January Meeting 1826
At a Church Meeting of Bullittsburgh held the first Saturday January 7th 1826.
Brother Absalom Graves ModeratorA complaint by Brother Early against brother Elijah (belonging to Wm. H. Gaines) formerly to bro. Wm. Cave, for profane swearing and Dancing, taken up, he not present, brother Rob't Cornelius is Appointed to cite him to next meeting.
Motion by brother Absalom Graves that we set a part a day of humiliation fasting & prayer, on account of great declension of religion; and the chastening rod of the Lord on us, in withholding the refreshing showers of rain and also the bodily afflictions of some, while others have been called from among us: taken up and agreed to & appointed Wednesday 18th of this month for that purpose, and to meet at ten oclock.
Brother John Graves departed this life on the 8th last month aged 88 years
Attest R. Graves Clerk - Absalom Graves Mod'r
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February Meeting 1826 At a Church Meeting of Bullittsburgh held the first Saturday February 7th 1826.
Brother James Dicken ModeratorBrother John Rofs infomred the Church that he had drank spiritous liquors to excefs more than once, and had acted imprudently particularly towards one of the brethren: taken up, and found guilty of sin; but on his making a satisfactory acknowledgement is restored.
Letters of dismifsion on application is granted to the fololowing brethren and sisters to wit Stephen Bradley & Margaret Bradley his wife, Eli Morehead & Sally Morehead his wife.
Whereas Sister Nancy Parks & Sister Salley Castle have moved acrofs the ohio River in Indiana, and have not applied for letters of dismifsion, nor been with us for some considerable time; Brother Wm. B. Ewing is appointed to see Sister Nancy Parks and brother Benj. G. Willis to see sister Sally Castle, and know the religious state of their minds, and why they have not taken letters of dismifsion, or attended with us at meetings: and make report thereof accordingly.
The reference respecting brother Elijah taken up, he not present, and brother Cornelius who was appointed to see him, reported favourably as to the state of his mind, it is continued till next meeting.
Attest R. Graves Clerk - James Dicken Mod'r
March Meeting 1826 At a Church Meeting of Bullittsburgh held the first Saturday March 4th 1826.
Brother Robert Kirtley ModeratorThe reference respecting brother Elijah taken up, and he failing to attend or to give satisfaction is Excluded
Upon application letters of dismifsion is granted [to] Sister Jane Early & Bro. Hugh Norris.
On motion it is agreed that the brother Deacons be appointed to apportion among the free white male members of this Church a sum between fifteen and twenty Dollars & report the same at our next meeting -
Bro. John Willis is reported to have died a few days since -
Attest R. Graves Clerk - Robert Kirtley Mod'r
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April Meeting 1826 At a Church Meeting of Bullittsburgh held the first Saturday the first day of April 1826.
Brother James Dicken ModeratorThe Brethren deacons made report that they had agreably to the Order of this church apportioned the sum of nineteen dollars Sixty two & one half cents upon the free white members Of this Church, which report is received & accordingly
Upon application letters of dismifsion are granted to Sister Nancy Parks, Bro. Robert Terrill & wife - Bro. Jefse Terrill, Benjamin Terrill, William Terrill - Sister Judith Terrill - & Sister Ushey belonging to Bro. R. Terrill -
On motion it is agreed that Brethren George Gaines & Absalom Graves Jr. be appointed to purchase Two thousand feet of plank for the purpose of making seats for the next Afsociation - and after the afsociation is over to make sale of the same and to report accordingly -
Bro. Edw'd Graves moved the church to take into consideration the propriety of appointing another deacon to this church. The matter was taken up - & it is agreed that we appoint one and as to the matter of choice - it is refered unto the next meeting.
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
Attest R. Graves Clk - James Dicken Moderator
May Meeting 1826 At a Church Meeting of Bullittsburgh held the first Saturday in May 1826, the 4th day of May.
Bro. Robert Kirtley ModeratorThe reference respecting the appointment of another deacon was taken up — and Brother Joseph Botts chosen to fell that office, Who consenting to Serve — upon motion of Bro. Edw'd Graves It is agreed that the ordination of Bro. Botts take place at our next mont[h]ly meeting on the Sabbath —
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
Attest A. M. Leek Clk protem. - Rob't Kirtley Moderator
[p. 136]
June Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meeting house 1st Saturday 3rd of June 1826.
Brother Robert Kirtley Moderator
A letter is received from the Church at Sparta in Indiana (by Bro. Parmer) requesting this church to send them helps to afsist in the Ordination of Bro. N. Richmond to the ministry on Saturday before the 4th Lords day in July next. The matter was taken up, and it is agreed to answer their request by sending them four helps, and Brethren Rob't Kirtley Winfield Early, Edw'd Graves & Joseph Botts are appointed to attend them accordingly.
On motion it is agreed that we take into consideration the propriety of posponing the ordination of Bro. Jos. Botts as a deacon on account of the ilnefs of his family - The matter was taken up and continued until our next meeting —
Bro. Joseph Botts informed the Church that a difficulty existed between Brethren Michael Glore & Reuben Graves — The matter was taken up & in consequence of the complicatednefs of the difficulty & by consent of the parties, the following Brethren to Wit Rob't Kirtley, Whitfield Early, Jno Terrill Wm. Kirtley and Joseph Botts are appointd a committee to attend to the matter — and report accordingly.
Cely, a black member of this Church belonging to Bro. George Gaines is reported to have departed this life —
Att R. Graves Clk - Rob't Kirtley Moderator
July Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh on the 1st Saturday & 1st day of July 1826
Bro. Rob't Kirtley ModeratorBro. William M. Gaines laid in a complaint against Bro. Rob't Brown (a member of this church who some time since obtained a letter of dismifsion but yet holds it not having Joined any other church for denying the faith with which this Church holds — and for attending parties and dancing, the matter was taken up, and Bro. Brown being absent, Bro. Wm. B. Ewing is appointed to see him and cite him to attend our next meeting & the matter is posponed accordingly
[p. 137]
July Meeting 1826 Con'dLewis Campbell received by experience for baptism.
Brethren George Gaines & A. Graves Jn'r. who were at our last April meeting appointed a committee to purchase plank for seats for the Afsociation. — Now report to this Church that in consequence of the Scarcity & high price ask'd for planks that they not purchased any —
The committee appointed at our last meeting to see Brethren M. Glore & R. Graves and to labor with them in trying to settle the difficulty which is reported to exist between them — now report as follows — To Wit"That they had attended to the duties afsigned them and were unable to resolve fellowship between Brethren Glore & Graves.The report being received and Bro. Graves being absent the matter as it relates to him on motion is Continued [to] our next meeting — and Bro. Joseph Botts is appointd to see him & request his attendance at our next meeting. —
"And the said committee doth report That Bro. Graves has committed a wrong. — 1st in not paying Bro. Glore his money" 2ndly that he treated Bro. Glore in an unworthyly manner in disputing his word and saying it was not true in some statements —
They also report that Bro. Glore has treated Bro. Graves in an unworthy manner in disputing his word in an unchristian like manner — 3rd In his bringing a suit agst Bro. Graves without taking the Gospel steps —
Bro. Glore being present, and moved to be heard in reply to the charges exhibited against him, which request was granted & he heard in part — On motion it is agreed the investigaiton Cease at present, and that the matter as relates to Bro. Glore be also posponed until our next meeting —
On motion it is agreed that we appoint nine mefsengers totoour next afsociation & also some brother to write our letter to the Afsociation & present it at Our next meeting.
Whereupon Brethren Absalom Graves Jn'r Robert Kirtley Whitfield Early, Edward Graves, Joseph Botts, William B. Ewing William B. Haydon Robert Cornelius Willis Graves are appointed as our mefsengers. and Bro. Absalom Graves Sen'r is appointed to write the letter & to report it at our next meeting.
On motion it is agreed that we appoint two additional moderators to this Church — and that the matter be refered untill our next meeting.
[p. 138]
On motion the subject of Bro. Joseph botts Ordination as a deacon was taken up — and Bro. Botts and Sister Botts his wife being present & farther consulted upon the subject and afsenting to the will of the church - It is now unanimously agreed that the Ordination take place on to morrow evening after preaching, and that Brethren C. Matthews, Wm. Montague & Landon Robinson (they being not present) be invited and requested to aid in the said Ordination — and also if any other preaching brethren be present that they be invited to afsist likewise —
Clarifsa a black member of this church belonging to Bro. A Graves J'r is reported to have died lately
Att W. Graves C.P.T. - Rob't Kirtley ModeratorSunday 2nd July 1826
Bro. Lewis Campbell was baptized by Bro. Rob't Kirtley -
August Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh first Saturday in August 1826
Bro. Rob't Kirtley ModeratorBro. Edward Graves laid in a complaint agst Bro. Bill a black member ^ of this church / belonging to Bro. Jno. Terrill for having absconded from his master — leaving his wife & children and taking up with another black woman belonging to Bro. Terrill and running away with her — the offending member beng now removed out of our reach, & ^ it / being impracticable to deal with him as is customary with us. The matter is therefore taken up — & heard — & he found guilty of sin and excluded.
Bro. Joseph Botts laid in a complaint against Sister Sally Castle for attending dancing parties & dancing and she being absent & living at ^ such / a distance from usandand it being evidently if not impracticable for her to attend Our meetings she however being now in Our vicinity & probably will remain among us a few weeks — On motion it is therefore agreed that a committee be appointed to see Sister Castle & to deal & labour with her in relation to her transgressions & request her attendance at our next meeting if possible — Otherwise for the committe to act n behalf of the church with her more fully, and report the result of their labours with her — Whereupon Brethren David Mosby, William M. Gaines, Robert Kirtley and Nathan Bullock is appointed a committee for that purpose
[p. 139]
The reference respecting Bro. Rob't Brown was taken up he being absent - (and yet retaining his letter of dismifsion) It is agreed be continue this refrence until our next meeting - and that Bro. Wm. B. Ewing be appointed to See Bro. Brown and request him to give up said letter and also to attend at our next meeitng —
The reference respecting the charges exhibited against Bro. Reuben Graves was taken up, he being present & heard, is by a vote of the church found guilty of doing wrong as charged - and therefore the reference respecting the charges exhibited against Bro. M. Glore was taken up he being present and heard is by a vote of the church is found guilty of doing wrong as charged - and neither of the said brethren giving entire Satisfaction an[d] motion[ed] both cases are refered and posponed until our next meeting -
The letter prepared for this Church to the next Afsociation was produced - read - and approved -
The reference respecting the appointment of two additional moderators is posponed until our next meeting________ Our Brother Elder James Dicken having departed this life on the 10th day of June last. After an illnefs of five weeks of a severe fever aged forty one years - He was born in Madison County Virginia of respectable parents Who removed to this neighbourhood about the year 1800 and within a few years they both died, leaving a large family among whom were several small children, the education and burden of whom principally devolved upon their brother James who in 1808 married a respectable young lady in the neighbourhood by the name of Peggy Ann Cloud both of whom made a profession of Religion early in 1811, & Join'd Bullittsburgh Church — soon after which his great anxiety for the promotion of Christs Gospel and the salvation of souls was so far manifested that he occasionly was constrained to exercise his gift publicky by prayer and Exhortation — However the undertaking appeared to be so great that he for a while yielded and surrendered its weight — and declined exercising in public until the year 1818 — When it appeared as if the heavenly spark or gift which had been so long lying hidden and concealed broke forth and vented a fresh —
HeHe with much less timidity went forward in publick worship and with a kind of holy boldness, pressed forward in the ministry meeting with every encouragement that the church and brethren generally could give him and above all he was evidently succoured from above. In July 1819 he was licensed by the church to preach the gospel of Christ which he did with such success and approbation that on the 3rd day of June 1820 he was by the church & helps from other churches regularly ordained to the ministry
[p. 140]
in which capacity he acted until his death, faithfully Orderly Zealously and succefsfully which much endeared him not only to the members of this church but to the brethren generally throughout the Whole circle of his acquaintance — He was a man of excellent abilities had a good english education & of fine appearance, and address, and much adorned with the graces of the holy Spirit, entirely sociable and naturally humane and agreeable in every way. and had a peculiar faculty and aptnefs in administering comforts both spiritual & temporal to the sick and afflicted, Often visiting the widows, & houses of mourning and distrefs, and from his childhood never used any ardent spirits whatever and generally enjoy'd good health —We feel the loss sensibly, and we feel as though it was ours, but gain to him - He was a striking example to prove that a life of piety, is a life of industry, of peace and usefullness, he was not only eminently usefull in the church and as a Christian, But also as a friend neighbour husband & father —
Therefore as a Church, and as his late neighbours and friends we Join Our sister his pious widow their dear children & relations in lamenting his lofs - And do earnestly desire that his piety morality and Exemplory life conversation and admonitions may long be remembered and make suitable & lasting impressions upon our minds generally, so that our lives may in a good degree be spiritually liken'd unto his — and his God would be our God both in time and in Eternity.
________ Bro. Elijah Kirtley from the Church at the forks of Gunpowder in behalf of that church made application for helps to attend their church on the 3rd Saturday in Sept'r next to afsist them in the Ordination of Bro. Jno. S. Carter as a deacon. the matter is taken [up] & agreed to answer their request whereupon Brethren James Graves, Whitfield Early & Williiam B. Haydon are appointed as helps to attend them accordingly.
On motion it is agreed that it now be entered upon a record "That Bro. Joseph Botts was on the 1st Sunday in July last solemnly Ordained as a deacon in this church. agreably to the resolution of this church at our last meeting["] —
[p. 141]
It is now reported to this church by the helps Who were appointed by this church to attend the church at Sparta in Indiana on the 4th Saturday in last month, to afsist in the ordination of Bro. N. Richmond to the ministry that the ordination of Bro. Richmond took place — to the entire Satisfaction of all Who were present. —
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
Attest W. Graves C. P. T. - Rob't Kirtley Mod'r
September Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh first Saturday in September 1826
Bro. Rob't Kirtley ModeratorBro. Edward Graves informed this church (that through Bro. Beverly R. Ward of Indiana and also by a certificate from Bro. Ward which was read) that Bro. Michel Lyons late a member of this church, who rec'd a letter of dismifsion from us near two years ago, has not join'd another church & that he lives near Bro. Ward about 75 miles distance from us, and that he has been in the habit of profane Swearing & becoming intoxicated — On motion is taken up and it is agreed that Our Clerk write a letter to Bro. Ward requesting him to see Bro. Lyons and inform him that this Church has rec'd Complaint against him and for Bro. Ward with Other Brethren to deal with him in a gospel manner and request his attendance at our church — And to inform us by letter or otherwise the result of their labour with him
The Brethren appointed at our last meeting as a committee to see & deal with Sister Castle in relation to the complaint laid in against her — reported that they had attended to the duties afsigned them — That sister Castle acknowledged herself guilty of the charges alleged against her — and remarked that she had for a long time neglected attending the meetings of religious persons, and that her conduct had been such that she Ought to be excluded — and that she did not evince a sufficient sorrow for it — upon which report she is found guilty of sin — and she not being present or giving satisfaction in any way is Excluded.
The reference respecting Bro. R. Brown was taken [up] & on motion it is refered until our next meeting
[p. 142]
The reference respecting the charges exhibited against Bro. Reuben Graves, To wit: for not paying Bro. Glore his money and for treating Bro. Glore in an unbrotherly manner in contradicting his word was taken up, and he being present and fully heard & admitted he had done wrong & exprefsed his sorrow for it which gave satisfaction to the church as to those charges & he restored accordingly
The Reference respecting the charges against Bro. Glore. To wit for treating Bro. R. Graves in an unbrotherly manner in disputing his word in an unchristian ^ like / manner and for bringing suit against him before taking the Gospel steps with him — was taken up, and he being present & fully heard, who admitted that he had done wrong & exprefsed his sorrow for it which gave satisfaction to the church as to those charges & he restored accordingly —
The reference respecting the charges exhibitd by the committee against Brethren M Glore & R. Graves for not having fellowship for each other was taken up and they being both heard — and a very great desire being exprefsed by the members of the church generally for both [?] brethren to try & bear with each other, and to endeavour in as great a degree as pofsible to have fellowship for each other & for them to pray to the Lord for helpthin restoring their fellowship — upon their agreeing to try to comply with the desires of the church they exprefsed
The matter is thus indefinitely posponed hoping that the lord will shew them the errors of their way. & enable them when with each other, & that they may again be united in the unity of the Spirit _ ___ ___ ___ in Christ Jesus
The reference respecting the appointment of two additional moderators was taken ^ up / and upon motion agreed to be Discontinued.
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
W. Graves C.P.T. - Rob't Kirtley. Mod'r.
[p. 143]
October Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh first Saturday in October 1826
Bro. Robert Kirtley ModeratorThe reference respecting Bro. Michael Lyons taken up and on motion it is continued until our next meeting
The reference respecting Bro. Rob't Brown taken up (and his letter of dismifsion return'd) and he beeing absent and not having given satisfaction — is found guilty of sin and Excluded
Upon application letter of dismifsion are granted to the following Brethren & sisters — Jane Dicken, Amanda Wiggins, Wm. Kirtley & Nancy his wifeBen, also to Sister Polly Deer —
A request is received from the church at Sand run by Bro. Wm. Montague for this church to send them helps at their next church meeting 4th Saturday in this month to afsist them in counsel respecting the Ordination of Bro. W. Whitaker to the ministry. On motion it is agreed that we answer this request by appointing the following brethren to attend them as helps To wit — Robert Kirtley, James Graves Joseph Botts, George Gaines, Whitfield Early and Willis Graves.
It is reported to this church that Bro. Edmund Garnett has departed this life, which event happened on the 11th of Sept. in Virginia he being there on a visit.
Bro. Reuben Graves requests this church to release him from acting any longer as Clerk; and as a deacon in this church upon motion it is agreed that he be released acccordingly — Whereupon the church proceeded to the appointment of a clerk and Willis Graves was chosen to that office. —
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
Att W. Graves - Rob't Kirtley. Mod'r.
[p. 144]
Nov'r Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh first Saturday in Nov'r 1826
Bro. Rob't Kirtley ModeratorThe reference respecting Bro.
Rob't Brown^ Michael Lyons / was taken up, and on motion is continued until our next meeting —
The helps appointed at our last meeting to attend at Sand-run church at their last meeting to afsist in cousel respecting the ordination of Bro. Wm. Whitaker to the ministry, now report that all attended agreeably to their appointment except Bro. Botts who was prevented by the illnefs of his family — and that upon an investigation and consultation among the members of Sand run church & all the helps sent them from various churches it was unanimously agreed that Bro. Wm. Whitaker should be Ordained to the ministry — which ordination took place on the last lords day. —
The helps appointed to attend at the church at Gunpowder to afsist in the Ordination of Bro. Jno. S. Carter as a deacon reports that they attended according to their appointment and that upon consultation it was agreed by all present that the Ordination should take place — Which ordination was posponed in consequence of the bad weather until their last meeting where it took place accordingly —
Agreed to adjourn until next meeeting in course.
Att Willis Graves clk - Robert Kirtley. Moderator
Dec'r Meeting 1826 At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh first Saturday in December 1826
Bro. Rob't Kirtley ModeratorBro. Joseph Botts laid in a complaint against two black female members of this church belonging to Bro. Rob't Kirtley to wit Sister Milley & Lucy for having lived at varience with each other for a considerable length of time and for becoming so violenttoward each other as to have entered into an affray. — The matter was taken up and
andinvestigated — by a vote of the church both are found guilty of sin � and on motion the matter is continued until our next meeting.
[p. 145]
Dec'r Meeting 1826 Cont. The reference respecting Bro. Michael Lyons was taken up and on motion is posponed until our next meeting -
______________
An Obituary notice of the death of Our late Bro. the Rev'd Absalom Graves as drawn by Bro. Robert Kirtley was produced read to the Church and ordered to be RecordedTo Wit "The lives of pious men illustrates the truth of the Christian religion, affording to the eye of an Observer a Striking evidence of the truth of that word, which they profess to believe and teach, also they manifest to the world that they have been with Jesus and the Gospel ^ __?___ / of Christ is both the Subject and Author, is of infinite worth and sufficient encouragement for them in life — In their death they confirm to the believer the consolation apearance that the Lord is their portion, and they are the lot of his inheritance, and in walking through the valley of the shoadow of death, they shall fear no evil, we feel afsured that such evidences were given in the life and death of Our late Brother - He, Absalom Graves was born in the state of Virginia of respectable parents Nov'r 28th 1768 and was from his childhood mild affable and of an amiable disposition, was always willing to disocurage vice & immorality of any kind and introduce peace & harmony and Order amongst his afsociates and acquaintances. His attachment to books, close appreciation of & anxious desire to obtain useful information, also receiving some aid from regular tuition enabled him to become a good english scholar - notwithstanding those natural advantages and acquirements, yet he was like unto his fellow man a sinner by nature, therefore under a broken covenant of works and nothing but the grace of God in christ was sufficient to redeem him from under the curse of the law, and bring him into the liberty of the s on of God, The Lord who is rich in mercy and awakened him to a sense of his situation in the 20th year of his age — and by the teachings of his holy Spirit he was enabled in due time to exercise a saving faith in Christ as the Only Saviour Of Sinners — shortly after was baptized by Elder George Eve and United himself with the Baptist church by the name of the Rapidan Church Madison County Virginia. Sometime after he married a woman of Amiable disposition and respectable family who lived in the Same part of the Country Professing Godlinefs of the Same faith and Order. With whom he lived in Peace and harmony Until death Separated them.
In the year 1797 he removed to Campbell County Kentucky now boone, and joined the Bullittsbugh Church - In 1810 he commenced his ministerial labours though with reluctance and diffidence — in all his deportment he was modest and unafsuming and preaching the gospel particularly careful as not to run into error nor extremes. His manners doctrine and exhortations were well calculated to instruct & feed the flock of Christ particularly the [lambs?] as also the aged and more experienced of the fold - He was regularly set
[p. 146]
set apart by the imposition of hands with united voice by a the council and church of Bullittsburgh to exercise in all the functions of the ministry in the year ____. And was a constant labourer in the gospel vineyard as long as his health & strength would permit. - He had a clear view of the gospel plan of salvation, his discourses were delovered in a plain affectionate manner, and evinced a calm unabating zeal for the succefs of the redeemers Kingdom. He always pofsefsed a lively sense of the Goodness of God towards sinners attributing their salvation to the love of God in Christ, shewing that through the quickening influence of the holy Spirit they were changed from the love of sin to that of holinefs. We may remark also with propriety that there was a particular trait in his character which ditinguished him from many Others, and if there was any part of the work or service belonging to a servant of Jesus that had the ascendency in his mind - it was the propserity of the Chruches, that they might be maintained in peace and purity that all their members might abound in love established in the truth and walk in all the ways of the Lord blamelefs - For the accomplishment of this desirable Object he laboured incefsantly not only in his public ministration of the word but in visiting ____ peace to peace teaching both by precept and example; the beauty and order there was in Brethren dwelling together in love and unity - His particular care for the churches was manifested in all his acts, taking a deep concern& interest in all their affairs, it could be truly said of him that if any member of Christ Suffered he Suffered with it, if any rejoiced ______ he rejoiced. His disposition eminently qualified him for the office of peace maker, useful also in Settling differences and cultivating a Spirit of forbearance, and affection Among Brethren at home and abroad for his acquaintance and labours were extensive — He often visited the Churches belonging to the North Bend Afsociation - as Also Other Chruches Occasionally — and always was received cordially as a Servant of the most high God and under the Smiles of an Auspicious Saviour was enabled to Baptize 347 persons on a profession of their faith - at the formation of the Northbend Afsociation he was One who Composed that body, and was Chosen their Clerk and acted as such for a number of years and then was Chosen Moderator and esteemed as such until his death.In the after part of Nov'r 1825 he was taken with an illnefs but not immediately confined to his bed, and bed and room, and was enabled to preach once or twice the gospel to his surrounding neighbors - and much was exprefsed in appearance, feelings & language for the welfare of Souls and cause of Zion. Which no doubt will long be remembered by Some — In his afflication he suffered much in the flesh with that kind of complicated disease which baffled the best medical skill that could be procured. it was thought colic[?] a complaint of the liver - until a few weeks before his departure his complaint was occasionally of _______
[p. 147]
December Meeting 1826 Cont. and brightened the prospect of his recovery which was pleasing to all who knew him — But those intervals were transient and soon changed to suspended despondency — His bodily sufferings were very great especialy during the night seasons to use his own expressions he often said his feelings were uncomfortable beyond description and far exceeded any thing he had ever conceived of — yet during the whole of his sicknefs he ever manifested a desire to be calm & patient often expressed that he wished entirely to be resigned to the will of God in all his dispensations toward him either in life or in death - and that he had learned much in his affliction - We may here take notice of One whose mind was actively engaged not altogether in sympathising with a pained and enfebled body, but drawn out in anxious desire for the prosperity of Zion the good of sinners and a Special regard for the peace & harmony of the church at Bullittsburgh of which he had been so long a pastor member & a father in Israel - We have great reason to fear the Lord is afflicting us for the Multitude of our transgressions - In taking away from this body two of our highly esteemed esteemed Brothers in the Ministry in so short a time. -
It^ The co__ of this our Rev. Brother / causes the Sons & daughters of Zion to mourn in this as well as in other churches also. who have received much advantage from his labours and _____ instruction - & it is not to be wondered at when such a father & pillar of the Church is removed.Oh Brethren let us endeavor to emulate the examples and remember the exhortations of our departed Brother whom the Lord called home to Himself on the 17th day of august 1826. In leaving a beloved Companion & four children to bemoan the bereavement of such a husband & father all of whom are members in good standing in the Same church which he belonged to when called home to that blefsed world of eternal Glory & felicity to mix & mingle with that unnumerable Company who stand before the throne of God and the lamb clothed with white robes & palms in their hands where there shall be no more death neither sorrow nor crying neither shall there be any more pain. - May we all be prepared for that great change which awaits each individual and qualified by grace divine we Join those that praise God, and the Lamb forever and ever Amen -
And it being reported in this Church that aged & highly esteemed Sister Ann Graves has departed this life ___. It is aggreed that a short sketch of her life & death be ____ reported at our next meeting.
Agreed that on [we] be adj'd until our next Meeting in course
Robt Kirltey Mod'r
[p. 148]
January Meeting 1827 At a Meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meetinghouse on Saturday the 6th day Jan'y 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.Bro. John Rofs laid in a Complaint against himself for haivng become intoxicated & in that state getting into a violent pafsion and acting very imprudently. The matter was taken up, & he heard & found guilty of sin, but upon his acknowledgement & apparent repentance is restored.
The reference respecting bro. Michael Lyons was taken up & although we have not heard from bro. Waard as was requested in the commencement of this investigation - yet from the length of time that has elapsed since this case was taken under consideration - and from some further corraborating circumstances this day rec'd in addition & ^in / confirmation of the charges first made - Whereupon on motion the Church proceed to act in the case, & by a vote Michael Lyons is found guilty of sin & satisfaction not being given he is escluded - and it is agreed that our Bro. Clerk write to Bro. Ward as clerk of the church at flat rock & Who hold the latter given to Michael Lyons what this church has done —
The reference respecting Milly & Lucy was taken up & they being absent , on motion — the refreence is cont'd until our next
It is reported to this church that Bro. Wm. Crifsenberry departed this life a few days ago. —An obituary notice of Sister Ann Graves's death, was produced, read and agreed that it be Recorded — which is as follows:
Our Sister Ann Graves departed this life on the 11th day of Nov. last, aged 85 years, she had been afflicted with the palsy for about nine years, which with old age seem'd to cause her death without any other particular disease or pain — during the whole of her life she uniformly evinced the Strongest disposition to relieve the distress and to strengthen the weak & to comfort the comfortless & to divide the fruits of her labour with the poor, after she embraced the Christian religion her disposition was more associated to Christian Charity — & she invariably exercised it, particularly toward the needy within her knowledge — she seem'd to well recollect "It is more blessed to give than to receive" & it appeared as if "her prayers were heard. Her alms had in remembrance in the sight of God." — for she is as among the first of a numerous family connection who obtained the religion of our Saviour, which was in the year [blank] in Virginia where she then lived & she join'd the baptist Church at Blue Run — In the year 1797 with the most of her family she removed to Kentucky & settled near to & Join'd our church at Bullittsburgh where she continued until her death. from the time of her conversion she manifested the greatest solicitude & continual engagement for the promotion of the redeemers Kingdom on earth, & for its eternal blessings to be bestowed upon the unconcerned generally but more especially upon on those of her own household & offspring in which she was so singallly [blurred] favor'd. Her pray'rs so wonderfully answered so that even in Bullittsburgh church she had the pleasure of living in membership with & said numbered among her Brethren her husband John Graves who died about 11 months before she did aged 88 years — & with ten of her own children — twenty nine of her grand children & two of her great grand children, while nearly every other of her near relaitives & ascendants of sufficient age had join'd other churches of the Same deniomination — Thus with us it may be said that she was not only a mother, but a grandmother & great grand mother in Israel both literally & spiritually speaking, Such was the tendernap of her feelings & peculiarly of her disposition that it always appeared to give her pain & a degree of uneasiness to hear any human being spoken of lightly or disrespectfully, and it is said that she at all times carefully avoided even the rehearsal of any thing that might operate to the injury or prejudice of any person whatever, & unless she could speak well of a person she was silent — rare as it may appear it can be said of her that she stood through life not only blameless in the church but before the world also — never having injured or given offence to anyone but was guided by the wisdom that descends from above & such as was pure [?cible] gentle & easy to be entreated full of mercy & good fruits without partiality or hypocracy.
[p. 149]
February Meeting 1827At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meetinghouse on Saturday the 3rd day of February 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.The reference respecting Milly & Lucy was taken up & they being absent on motion it is cont'd until our next meeting
Upon appreciation it is agreed that Letters of dismission be granted to Bro. Griffin Bonnell & Nancy his wife
Agreed that we be adjourn'd until Our meeting in Course
Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.At a meeting of the Church at Bullittsburgh Meeting house on Saturday the 3rd day of March 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.The Reference respecting Milly & Lucy was taken up and Lucy being Present & heard and she giving satisfaction is restored — and Milly being absent & not able to attend Our meeting on motion the reference as to her is continued
On motion of Bro. William B. Haydon it is agreed that we take into consideration the subject of our free males members absenting themselves and failing to attend our church meetings — and it is further agreed, that we send for such, when it may be deemed expedient
Bro. Edw'd Graves reported to this church that Bro. Pem Price has absented himself & failed to attend our church meeetings for a considerable length of time. It is agreed that Bro. Willis Graves be appointed to see Bro. Price upon the subject & report to our next meeting —
Bro. William ^ M / Gaines also reported that Bro. Wm Weldon has absented himself & failed to attend our church meetings for some considerable length of time.
It is agreed that Bro. Wm. M Gaines be appointed to see Bro. Weldon upon this subject & report to our next meeting
Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course
. Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 150]
April Meeting 1827At a church meeting for the church at Bullittsburgh Meetinghouse On Saturday the 7th of April 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.Bro. Clifton Hensley laid in a complaint against himself for have been guilty of becoming intoxicated with spiritous liquors several times — The matter was taken & he heard by a vote of the church he is found guilty of sin — and failing to give satisfaction is suspended —
The reference respecting Milly was taken up - & she being absent & unable to attend our meeting — on motion it is agreed that the reference be continued
Bro. Pem Price attended agreeably to the request of our last meeting & gave the church satisfaction for his absence —
The reference respecting Bro. W. Weldon was taken up. Bro Wm Graves reported that he had seen him & that it was his wish to attend to day but was out of his power, it is therefore cont'd —
Upon application , It is agreed that a letter of dismifsion be granted Bro. Taylor Cave.
A request from the church at The forks of Gunpowder was rec'd for helps to attend them on the third Saturday in this month to give them and in a matter of difficulty respecting Bro. Wilson — upon consideration it is agreed to send six of our members as helps upon that occasion. To wit Brethren Robt. Kirtley Winfield Early, Edw'd Graves Rowland Botts Joseph Botts & Reuben Graves
Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course
. Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 151]
May Meeting 1827At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meeting house Saturday the 5th of April 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.The reference respecting Milly was taken up & she not attending nor able to attend on motion the reference be cont'd until our next meeting
The reference respecting Bro. Hensley was taken up & he being absent the matter is continued until our next meeting —
The reference respecting Bro. W. Weldon was taken up & he being absent the matter is continued until our next meeting —
Bro. Jefse Terrill reported to this church that he had obtained the latter of dismifsion granted to him by this church, but had not found any other church — & that he had removed back into this neighbourhood & wanted to become a member of this church again which was agreed to — & his name enrolled accordingly —
upon application - It is agreed that a letter of dismifsion be granted to Bro. Lewis Campbell
Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course
. Kirtley Mod'rJune Meeting 1827
At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh at their Meeting house Saturday the 2nd day of June 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.The reference respecting Milly was taken up & she being absent & yet unable to attend on motion the reference be continued until our next meeting
The reference respecting Bro. C. Hensley was taken up & he appearing & giving satisfaction is restored
[p. 152]
June Meeting 1827
The reference respecting Bro. W. Weldon was taken up & he being present & gave Satisfaction to the church —
Bro. John N. walton was rec'd by letter
A letter was received & read from the church at Mount Zion in Missouri written by Bro. Uriel Sebree setting forth that Bill a black man and an excluded member of this church who formerly belonged to Bro. Jno. Terrill had been removed to the neighbourhood of their church, and that Bill had related to their church a desire to become a member with them, and given them a statement of the cause for which he was excluded — and they request of this church to give them a statement of Bills standing while in this church, and also give them liberty to do with Bill as their church might think best — It is agreed that said letter be answered by giving them the standing of Bill as a member when he was with us & in doing which, to give it as it appears upon our records & that the church at Mount Zion be at liberty to act at their discretion in relation to receiving Bill in Union with them — and if any member of this church knows certainly of any improper act of Bill's which has come to his knowledge since Bills exclusion any such member is at liberty to add it to said letter — and Brethren Rob't Kirtley & Willis Graves are appointed to prepare and forward said letter — [The churchbook of November, 1812 refers to Bill's exclusion.]
Upon application - It is agreed that a letter of dismifsion be granted to Bro. Nathan Bullock & his wife —
Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course
;Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 153]
July Meeting 1827At a Church meeting for the church at Bullittsburgh on Saturday 7th July 1827.
Bro Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r.The reference respecting Milly was taken up - and it appearing that she is as yet unable to attend our meeting — on motion the reference be continued until our next meeting —
It is agreed that we now choose by private ballot, some brother to write our letter to the approaching afsociation, and also six ^ of our / members as mefsengers to said afsociation. Whereupon Brother Willis Graves is appointed to write the letter — and Brethren Robt. Kirtley Whitfield Early Edw'd Graves Joseph Botts George Gaines & Willis Graves as mefsengers to bear it —
It is reported to this church that Sister Nancy Boswell who not long since obtained a letter of dismifsion from us, has departed this life before she Join'd any other church.
It is also reported to this church that Sister Sally Graves daughter of Bro. James Graves has departed this life a few days since —
On motion It is agreed that in our letter to the Afsociation We request the appointment of a yearly meeting at Bullittsburgh Meeting house on the 3rd Saturday [-] Munday in Oct next.Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course Rob't. Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 154]
August Meeting 1827At a Church meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meeting house 1st Saturday in August 1827.
Bro Robert Kirtley our Moderator being absent & Bro. William Whitaker of Sandrun church being present & invited acted at ModeratorThe reference respecting Milly was taken up and she being present & heard and giving satisfaction she is restored to fellowship
The letter to the afsociation was produced & read and approved, and it is agreed that in our request for a yearly meeting the time be changed to the 5th Saturday and Sunday inOctSeptember
Agreed that we be adjourned until our meeting in course
William Whitaker Mod'rSept. Meeting 1827
At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh Meeting house 1st Saturday in Sept'r 1827.
Bro Robert Kirtley Mod'rThere being no business of any description introduced for the Church to act upon It is agreed that we be adjourned, & do invite Brethren Harris & Whitaker to preach to us Att
Willis Grves Clk
Robert Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 155]
October Meeting 1827At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh meeting house on Saturday the 6th day of October 1827.
Bro Robert Kirtley Mod'rUpon application, it is agreed that letters of dismifsion be granted unto Bro. Anthony M. Leek & his wife. Also to Sister Lavina Stephens —
The Brother Deacons made ^ a / report to the church relative to the funds of the church in their hands which is received, by which it appears that they have paid out to the amount of $19.37 1/2 cents —
And on motion it is agreed by the church that the Bro. Deacons apportion a sum from $15.00 to $20.00 on the free white males members of this Church and make report to our next meeting —
Brother Martin Lantz brought in a complaint against bro Clifton Hensly for detaining a mare that he said Hensly had swapt away to said Lantz, said John a minor, the matter was taken up and investigated and he found guilty of sin and failure to give satisfaction is suspended. —
Robert Kirtley Mod'rAt a church meeting for the church at Bullittsburgh on Saturday the 3rd day of Nov'r 1827.
Bro Robert Kirtley Mod'rBro. John Barnard & Sister Elizabeth Barnard his wife rec'd by letter.
The Bro. Deacons made a report of the apportionment in which the sum of $19.87 in apportionment among the free male members of this church which report is rec'd by the church accordingly
It is reported to this church that Bro. Charles McCarty one of our members has lately departed this life
On motion of Bro. James Graves it is agreed we take in consideration the propriety of appointing one or more moderators that matter was taken up. & after consideration it is agreed to appoint two additional moderators — & on motion it is agreed that the matter of appointment be refered until our next meeting —
The reference respecting Bro. Hensly was taken up & he being absent on motion it is agreed that it be posponed until our next meeting
Agreed that we be adj'd
Robert Kirtley Mod'r
[p. 156]
Dec'r Meeting 1827At a meeting of the church at Bullittsburgh meeting house 1st Saturday in Dec'r 1827.
Bro Robert Kirtley Mod'r
The reference respecting Bro. Hensly was taken up he being & heard, and not giving satisfaction to all he is still suspended & the matter accordingly continued until our next meeting —
The reference respecting the appointment of two additional moderators was taken up, & on motion it a___ that a vote be taken, by private poll, which being done & Brehren Joseph Botts & Edward Graves having the highest number & a majority of the votes. They are thjerefore appointed as the two additional moderators of this church —
On motion it is agreed that bible be purchased for the use of the church and that Bro. Robert Kirtley be appointed to procure such a one he may think will best suite& the Bro. Deacons of this are to pay for it —
Bro. Reuben Graves made application to this churchforfor a letter of dismifsion for himself and his wife, the granting of which letter to Bro. Graves to opposed by Bro. Michael Glore upon this grounds, that he has not fellowship for Bro. Graves & that his fellowship has never been restored for him since the former diffiuclty between them in this church — upon motion it is agreed that this matter be posponed until our next meeting With this requisition of Bro. glore that he take proper steps to restore his fellowship with Bro. Graves if pofsible before our next meeting and if it is not restored that he make out his charges in writing and exhibit them at our next meeting —
Agreed that we be adjourn'd
Robert Kirtley Mod'rTest - Willis Graves CK _________________ [From the Boone County Public Library, Main Branch, Burlington, KY. Typed from the microfilm copies by Jim Duvall.]
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