Southern Christian Advocate

MISSIONS:--SYSTEMATIC OPERATIONS.

The subjoined communication, though probably not originally intended for the public eye, we take the liberty to present to our readers. It is from a gentleman of Columbia, S. C., distinguished for his truly catholic spirit, and for the munificence of his contributions in the cause of Christian benevolence. The statements made in this communication will not only be matter of encouragement to our laborious Secretary, but will afford a worthy example to all our circuits and stations.

Extract of a Letter, dated Columbia, S. C., Jan. 10, 1842.

Whilst on the subject of Missions I would remark, that in looking over Dr. Capers' statement of collections, as given in the last Advocate, I observe he expresses a hope of having excited an interest in the cause of missions which may be more valuable than the amount of collections, merely in themselves considered.

I have no doubt, many instances have already come to his knowledge, giving good ground for such a hope; but should you have him with you soon, you may inform him of another from Columbia. When he was here about a year ago, after having (according to his custom) taken up a collection, he remarked in the presence of one of our official brethren, that much as he was pleased with what was then done, he was more desirous to see the churches adopt some regular and systematic course, by which every member of the church might give something, if even the smallest amount. This induced the official brother mentioned above, to bring the matter before the next quarterly conference, at which, resolutions were adopted, forming themselves into a society auxiliary to the annual Conference society, and recommending to the several classes pertaining to this station to become Branch Societies, leaving the amount to be subscribed, optional with each person, the smallest amount being sufficient to constitute them members. The Secretary of the quarterly conference sent a copy of these resolutions to each leader of a white class (there being then but seven). All of them have acted more or less in the matter, one single class contributing almost as much as had been previously done in former years by the whole church here. The subscriptions varied in amount from 12 cents to $10 each, and will unitedly, reach near $300 for the current year, which sum we hope, will be fully made up by the annual collection yet to be taken up. This collection was directed by the resolution of the same quarterly conference to be attended to at the close of each Conference year, on which occasion a Missionary Sermon is to be preached; and as this will give all the friends who do not belong to the classes, an opportunity of contributing to this good work-it was concluded to dispense with our former plan of monthly collections and to substitute the above plan, which we have found to do well.

I have no doubt such facts coming to Dr Capers' knowledge, would help to strengthen his hands in this labour of love; and should similar improvements in effort become prevalent within the bounds of our church, an "indebted missionary treasury" or even an "empty one" would soon be amongst the things that were. I am, dear sir, yours, with Christian regard,

Robt. BRYCE.