and truth are one. Here may true wisdom be found, the beginning of which is the fear of the Lord, and from this college, in long succession, may go forth true scholars whose mission shall be to bless men and honor God. I commit to you the Charter of Wesleyan University, the original and the amended, which have long been in my keep- ing. It is connected with precious memories and high hopes; may all the privileges and powers it confers be realized under your administration. I commit to you this seal; it has been used with carefulness and discrimination in its impressions on certificates of regular and special degrees. Under your direction may no impres- sion be made that shall lower the standard assumed or cause you regret. I commit to you the keys of the College. in practical use and will open many doors. May they be symbols of your power to open the hearts of the worthy, the powerful, the generous, and to secure resources that shall greatly increase the influence and power of the University. I heartily wish you success, and that a long and useful life may be given you, ere you depart for Heaven. And may God now and hereafter bless Wesleyan —— They have been INAUGURAL ADDRESS, BY REV. CYRUS D. FOSS, D. D. Collegiate Education as Foundation work. The immense importance of such work is recognized the world over. Slow, deliberate, long continued and apparently needless preparation for distant duties and uncertain perils forms a large part of all educational processes. Facts, all around us, are constantly proclaiming this lesson, that we ought to act in view of the far off and indefinite future, as though it were now present and definite. We must gird ourselves now for its unknown emergencies. It will be too late to lay the keel of the ark when the billows of the deluge are roaring around us. Intel- lectual training proceeds on such principles. Cases are constantly occurring in which only the well developed and well furnished mind, and the ready and decisive will, can pre- vent disgraceful and ruinous failure. Decisions must be made on the instant, which shall embody the accumulated wisdom of a life time, and shall determine great interest forever. Moral and religious culture has kindred but transcendant issues. It is a gradual process, painful often in its slowness, of laying foundations for superstructure which shall endure forever. ‘Taking a broad view of our whole existence, it is not too much to say that our entire life on earth is thus basal and preparative. It is foundation work, not work, a getting ready rather than an achievement. Especially is, it true that all educational processes are of this sort; and according to their success in this particular must they be judged. (It is imperatively demanded, and never so strenuously as in our own time, that culture be basal. It must go to the bottom of a man’s nature and make him more a man. Mere surface adornment avails less and less). The culture demanded in any course of liberal education cannot be intelligently determined without a careful consideration of two questions, viz. What the being is, by whom, for whom, � THE COLLEGE. ARGUS. and in whom this culture is attempted; and. what he is to be and to do? In other words, what is man? and what is the true philosophy of human life? First, then, man is an animal. eats, sleeps and dies. As such he is born, grows, Yet he differs from all others, and is, as Shakespeare told you long ago, “the paragon of animals.” He needs physical culture, he needs frame as well as brain. Let him eat beef and mutton in generous slices. Let him leap into every day as into a new paradise, over the wall of eight hours solid sleep. Let him hurl the ball, or pitch the quoit or tug at the oar, or poise the rifle; only let all these things be done with the distinct recognition that we have a higher nature, and in such manner and measure as to do no harm to what is best and noblest in this loftier realm. Of this higher nature the physical powers are only the scaffolding. To man this earth is something more than a dormitory and a larder, and a gymnasium. It is a school- house and a workshop, and a gallery af art. One of the great problems which has been long and earnestly pondered by many of the ablest minds in the world is, how best to secure that culture on which the progress of science and civilization depends. The courses of study prescribed in the college and university are the answer to this grave question. However these courses may vary in different institutions, they unite in this most emphatic testimony, that the great need is culture; the training of the mind to be all it can be, rather than to know all it can know “ Esse quam videri,’” is a lesson taught us from our childhood. ‘“ Esse quam habere,” is a lesson only less important and demanding more courage in the teacher and greater faith in the learner. The good thing for the student is not to seem, nor to get, but to become. It is some times objected to the college course that many things laboriously learned in it are quickly forgotten. For- gotten! What matter is it if the tourist forget some of the steps by which he ascended the Righi? He is there none the less, and the mountain air thrills him, and the sublime scene spreads around him and what matters it if some of the les- sons are forgotten by which the student becomes a scholar, and enter into lasting communion with the loftiest thought? While thus the real worth of a thorough educational course can be justly estimated only in view of these highest con- siderations, it is well to remember that in every lower region of haman endeavor its superior value is abundantly demon- strated. All but ten of the signers of the Declaration of In- dependence were trained in universities and colleges. More than one-fourth of the members of the National Congress, from the beginning to this day, have been graduates of col- leges. And will any one say that Cicero and Pitt and Sumner were less effective in their oratory because of the affluence of their culture? In passing to my final topic I must call attention once more to the vital question underlying all sound education— W hat is man? Some narrow specialists say that he is an improved ape. But where are the palaces apes have reared, the poems they have written, the Atlantic cables they have laid, the temples in which they worship, and the hymns of faith in a coming glory which they sing? Oh! when I consider the history of man, and see that his course is a perpetual progress of ideas while all the lower orders of creation are forever running the same unprogressive round of existence, that a barbarous country becomes in a few generations the arena of highest civilization; above all, when I consider the spiritual yearnings of man and the religious history of the world, how man hates God and defies God, and wants God, and yields to God and loves God, and communes with God until he re- sembles God; I feel that no account of the origin of this wonderful being at all tallies with the indisputable facts of his career save this, “In the image of God created He him.” Science is bound to take account of all facts. Now among the grandest of facts are the intuitive convictions of the soul about God and a hereafter; its sense of wrongness and its longing for a release; the Bible and Christianity. Any course of education which omits these, however brilliant it may be, is not fit for man as man, but only for man as the most erect and meditative of apes. In America the college is the child of the church. A late report of the Commissioner of Education shows that of the 368 colleges it enumerates, thirty only are known to be secular in their origin and management. In this noble company Wesleyan is proud to march. She has never been, may she never be, the propagator of a narrow sectarianism; she has always been, may she ever be, a defender of “the faith once delivered to the saints.” The methods by which a high moral and religious culture may be secured in a college, I cannot now discuss with any approach to thoroughness. The discipline of the college is among the agencies for the highest good. The influence of the students upon each other is an element of prime import- ance, and the regular instruction of the college course is another. On the daily chapel service and the public Sabbath worship in this place, and on the social religious meetings, we largely rely for the best Christian influence. My chief hope, however, lies in the personal characters of the instructors. If the institution shall stand a thousand years, the time will never come when the name of Fisk shall cease to be a talis- man. Why? Because of the thorough, genial, saintly good- ness of the man. I undertake the heavy responsibilities of the office into which I have this day been publicly induced, not, I confess without very serious reflection and some tripidation. And yet I undertake these responsibilities, not, I also admit, without high hopes and strong courage; for I remember whose co- laborer I am in this great work. I encourage myself, first of all, by considering who the men are at whose side I take my stand. I remember also of what stuff college students are made, and this inspires me. Nor do I forget the noble men on whose fostering care the welfare of this university so directly depends. Nothing could have induced me to accept this office, which I esteem at once the highest honor and greatest responsibility of my life, save the earnest assurance coming from every quarter of co-operation from the friends of this university, and above all the confident expectation of the blessing which I humbly crave from Him, without whose aid nothing is strong or wise or good. � THE COLLEGE: ARGUS. The College Argus. Published on alternate Saturdays throughout the’ Collegiate year, at Wesleyan University. MIDDLETOWN, CONN., NOVEMBER, 6, 1875. EDITORS : W. S. BLAKE, ’76, A. B. CARRINGTON, ’76, W. C. WALLACE, ’76, W. S. WINANS, ’77. J. M. HITT, Business ManaGer. pete One College Year, (in advance), - $2.00 Sale * Copies, . = - - - - aS THE Contecre Arcus is published by an Association of members of the Senior and Junior Classes. It will be mailed to any address on receipt of price. For sale at the bookstores of Sumner & Hazen, and E. Rockwell, where subscriptions will also be received. Tur Arcus is forwarded to all subscribers until an explicit order is re- ceived for its discontinuance, and until all arrearages are paid as required by law. All communications should be addressed to Tur Connece Areaus, Middle- town, Conn. No annonymous contributions will be received. CONTENTS. PAGE. University Song, - - - - - - - - - - - 25 Some of our Notions,” - - - ~ S - - - - - 25 4. K. E. Convention, - E S : = a z z : 26 Inaugural Exercises, - = zs é 2 3 : : 2 27 Editorial Department, - 2 L 2 £ é Z £ 4 ‘ 30 Notes and Clippings, - - 4 x 5 ‘ “ > ¢ 32 About Here, - é - Es s : = = 2 = 32 - - - 36 Personals, = ‘ s e 2 5 s = 5 The present issue of the ARGUS we are sending to all our Alumni whom we can reach by the Alumni Record. Our sub- scribers will, of course, be glad to hear from Wesleyan, especially just now in this crisis in her history. We also hope to interest those of our graduates who have not taken the Araus in the past. If all our friends would send us their names, we would agree to soon make ourselves welcome. Through the kindness of Harper’s Weekly we make this number specially valuable to all Alumni and under-graduates. The fine engraving of Dr. Foss has already appeared in Harper’s Weekly, yet it seems to look better to us in our own home paper. On the morning of the 20th the Freshmen thought they would try the temper of the Sophomores by swinging a “banger” in chapel. Of course the Sophomores took the banter and a nice little rush ensued. We might just here get off the usual amount of virtuous nonsense over this little affair, but we cannot do it. . All the platitudes in the world will not make a Freshman anything but a Freshman or a Sophomore anything but a Sophomore. When the lion lies down with the lamb, it will indeed take but a /ittle child to lead either. We are opposed to hazing in all of its forms, but when a Freshman class desires a little “ rough-and-tumble ” as plainly as did ’79 the morning of the 20th, we can see no cause for complaint against "78 for giving it to them. By the way, the President would like some neutral to come and drag out the piece of timber over which the contest waged, as it is of no use to him. They burn coal in No. 24. The business manager of the Argus Association has asked us to “stir up the boys with reference to their subscriptions.” This is a task that we dislike to perform; indeed the editors of this Association feel that it is only culpable carelessness (to put it mildly) that necessitates any such reminders. We noticed a few weeks since that our Treasurer, in making outa rough estimate of receipts for this year, had deducted, from what seemed to us the correct balance a considerable sum. We found on inquiry that those strange figures represented a kind of leakage in our business, a calculation on the number of men who would forget to pay their subscriptions. We would have been indignant over this imputation on the common honesty of our subscribers, if we had not known the condition of the Treasurer’s books for last year. The Arcus is in no prospect of dying for lack of funds. With all out- standing debts, however, collected, we could do more to make our paper worthy of our College. We have placed on file in the reading room the Yale Record for September 29. We advise all our students to read carefully an article in this number of the Record on “ Business Habits.” As we all ex- pect to be upright and business like in our dealings with the world, would it not be well to begin the good habit a little before we are in the rush of active work? We never like to hear undergraduates praising their own college above all others; such comparisons sound both boyish and ill-advised coming from whomsoever they may. What we do like to hear is, solid praise for your own college home with- out reference to any other institution. Loyalty to one’s col- lege we hold to be a cardinal virtue, and it must be a strange specimen that dislikes to hear the Yale man “blow for Yale,” the Columbia man for Columbia, or the Wesleyan for Wesleyan. We say, if your rudder wire stretches one inch (and your crew comes in fifth) hold up that wire to the interested (?) world, until it has stretched a foot. If a member of your crew has a sore finger (and your crew comes in last) make printers ink do what muscle and skill could not, even though you are laughed at for your generous zeal. If your crew sweeps in ahead as grandly as did Cornell’s last summer, then, we say, yell ! The 26th of October was a great day for Wesleyan. First came the formal inaugural exercises in the chapel; then the informal gathering of the evening. Roman candles and rockets, illuminations and songs, class-mate re-unions and American-Eagle toasts, all conspired to make old Wesleyan happy and contented with herself. White-headed editors and red-headed bishops shot jokes at each other, and even our staid Prof. of Latin raised the old Harry with the names of his associates. D.D’s, and Hon’s, were thicker than hail, and « man that did not have an honorary handle of some kind to �� a OLIN LIBRARY WESLEYAN COLLECTION | i LOE ~~ se Eto ES ELE: yy fe ctececnc Hee PPO Aaa oe ZZ aE OOM az, ; fe oe 2 en Cady” 7 4 A ck MOS g Lox fh (io eee Aces Nee AE Aahctet ia hy he tf Zo De GQ Lb2 Ki or “pif tos oo re (20 Ie Aaiiss oh, é re bts Adar Aon fiLe-a— eae el, Lg ZT ECt CE ee, 4 Vg ey, (C27 L- / At JLtC . A slo LanGiill, Le tt CL6) Le ahaa So acct oa, Simeone APP O CLEA. pe Zz ae Con a a eo ez Ze a J L Larou 7 thvévrdovde Goo. fiche | H.W. Ze jou 2 | 1 � lett HO. OL, 7 woe eke. COT chk. ee a A litAy 9A MO Paces Alor Pox g., eo fie, Bh (bees ; an Vb.chad oe a bee : hele jo, — es L Att , (Bi fvaper oF CUBA 2 ie Oi HfL ae La 4 oss a loos 2b oe ff feoriee BAtrtl ee MEL Bort. “LEEK oe ) = iter oa Yer Cy Kat Bf” J eigen B55 HE bicerte-a2€, Ca GB 7a Meg: Crone ad reeds) Fareed ee | ms ve o oe, Lhasa � 4 & J cy . ie a. fo TEE Leo Ig , ai ve � erted so marvellous an influence, and “is THE CENTENNIAL DAILY (Baltimore, Md.) December 17, 1884 | sea “ . ae - Duke, but of’encouragement. Nearly. a | have been dependent on it for support. Such was the humble beginning of the the w veekly = thodist journt als in America | The effort to — them has continually gigantic publishing house which has ex- | came un ler 2d} citing political campaign, ¢ and I mention it as an auspicious fact-that with scarcely an xceplion they held. the..cross-of—Christ hich above the’ party flag, and that front 3oston Bay to the Golden Gate the music of Christian fraternity was not interrupted by a discordant note. Surely the God of our fathers hath blessed us during this Centenary year. The rapid progress made in the circula- tion of our Methodist t pe riodical literature will be seen from this glance at the figure Me th dist Epise opal circulation, Church :—weekly 155,583 ; semi-monthly, 282, - 170 ; MOREY 615,457; cus = rly,, 1,218 340. Total y ¥, 2Z,02152 Methodist y Bis scopal Chure hy South :— Weekly circulation, 5,516,128; semi-month- ad ’ ly, 384,000 ; monthly , 12,240,000 ; = arter- ly, 812 000. ‘Total, yearly, 18,952 E vangelic al Assoc iation:—W eek a 235, - 620 ; semi-monthly, 25,400; m- bee 6 100; quarterly, 2,500. “Total, yearly, 12.977, 540, Methodist Protestant —The aggregate of the figures furnished me is 3,641,552 arly. From other bodies belonging to our Methodist family I have not succeeded. in obtaining reliable statistics. Jnited Brethren; Soom Weekly, 52,982; semi-monthly, monthly » 92,98 and oe rly, 106,750. Total, yearly, 4 4,757, 006 The peace and prosperity of Methodism in America are > largely: it n the Keeping of its periodice ah press. Con fro y a rampant infidelity, by lipeomaen, in super- stition, and by sin in high and. in low places. Methodist. periodicals have no strength to waste in warfare among them- selves. They have no time to throw away in fighting over the seer of the past. It is not all-important that we should be able to divide exactly oe blame of what _ Ww coh done by our dead fathers. hey made some mistakes, and this gene- ration had to suffer consequences. Along with a rich y of glorious and of more glor ious pos- te bequeathed tous. some dif- 2! 1ich they were unable to adjust. And sow : haw had to. carry their mis- takes as well as our own. ‘They have met on Mount Zion, and no trace of the earthly eonflict soils their white raiment shining in the light of God. T hey look down on us here in this Centerary Conte rence-—Asbury and McKendree, scom and TH: saiiline, Janes and Capers, Andrew and Morris, Peck and Paine, Marvin and Haven, oe xy and Kavanaugh, Simpson and Pierce. We expect soon to join them. Let us now cherish the frate rnity that will gladden us when wé enter upon that high and sacred fellowship. Let there be no discord in our song here, as there will be none there. Let Charles Wesley pitch the tune: Let all the saints terrestrial sing With those to glory gone ; For all the servants of our King, In earth and heaven are one. E’en now by faith we join our hands With those that went before . _ greet the blood-besprinkle’d bands 1 the eternal shore. The truce of God pervades our Churches during the Centenary year. In His name, let it be unbroken during the next hundred years ! nd to this end let all the printed sheets that shall be issued from our presses not only bear the imprimatur of the Church, but reflect the spirit of its gracious Head, and like white-winged angels enter the homnes of our people Ww ith messages of peice and lighy and mee 2 : ————t- © EDUCATIONAL WORK J AND SPIRIT OF METHODISM By Rev. Joseph Cummings, D. D., Northavest- ern. University, Lvanston, Ill. 3 Ad yunUeL Ut vuisL in < “aeavomite ‘an enjoy ed ee highest advantages, association with si irned men can give e was a great ~ varied learning and did ‘ae than other man of he age, to diffuse usefl knowledge among the people. He made himself familiar with the learned, massive works of his day. He selected from them the most important truths and presented them: in plain —— and in a pleasing form. He t thus prepared for the people ee variety of useful and entertaining knowledge. He originated a periodical, one first four religious magazines established for ie defence ef the Protestant faith, and the magazine he founded is the oldest re- ligious periodical in the world. Wesley was deeply interested in educa- — erthationa and established a school he year when Methodist field preac hing, moseee meed. He projected other schools,” —_ as his followers needed, and also form- plans for schools for the children. of the vere in a cities of England. Several of Wesley’s associates and of the leaders that succeeded him, were learned men, who labored earnestly to promote education, American Methodism entered into. the educational spirit and work of Wesley, and its suecess in this work is not inferior to the results of: its: spiritual power, to which it has grently contributed In the first interview between Bishops Coke and Asbury, the subject and plan of a college. were discussed: and matured, and at hy Christmas Conference, when the Church was or; a the plans and mea- sures were sa unctic and ae made to secure ie coulis of the institu- tion. At that time the Methodis a were a of the and it was opened wit propriate ceremonies in 1787. us arrangements and rules. show, that if. was designed for ~ traisting of youth for an earnest, nob Tbe fastitution ‘was destroyed by fire in 1795, and a second edifice shared the same oon after its erection. It has been t these disasters discouraged to infer, that the great work of the church did not incltde educa tion. This is a mistake. He first favor an institution of so high a gaide ag-a college, put vives to the earnest wish- a E ee the destruction of plan was laid in 1785, ned to his fa of ¢ establishing imaditethonns for the general ople, rather than of the t e€ aid of the leading members of the ved, ie sought to-establish Acade- to:be commenced. lish-another college, which, fi means, had only a-partial and transient suc- cess. In the early period of its history the great-objects of Methodisur were to spread scriptural holiness and education over the land. In 1792 Asbury’s ambition was to place 2000 children we the best plans of education ever known in this country In. 1820 the Gener: mal c onference recom- mended that each Annual Conference should establish a Seminary of learning within its bounds. This act was prompted by the spirit of the ministers and people who had already commenced. seyeral insti- tutions of this character, One great characteristic of the ec ducation- al work of Methodism has been its prac co al and popular character. One class ‘of sti- tutions is designed for the few who ty "the very nature of their training are separated from the multitude and have itt e sym thy with them. The other ¢ for the people, and the trait direect'y connected with ti the schools of Methodism. nnultitudes have been prepare ad to be good citizens and use ful members of society. These institutions rarely had an endowment, yet they brought the advantages of education Within the reach. of all, and in various ways furnished opportunities for self help. of the most influential, maintained for manual labor dle partment, and shown, by those who afterw vards exerted great influence and held the i; ghest places in the church, that higher scholarship could be gained by those who spent hours in daily toil, than by those who ¢ sould command all their time for study. The Church has alert ¢ number of colleges. which tablished « large in most cases ene kept the subject_of education before the minds of the note , and exerted an influ- enge over Many who were never connected with them. In their. courses of study, in the-amotnt of work accomplished, ana in training and < discipline, their adyante ges have been equal to those of the oldest and best_endowed colleges. There is much of pleasing sentiment connected with the ancient college halls and rooms, where dis- tinguished nién. have studied, toiled and laid the foundation of their eminence and power; and parents and young students oft fondly think there is. in them an. in- spiration that will lead to similar greatness; xut the stern truth remains that great work of education, of development, of discipline, can only be accomplished by continued, — personal efforts on the part of bn, tudent himself. The reliance the tinananes of the Pp and the eciirpaebcnality they bring, may prove harmful rather than bene- ficial in the attempt to accomplish this vork. Such colleges have not the most successfulteachers. Scholars distinguished in special departments, in which they have far made acquirements eyond the ele- mentary knowledge gained in colleges, rarely make: the best ‘one hers. ‘Too . a ik of ins Stead nis mere drudgery, ) nd thereis but. lit then: ma oe The eee ts of instruction, are y men of little r © sympathy between dependence of thought, in self ret Nance, in nen, in usefulness accomplished, number of graduates, not specially select ho have gone one from any other col- legs in the country. hu aver aan 3s ago Methodism See ene eed as. an orgs ranized C hurch, its ae ‘ we nd educational work. Wha sccomptised in education may be ve the following statement relative to the num- ber and condition of its paciiae. m o 0 Sad ee Ss | er ee i Ee OS S et pe Oh A ea A Sah oo a aS ae ME [os Oo So tt © mH Pe v ™ Ge ~~ nm . om te 1S ee SS c =O ee ad i ao Li} wD aS ze iD OO ft rt 1D! 3 FF Ww ow fw od vt wt or nm vi Sa H Or Qe et i oe SO oF oF S S as! & OS: wi ort bs 43 = % oO & oe = = 3 S col wt 2 ae 1S a @ oe xf a a a oO 1S pest se fe a 3 a ee so ¢ ¢ ¢ o oS = SSS = 8 BS ee CR Oe eee z oO S oo x < fe = S&S & ot ” BS a oe Oo eg S 3 xcs % a © & Y at eee ge Ee gar S x Gar S S Se oS — on S mt Oo So Qo . asia uo aS STS =° SS ose eer a ae =i ERR er, a Oo 6 ae . © © Q ana on et SO So B rag Bo tort ~ yy a Sr oS “=> oy G ON | = ie Se ke Sea Ranh, tas See Si : eA 28: AiR Seg : rs ore a. : SE og aot Oo. B SF a ton SES + om aS Soe gS 1 2 kp LS BBL pry OS mm a A He oO 3 | Tn eighteen years there has been an In- erease in the value of buildings and endow- ments of $10,968,3: As. an (adicatoon: of the work. accom- plished by these institutions, a few facts in the history of one of them ms ry be mentioned: The Wesleyan University was organized in 1831 with a few students, a library of 90 volumes and a small amount of property. In 1881 it had 184 students, 31,000 volumes in the library, $650,43 0 in. prop perty. t von de d its graduates numbered 1291, of whom 638,had been ministers, 48 col- Nae presidents, 674. ee and \enchers, 249 law. yers, 73 physician “3 and 164 authors. Others tare been ee in various secular pursuits. There have rn connected the University 935 did not graduate. is estimated that the ministers have spent 8,540 years in preac hing, and its teachers 5,738 years in teaching Itiss said Methodism has not contributed to the scholarship of the country, has not pane men who as authors stand in the first rank as leaders of thought. Candid investigation would show that this asser- tion is unjust; never ilialies its. strong men have been so directly engaged in pre actical work, in efforts to elevate society and ren- der the multitude wiser and better, that they have found. little time or inducement to pursue literature as a pro n. The Methodist Church is only a century: a and so rapid has been its increase i bership, that a large part of the poopie: ar whom its influence has extended, has been raiming. In other churches there have been. generations of scholars and their cuittese is the result o: three sane, and the students in their golloats are the descendants of scholars. uch ciecurhatiniane there is eneourage- e the object of thise with those thus engaged and aeaser all needed support. Methodist scholars = received the sympathy, penpgert r freely accorded to othe ave e they have’ accom- plished'a far more important work, have produced as great: a proportion of inftuen- tial thinkers as any other church. thas often eon shears that the peer of Methodism have Bg yeen uneducated m The reverse is tru V hi many of ‘its ministers seit had the attainments and the sympathy with the people that have en- abled them 2 eee multitudes to the truth men, directed formed er plans and fou nstitu- ions. In.ne other charch has thers been wiser management, Le sagacity or more practical wisdo: oe 2 is one kind ¢ of schola y Meth- odisurlias not encours aged, and in 7 vhieh o er- tainky fe w, if any, of its scholars haye ex- celled. It is a selfish scholarship. that de- lights in seclusion-and neglects-the interests of the mul ultitude and is Maps eOns to the welfare of soci Neither the law of God nor the urgencies of wie dimes permits such luxurious self-indulgence. Study, when not directed to usefal Fenda, becomes a vice; and superior knowledge makes us more guilty than our fellow-men we offer them no stese in our acquisition Yes, far more worthy of thanks from. man, and reward from God, is the digger of the drains the marsh, the hewer of the wood that warms a dwelling, the ¥eri- est menial that se rves our necessities, than § raorat UP} tween and the neglectsthe actual morals around him—who would sing solitarily his own pumice-worn numbers, self charmed by their Attic purity, though the city were > burning—who, intent over his proble ms, cares not that an enemy has forced the gates—or who eetaie upon the partic of a dead language energy which might saye immortal soul (Bethune.) An important illustration of the practi- educational work of Methodism is arrangements for publishing useful information among In £789 its publishing house John Dickens, then the only dist preacher in Philadelphia, loaned Met he tlie Church $600 for this purpose. * Kepart of the Board of Nducation for 188t not only one of the greatest powers of Methodism but of the land. The founder of Me ‘thodism availed him- self of i‘ * press to a remarkable extent, His p itions were more numerous, more t« ful, better adanted to the peopl and of rcater variety than those of any other rcligious teacher, and he Sissel a most cffective and wise plan for their con- tinuous and extensive circulation. Next to a holv life and earnest efforts for the conversion of men, Methodist ministers were pledged to circulate books and tracts. The burden ee aoe ever vecurring exhortation “feed the people with helpful readiz care that every society is supplied with Bod ks.” Another illustra- tion of the practical w a of Methodism in education, is seen its mode of training its minister D pistes rags bien few could attend schools, and ency of the work ded the immediate atten- of age and experience, who superin- tended his studies, corrected his. errors and e needed instruction in all things pe faining to the office and work of the min‘s try. A regular course of study was early prese xibed and: is still continued, that ré- quires ee careful attention. for sey- eral Continuance in the Se Serene on successive study power to enone h and niece the ‘teats Nowhere is there a wis ore practice and effective made: of chetatevial anion, co! as it does apogee and -aaasie than has. been adopted by our chure e second great cfiseaplesisile ee the educational work and spirit of Methodism, is- found in the co-education of the sexes, She did not originate this, but has done more than any other church to promote it in schoolsof the higher grade. Itis generally ‘ound in the public schools, the only ones that three-fourths of the people ever enter. Jnder its influence the rural children of this country grow up to be men and women, ho understand each other better and espect see other, more than people of oikee ands aeucae do. The social vacant of rura : aoe and small districts of our ne high. It is true many grea’ ateciias do ‘hot approve of this system ‘of education, and in some parts of our country it is not practic ally known. There may be peculiar circumstances. and. it. is inex pedient, but one it would seem to be the a sys- mn of training. God, in instituting the family and the church, in which peice sexes are trained togather, would seem to have sanctioned this principle of education. The minds of both sexes are stimulated by competition and —_ to secure the same attainments. ere is no inferiority in one class that conséitutes a hindrance to ———, — lessens the progress. of the fien been clearly shown as young 1 tion the oe jipenianh studies should. be the same for all classes-and the candidates “0 all a. and the sy stem of elect- studies, now so common in all educa- tonal rahe ae oe the highest grade, n be variec a as meet the require- annie of an 38. he raoral Taiwan ze of the association nd when traine . cs : the same inatitutions ‘than in separate Co- inated is now recognized in most o the eee institutions of Methodism and there is nothing in their history preju — o it tis surely winning its way- having gained partial admission to several, — oldest-and most conservative ¢ olleges. gs only a matter of justice that the en- dovancets the libraries and cabinets: that centuries have accumulated, and the ad- vantages: and honors thes highest inate tions mild be all who can appreciate and profitably pur- sue their courses of study. It is ne ae that; Methodism, that has made so effectiv use of the power of women in the C sie, and En the sphere of their influe nce and vileges, should be the agent o} south is to them in the established institu- tions the highest advantages of education. The third and most important character- of Method- an bestow, sh« equally open te its influence has been pre-eminent. In its institutions there have been oft-reeurring revivals, very many conversious and — ast ands have gone forth from: there as ear Christian Jaborers to be a blessi ™ eb society. It does not. appear that in the course Boon by these institutions, oe any reasonable ground for objectic There is no interference with the see diva un opinions and church relations of the pupils. re required to abstain from vice and = and persuasion are used to lead them to — estimate of truth and fo reli- es. the announcement relative to Cokes- iia College, after the statement relative to the object of the course of study and: the om inches embraced therein, it is said, e ist that our College will i in time-send forth men that will bea blessing to their country, n every laudable office and employment in life, thereby uniting the two greatest-orna- ments of intell igent beings. which are too often eet “deep learning and genuine religio The rules. of the © ollege were too rigid, they manifested the stern purpose and self- denial of the founders, but in utterly for- bidding play and enjoining for recreation a change of studies and employments they were pO ees Pe 2 our time such ales e enfore! waa ee may differ. with. re- spect to: the —- of securing the obj proposed, yet it is an accepted doctrine that the edacsior should not. bestow-his- care-ex- elusivel e aren a the intellect but should vale the ph with earnestness devote Simeelf to the edu- cation the heart. The r ancient: and modern philosopbers:- have ous edveation, far-reaching, is not a duties of life. the tread-mill drudge ory of the strug- gle for existen ething which reatly makes. this and withe:ii which our stay here upon earth is at-be & & ps with a- tragic ending, oral. edueation and principles: of’ ethics caenet be imparted by: verbal statements, like the principles and rules-of science. Fhe heart: must be — ae exercise ag the band, the museles and:t wept We hear much about sec a edseation, the importance of: intellectual trainin wend the superiority of institutions: estw steed by the State,in which any general princi- ples of morality can jose cag while dis- 4 nust. be ex- d. we ar oe ° en tieck the system of training ante anre h instittttions: is‘far superior as-% pre sparation for the purpores of life, to any edhieati on merely seeular . stitutions can give. If religious: trathest ec of the importance clarinet if the great: dor- trines of the Bible are to be believed, the religious training of the young~ shew tic never be separated from intelleetuakeul ture: Youth, with its strong impulses, reckless passions, impatience of restraint, its pride, vanity and undue conceit, isever yrone to infidelity. It is important. there should be teachers with kindness that shall win, and force that: shall command scours. Tn a convention of instructors, in whic the place religious instruetion ened oid in the highest institutions, was diseussed, a distinguishe d eduextor, not * religions man, ain stening to the discussion, expresse dd urpri rise at the apathy. of religious teachers. Said he, if the doctrine that teaches that a mand so much attention frony teachersas religion; but, said he, no such preparation isnecessary. The disastrous influence such an it soeractol: with brill nt ee and commant sing power, Would exer eed not be deseribed. The pected in whiely youth are ir the institutions of learning, is te mrost if this shalk be passed higher important of life. without gaining fiith im Christ and: eon- eccration toa holy life, there is very: little | �y~ probability = ut areligious character will ever be form It is to be “feared that the influence of many eminent piety. Scicace has of contradictlug the truth of scripture. ‘fs a supereiliousness in which the a errors of good people of limitec vuire, ments and mistaken views of the me soli of God’s Word are treated, that has a ten- dency to inspire contempt for all religious truth There is a manifold difference of opinion whether religion should be recognized in the higher institutions of learning. Some contend that such recognition must be unfriendly to the great object of education, which is culture, and must hinder the free- dom of investigation and teac ri required by the spirit of the age. Surely Christian men, familiar with the hist tory of the col- leges founded by churches, cannot acce pt these conclusions. = religion is needed in any commnnity; if it can do anything to elevate any class of persons, it is required in college S omrimvemnttles composed largely OF utRoeptna intelligent, impetuous youth, whose judg- a limited. Charac formed where it is subjected to the author- ity of Christ. Christian faith is the perfection of human and acre a ans by enlightened seen is not only friendly to the highest forms of culture, but is an esse ntial condition of the thas been the great ‘charac teristic of educ ation coo in the Methodism, tha right mor: been ueieneds of the highest importance, and right motives and a holy life re; egarded to be _ es ae philosophical acumen and great attainments in scientific truths. eckceiom bas accomplished a won- derful work in the century past, and fidelity to her — requiies that ats should earry it forw with the sacrifice and en- ergy her etofure manifested. 1e must greatly increase the resources of mae ol- Jeges and universities to meet the aeneuels e age J proportion as or other power controls the highest institutions of learning, will it contr ‘ol pub- pinion y this influence the Jesu Yr ned as educators and conquerors, i e They gained control over the highest de- partments of education both public and period the Jesuits had hundred uence fl necessarily down through till it a all the channels of thought, feeling and religion. Let Methodism with broad Christian charity, free from narrofwness and bigotry, unite with other denominations of Christians in a = control this won- drous power of education. Let there be no jealousy of any ever of the truth, but a ready welcome to all well established results, with an ever abiding faith in the sult culcation shall fie diligently sought. ————____—_1 oe << > DISCUSSION ON MONDAY, DE C. 15TH, 1884. Rey. C. 8. Smith—I would not at this junc cture, Mr. Chairman, rise to engage the aeutionl of the asse mbly were it not for the fact I was misunderstood in some remarks that I made the other day. s this subject — direct ly - a line of “the work of whic ge in the African M. E. oboe: aaa inaemeech as I will not be present at the next Yenten- nial, [ want to set myself right. I under- rtance seid this subject to be of vast impo: to the training of childhood and youth, and is almost identical with the subject we had under discussion the other day. It brings us face to face w ith the ee: shy of the } 4 ment wth and develop into this world tainted with the sins of their ancestors: that isin accordance with the words where Jehovah has said “J will visit the sins of the fathers upon the —- to the third and fourth eneration; and I will show mercy to thousands of those that love me and keep my commandments.” Is i true that t is beginning to dawn upon us con- duct and of the aspirations of are more and oo toward the natural and the practical. It is not neccessary that I should standup here to inqui re in this hearing, or that should raise the ques- tion w hether children do not come as ° is largely owing the ce bet the different classe sand cial conditions of men. Upon the ground of original sin there is no controversy among us, we all knew that ore is but one highway of holiness, there-is but one open door to God’s presence oa bosom, and through that door must go childhood and youth ag well as old age. The conditions of the Gospel apply “Still to youth as to all others, all men must be converted, all whether young or old must er and have their sins forgiven; all just be redeemed through the ions blood of Jesus Yhrist. Bishop J. M. Walden—Offered the fol- Jowing resolution, namely, That the Bus- jness Committee be requestec ed to appoint from the various Methodist bodies here re- special committee of 10, of be one and the chairman, to SS this paper shall be re- erred and who ee report to this body. cDonald.—There are some things that w eaken the church in its hold ampen the youth, and the aie thing is this. Jack church authori Je cannot hold the masses to the esa that the church is the best possible agency for the salva- of the soul, and hence our young people feel free to go to church or not, and e who are inclined to be eyen religious think themselves under no special obliga- tion to come the church. I think we have lost largely the power of es church authority. ‘The second phase is this, the church has _ los ver e a Be au oO a Jargely depar ted, and ai turn to the Church to find that whit supplies their social needs, and the Church does not ecem 10 furnish them, we have lost much of our hold upon abs em from this cause, and our church members, many of them, especially our ae members no longer expect that these social wants will be supplied and so they have turned their thoughts elsewhere and they go to other associations and societies‘that have come upto claim the attention not only of our youth, but of our leading church members, and they do not throw their hearts into this work nor do they open ‘their parlors for this purpose. In our ordinary social meetings and means of grace we come to church, and when the service is over, we go away as soon aspossible, with little or no enterchange of thought and sympathy; and then, our church sociables are often the most ‘frigid things imaginable and by this very peculiarity are power to attract the young, and seems to me that the Church would do well in entering upon this second century, to have a great revival of this social spirit among us and thus provide and cul- tivate the elements of sociability among and then the masses will floc ke to our but until our me mbers do pos- die out, and we cannot e expec t to maintain our grasp tpon them; we do not take hold of such with the v igor that we ee perhaps there may be some difficulty or want in our theology; perhaps we do not take uP as fully as we should with the idea that the Holy Spirit may meet the ahild right at the threshold of its immortal life and that under the teaching of the Church and its benign influence the child may be reached and greatly influenced by the se associations. Dr. J. Buckley said substantially, this que stien is of great importance, but I cannot understand how we can build the Methodism of a hundred yeirs ago. pli in; We were new then; we were and pi of “chi dren emer ns thereto. - The speaker enaehes that children came destitute of we eee ag 2 aoe and a heat, and many ui 9 rejoice in our light and to warmed by our fire. wa were, in a were Wa a be strengthened a. We had no mac hiner y then, good sense the term, @terrillas aud carried on 2 guerilla warts are: for awhile we were mistihdetstood, sometimes perse- cuted and many of tho )¢0 converted at our altars entered into other churches and sus- tained them; a great many remained; but our churc hes were churches composed largely of adults, and-the children were not expected to come in; indeed they were asked to stay outside for a little w hile; but now we have come to have all the machinery of an established church. We have societies organized of every conceiv- able kind and in some parts of our coun- try if they accomplished the sh of a soul they would feel that it was neces- sary to appoint a committee, inde ed in ie church that I knew, they did actually ap- point a committee on procuring a revival. [ Laughter. | They did not, however, suc ceed in Ease it that way. Wh ile we must ha change, and iron adhe- rence to old forms is fatal to progress, and the rejection of the old for the new is experimenting where experiment may be fatal yet I believe that Dr. V incent has touched upon the right line, though I do not believe that our church can furnish all young people require friends of eM youth and T feel that if oe d never been friends, we could a a iio or That teaches me that is Impossible for us to be on ps soc a ey all in our chure st ys rd the apostle Peter’s ote “Be pitiful, he CE And this re- lation may exist between the man whose boots are lacked eqaly Ww MG, who blacks his boot Br Indicate ; way witek will au a measure reach this difficulty. Asin the masonic fraternities and in Heal life and com- mercial life, so in church life. e ques- ae of equality ae and will regulate self. We must define ee rules out- a8 of church organiza io Rey. W. H. Reed.— President, wee Conference cannot acc seiolian a mo portant work than to give a plan ¥ ner by the Methodist Church shall furnish the working plan for the purpose of supplying suitable reading to our young people, not ouly in such places as the Mt. Vernon M. E. Church, but in the rural districts as well. The excellent books, by which you could control the trend of the intellectual culture, as also the moral standing of the as nd upon the tables and in Whrrelod many books read by the y membership, but we do not books now ; they have been removed, and other volumes have taken their places; another class of literature has been sup- plied, and it does not help to make our Now I believe that a plan may be adopted by which we can give our children the same benefits that they had Fee years ago, a if this pla f Vincen zo is adopted it will la sy ad- prov hes visuioer desired. Theotah: these ly ceums and readings, and lectures, and home neaaitick, instead of this lower g srade of worthless literature, those better abe that Jie unused upon so ok- shelves, may be utilized for tneir religious growth and a antee e. —I think that one part this plan 25 been overlooked, if I understand the plan of the Oxford Lyceum as proposed, it is designed to make our young people acquainted not merely with the current literature of the day but espec- ially with the Bsr, and doctrine of our fi e days of its purity r. J. J own church from t It is a oe designed to bring oe Lyceums in ne armony with the and aim 0 old Oxford Club a it is believed fiat nothing we can do Ww o eonserve the interests of in easto-bring thém out-in the cngwile edge of those early heroes into full s pathy with their work I am satisfied an set young ae tians to OE ward keeping them in the way. W. ing and reading, and reading, in order that they may the better ‘ik. I should be glad indeed if by any means suggested here we may bring up our church > former history and to her doctrines as practiced by Mr. Wesley and his co-labor- ers. It seems possible, and if this plan that has been suggested in the propositions befor us may be made to harmonize with ey ery interest of the church so as to cause o conflict, and if it shall be wrought into the material of the church so as not to in- terfere with the work of the church, I be- ieve that t young people may be genes improved and blessed, and it may be nade thoroughly ection hy the ‘. Price.—I am PepLy to wit- ness this new feature of Me hodistic zoe in this country. The t success of church of the future ae ‘the TaPSRS used for that success = the comi tury depend to a great the young people engaged in Of course our par rental superintendence over the » younger children and the ture in the Sabbath school will still eee ine But you know that at a certain ge,a great many of our young people think that the Sunday school is not for them, and therefore that they are cut off from ‘hat part of the church. Now if by the action and encouragement of the “Oxford League,” we c the -young people interested, we have. fone a great work for-the future. A great many young people come to our church and sit in our pews who would be glad to have son thing to do in the church, oad then, there others who hay on- who occupy ; plaee, oat a large place in our congregatio ons _if you an. get this class, you may be able to utilize them for the advantage of the church and glory of God. A more important question, af- fecting the future of the chu has not been ‘brought before this Conference, and if starting out upon the second century we take a view of what the church during the hundred years that is past has alrez dy’ r 29 of all the churches to. take agit work * W ill be a sufficient guarantec e for it s HL Dr. J. L Vine ent on “the relation of the Church e saa Young.” In order to save time I have prepared an outline on the subject which I shall be glad more fully to discuss, but if I trust myself to extem- porary delive ry entirely I shall talk too long and fail to present the subject which am most anxious to present to this con- ve eee “The objects of the Oxford Lea T he Sa of to- day are to make | aha world and the Church of tomorrow. Church ae control and train her c hildren on in the in truth and Christian character, that the world of tomorrow may »e blessed by the church of tomorrow. She cannot expect maturity of Christian character in these earliest years. Dying grace will be given in the dying RanraAoe Fe eaAtion come in times of sorrow, but there is a true Christian ideal of i youth and in age toward which the child should aspire and grow. Every nee into this world ithe rits from his an- estors, the taint of sin and a tendency to - but he also receives from his Redeemer the gift of grace which involves a re- lation and a state clearly resembling the relation and ante of ajus stified and regen- erated believe This grace can be forfeit- ed only by a ae rejection of Christ, and can be retained, developed, and ma- tured, only by a voluntar “herefore we may rest c onfidently every child as potentiahly a be liever, and a child of God, We must, however, watch carefully the transition frori the state of infant — e to that of eonscious responsibility, and by all plainness and fullness of instruction, by all fidelity in reproof, and by all patience and forbearance, seek to bring the chil voluntarily toreceive Christ and : = a e refined culture at home, an to become His diselpic by personal chois and profession, and in the Way of repen- tance and faith. (Applause,) Ve may assume concerning the vast majority of children, (I know not of a single exception.) who have reached responsibility they have gone as- ‘ray in the abuse of their freedom and that they need a _ positive re- turn to God in the only appointed way of approach. Whatever our theological theory may demand, or a few exceptional aples sustain, the great majority of children, even in Christian homes, need conve to God, and we must be careful how “we allow abstract theories to keep our chil- dren from the altars of the Church, or de- ter them from seeking a personal con- sciousness of Divine pardon and grace, —— Our children need instruc- tion in doctrine, but they need above all, careful training in reverence, obedience to parents. respect for age, purity of speech ae ee manlin ss, truthful- ness, helpft nd self-sacrifice for the good of bth 1ers In this w ork the most ere rtant agents the Home, the Pulpit, the Primary 8 f th Pastore ul children. Beyonc different from them, a oS treatment, are our y boys @ irls, young men and women— fren font een to twenty years of age. The mistake of the Church has been, in not recognizing the peculiar demands of this large, int piciong and imperiled class of its constitu ney, and in providing the instruction and aah which it requires. The situation of young people is pecu- liar a their exposure great. The home-hold has been tirely relaxed; 8 s p the individuality of the young Tife be- gins to assert itself; and, with = nage ment of the and the wi drawal of home contol the vegitinaata things of = outside world—edtcat ation, ty—become very fascinating; uae time the influence of the ae world for evil is exceedingly strong; the tone of the church towards such young people is often indifferent or fault-finding; the Church is misrepre- sent ‘ed 1 by inconsistent members and by outspoken infidelity ; race Cc — est of these intermediate years are ing in lines of life, and in reflex sa fitience’c on character. Well may the mother answer her sailor boy who asks: What shall I bring the e, mother mine, hat shall I bring to thee? Bret i brn ig thee jewels that burn and From aie depths of the shadowy sea? Shall I bring thee the crown that the hero wears! By the wondering Ww pric entwined, Whose leaves can cover thousand cares And shine o’er a Leubist mind? What are jewels, my boy, to me? Thou art the gem I prize. And the dearest spot on that = y sea Will be where thy vesse. Bring me that innocent brow ay boy, Bring me that shadowless eye Bring me the tone of tender jo That speaks in thy last EA a A mother asks the church to guard well the treasure that she commits from her loving heart to the wide, wide world. Now how shall we train these youth for God’s glory and service, for the good of men, and for the possession of a character that shall endure eternally? And how, in the = ance o these ends, can we util- ize our own Church and make these youth- of Methodism intensely and intelligently loyal e te ar nee classes of Methodist youth : SL —Those brought in without, es- oe sally during revival season, young peo- ple who have no denominational anteced- ens, no enominationar training rf o are brought up in Meth- odist families, who have at home no strong social life, no home aspiration, 1 no family eee no delight in the fireside and home and ea and in connecting lo nd gladness with the service ao life of the Church. 3.—Those who, althou our own Church and found but a acccminwiead 1 en- thusiasm, to whom the ut- page world ‘a been opened with its at- actions and Ese ee who = cba other churches that may be more agreeable ¥0, their tastes than “be church of th eir father: Tho se fake have received broad and who have been brought up with intense love for thei ir oe n church so that they never think of leaving it, and yet love all branches of = Haly jatholic Be in answer to uestion: how shall ctiese youth he held pe trained by the Church? We cannot assume that because young people are born in the Methodist Church, they will stay in it; ther no such denominational momentum V ‘ Nor that they will natura a oie our Church, for there are too many things in our standards and requirements which antagonize the world and esh, to make it a thoroughly satisfactory ie to the common min > may exp: pect success only as we diligent and unremitting in aor wise ana ‘faithful i in the work of instruction. We special instruction in ethics, and usage, in classes designed ex- clusively io pone people. 5. Our best people, people o strength, culture ant ‘sein influence, must give at- tention to all classes of our young ‘people, consec an ng their parlors to a_ social life which shall promote an interest in, and love for, the Shared 4. a the part of youth. Church never be a substi- tute for consecrated parlors of church- members. [Applau Our youth a st be trained in th doctrines of the Church in a vital, earnest and experimental way, that they may ap- preciate the power t et isin them. I hold in my hand a servic which I oe e ee see in nae now among classes of ane our young Methodist z episcopal people, where the Catechism of Church is embodied ina responsive se popes andthe old standard, theological, experimental hymns of the Chure h are also embodied, to be sung in connection with the rec itation of the doctrinal formu- las themselves. (Portions of this Choral Service of Doc- trine were here read by Dr. Vincent 7. Our Church has pronounc ed agi ainst the so-c calle d indul Beuries s—the Card- Table, the Dance, the ! 1eatre and the Wine-Glass. But we are in danger of se- verity and sarcasm in holding up our standards, and an ex hibition of “anythi ng a ¢é such lack of gentleness, tells unfayorably upon the young people with whom we deal. It ily is, howeyer, hig important that young people should w derstanc that, with all fidelity, with 1 firm- ness, gen itleness, an¢ love, we protest against the amusements of fis mone especially those which [have named as amusements improper young people of the church. le to hold these truths that whatever thought may be about the evil, on the whole, these institutions good to society, and that youth,intelligent wide-awake, has no right to tamper with, or sustain institutions that do no good to. society t on the whole they do harm, everybody concedes it. A young Christian has no business to tamper with anything that, on the whole, does harm to the world, however much these things may be def Asnstos worldly or godless people (Appl p 2.) is that although the old time persecutions hav passed by, no lions wait for the open ning of the door to rush upon helpless women and children who before God and who would sacrifice their allegis there is aspirit of the the spirit of the Lord ~ that hates togetk [Mc to-mo TR yearg drink �
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 014: Annual Report 1871-1872, p. 17
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (422) Church. It has influence and has what money cannot buy - a history - Its Alumni are a power in the land. There are no elements of power in which
Show more(422) Church. It has influence and has what money cannot buy - a history - Its Alumni are a power in the land. There are no elements of power in which these new Institutions can be superior to it except the mere matter of friends. It has a noble foundation and if friends will give but a small part of the sum necessary to found a new college it will hold the rank among these new local Institutions which Yale and Harvard hold among the Institutions of later date that are sustained by the same patronizing territory.
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 014: Annual Report 1871-1872, p. 10
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (415) be higher than for other students since no rooms can be furnished and usual arrangements relative to clubs for boarding will not at first be
Show more(415) be higher than for other students since no rooms can be furnished and usual arrangements relative to clubs for boarding will not at first be practicable.
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 018: Library-related papers, 1867-1870, p. 8
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: Dec 23 1868 Cougbeare & Howson's Life and Times of St Paul is a remarkable work. It has extraordinary merit and is a most valuable and
Show moreDec 23 1868 Cougbeare & Howson's Life and Times of St Paul is a remarkable work. It has extraordinary merit and is a most valuable and interesting contribution to biblical literature. Its reputation is clearly and positively established. The publishers have rendered the community great service in presenting this good and great work on terms so favorable. I hope it will have a wide circulation. It should be in the library of every lover of the truth and of good books. Joseph Cummings President of the Wesleyan University �
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 014: Annual Report 1871-1872, p. 12
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (417) a lot of land that should belong to the college. I earnestly recommend that you give the Executive Committee power and instructions to sell the
Show more(417) a lot of land that should belong to the college. I earnestly recommend that you give the Executive Committee power and instructions to sell the land on High Street and purchase the lot on Cross Street. Time of Commencement Soon after entering on the duties of my office the Corporation concurred in the recommendation to change the time of Commencement from the first Wednes- [\page] 1871-1872 80 day of August to the last week in June. The change was not popular and the apparent interest and the attendance at Commencement declined. I deemed it best to recommend the present time which the Corporation adopted. At the present time most of the colleges hold commencement as early as the [] of June and there are many reasons in favor of this arrangement which I
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 003: Annual Report 1859-1860, p. 43
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: �

Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 003: Annual Report 1859-1860, p. 42
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (250) The following gentlemen are recommended for the Degree of AM. in course. [no list] [Joseph Cummings] �

Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 016: Annual Report 1873-1874, p. 27
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (476). B.S. It is recommended that the Degree of B.S. should be conferred on John Edward Eustis It is recommended that the degree of A.B. should be
Show more(476). B.S. It is recommended that the Degree of B.S. should be conferred on John Edward Eustis It is recommended that the degree of A.B. should be conferred on (printed list)
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 004: Annual Report 1860-1861, p. 14
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (264)I would suggest as a measure that will in part at least secure the improvement desired that Trustees, that may hereafter be elected, should be
Show more(264)I would suggest as a measure that will in part at least secure the improvement desired that Trustees, that may hereafter be elected, should be elected for a period of three years subject to a reelection and that the Patronizing Conferences should be requested to elect Visitors for a period of three years. Should the proposition be adopted it would be desirable that at the first elections Conferences sending Visitors should elect them for different periods in order that some members of the Board representing the conferences should hereafter be elected every year. As there are several vacancies in the Board of Trustees it may be desirable that additional members should be elected. I would respectfully suggest that it is very desirable that gentlemen should be elected who will attend the Annual
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 019: Correspondence, 1851-1867 and transcripts, p. 30
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: �

Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 014: Annual Report 1871-1872, p. 1
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (406) The President of Wesleyan University submits to the Trustees his Annual Report During the past year the University has been called to mourn the
Show more(406) The President of Wesleyan University submits to the Trustees his Annual Report During the past year the University has been called to mourn the loss of a member of the Corporation, one of its best and most generous friends, Isaac Rich Esq. He died January 13th 1873. The Institution is greatly indebted to Mr. Rich not only for his princely gifts but for his influence manifested in earnest and successful efforts to induce others to give. His death was sudden and without any recognized warning. He had not opportunity to revise as he had purposed his plans, which we are well assured contemplated additional gifts to the University. We will cherish his memory with gratitude for the good he accomplished by his gifts and influence, and wait in confidence for others to come forward and take his place. I respectfully
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 009: Annual Report 1865-1866, p. 19
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (361) We ought to be able to do the full work expected of a University. Now we are only able to attend to that part of the work of a college implied
Show more(361) We ought to be able to do the full work expected of a University. Now we are only able to attend to that part of the work of a college implied in education. We should in addition connect with the college distinguished scholars who by their learning and writings would bring honor to our church and glory to our land. Other colleges derive a great part of their influence from this source. In the present disturbed state of affairs in Europe many learned men would be glad to form a connection with American colleges. I learn from a recent letter from an acquaintance that such is the case with the distinguished Dr. Maker(?) and it would be well if we could invite such scholars to unite with us but under present circumstances this is not practicable.
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 015: Annual Report 1872-1873, p. 6
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (436). I am persuaded that the rule that limits the term of office of a Professor to five years is a wise one and calculated to secure much good. Dr.
Show more(436). I am persuaded that the rule that limits the term of office of a Professor to five years is a wise one and calculated to secure much good. Dr. Johnston has given me notice that he will not be able to attend to the work of his Professorship next Term. It is hardly probable that his age and ill health will permit him to do much more work. He has served the College long and faithfully. I commend his case to the kind consideration of the Board and recommend the appointment of a Committee to consider what course shall be Pursued. Under these circumstances it will be necessary to elect a Professor of Chemistry. In this connection and inasmuch as the Board will consider a new code of rules I would suggest that it is an
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 021: Newspaper articles and petition, 1875-1878, p. 7
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: lett HO. OL, 7 woe eke. COT chk. ee a A litAy 9A MO Paces Alor Pox g., eo fie, Bh (bees ; an Vb.chad oe a bee : hele jo, — es L Att , (Bi fvaper oF
Show morelett HO. OL, 7 woe eke. COT chk. ee a A litAy 9A MO Paces Alor Pox g., eo fie, Bh (bees ; an Vb.chad oe a bee : hele jo, — es L Att , (Bi fvaper oF CUBA 2 ie Oi HfL ae La 4 oss a loos 2b oe ff feoriee BAtrtl ee MEL Bort. “LEEK oe ) = iter oa Yer Cy Kat Bf” J eigen B55 HE bicerte-a2€, Ca GB 7a Meg: Crone ad reeds) Fareed ee | ms ve o oe, Lhasa �
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 007: Annual Report 1863-1864, p. 15
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (323) Christopher Page H(?) Benjamin Sherwood Gurnee Willbur Fisk Jonston Kelsey Frank Currier Morn Wilbur Fisk Osborne Hubbard Burton ? Aaron
Show more(323) Christopher Page H(?) Benjamin Sherwood Gurnee Willbur Fisk Jonston Kelsey Frank Currier Morn Wilbur Fisk Osborne Hubbard Burton ? Aaron Rittenhouse T George Whitaker Nathan Willis Wilder Richard Harmon Williams William Henry lee of the class of 1860 It is recommended that the Degree of Master of Arts also be conferred on Frederick William C? a graduate of Union College and on George Lansing Taylor a graduate of Columbia College. (324)
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Title: Joseph Cummings papers, Box 1, Folder 016: Annual Report 1873-1874, p. 14
Creator: Cummings, Joseph, 1817-1890
Text: (464) of the year about $10 000 was derived from temporary sources one of which ended this year and the other next year. By a recent arrangement $2000
Show more(464) of the year about $10 000 was derived from temporary sources one of which ended this year and the other next year. By a recent arrangement $2000 of the ten is secured and it is [\page] 1873-1874 92 hoped that arrangements may be made to secure a part of the balance. The plans contemplated and promises made contemplate an expenditure of several thousand more. It is safe to say that the plans entertained contemplate an expenditure of $15 000 beyond reliable income. It is said that if the expense is incurred the necessity will be soon felt and noticed and gifts will be given. Under certain circumstances such as have existed in the history of this institution such a course would be wise but it is doubtful whether a demand exists that will justify an expense many judicious persons will regard
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