Address at the Re-Dedication of the Fourth Meetinghouse of the First Church in Salem, Mass., December 8, 1867 - Softcover
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This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1867 Excerpt: ... This letter indicates that important differences, "touching the outward form of God's worship," had been reported as existing between the two infant colonies, but that, as will always be found to be the case, they disappeared under the influence of friendly conference. The spirit, expressed by Endicott, must be regarded as prevalent among the people here, and we may safely receive it, as an authoritative announcement of the basis upon which this church was shortly after constructed. It was not founded upon a dogmatic creed, but upon a unity of brotherly affection,--"one and the same heart, guided by one and the same spirit of truth,"--"a heavenly and unfeigned love." AVTiere this is, such differences of opinion on particular points, as existed between the brethren of Plymouth and Salem, or any differences whatever, whether of form or speculation, cannot disturb fellowship; but, on the contrary, "there can be no discord," "nay, must be a sweet harmony." It is proper to bear in mind that, at that time, there probably was no substantial difference of opinion, on questions relating to what we understand by doctrines. The general system of dogmatic divinity, although not perhaps in all respects so sharply defined as it subsequently became, then as now popularly called "orthodoxy," was everywhere received. Truth and justice, in all their bearings, and especially as to the points now to be urged, require this to be kept in view. In the latter part of June, the fleet containing1 the three ministers just named, began to arrive, and with them another, the Rev. Ralph Smith. Things were now in readiness for the establishment of a church, and Endicott appointed a day for the work. Fortunately an account of the proceedings, from an eye-witness and participator in them, h...
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