have enough of services on Sunday, and it should be our business to lead them, if possible, to love these things, and not frighten them away. Therefore, we see that religious services will not altogether avail. If we wish to keep our hold upon the seniors, we must provide something in the way of secular entertainment for him. But will not that be going to the other extreme? By no means; because, if good is to be done, it must be kept in its proper place, and much prayer will be needed that nothing be allowed to creep in which would be inconsistent in its connection with the Sunday-school.

This something is found in the "Mutual Improvement Society," which gives both teachers and scholars opportunity for that social intercourse and improvement which they could not otherwise have.

Within this last winter this scheme has been very successfully tried at Soho Chapel Sunday-school, and not only have teachers and scholars shown a lively interest in the society, but many older friends from church and congregation have sought to share in the advantage it offers. The senior scholars have particular interest in the movement, because not only are they invited to take part in the proceedings, but are also represented on its committee. At the close of the first session, it appears from the roll book of the Soho Chapel Mutual Improvement Society, that eighty members had joined, thus showing that its formation had met an existing want. So convinced are we of this need, that we say, "No Sunday-school should be without its 'Society.'

JOHN A. HINTON, Superintendent.

EBENEZER CHAPEL, RICHMOND STREET, BRIGHTON.

THE annual new-year's meeting in con nection with the Sunday-school was held on Tuesday, January 4th. About 300 persons sat down to tea in the large schoolroom at 5.30. At seven a public meeting commenced, presided over by the venerable pastor, Mr. I. Atkinson. After singing, and prayer offered by Mr. T. Read, a number of handsome books were presented by the superintendent, Mr. H. Cozens, to scholars who had distinguished themselves, by punctual attendance and good conduct, during the past year. This agreeable business finished, Mr. W. L. Payne addressed the meeting. He adverted to his personal knowledge of the cause for many years, and reminded the people

of their deep obligations to God for continuing a faithful ministry in their midst for so lengthened a period. He trusted that none of them might ever live to see the day when anything other than the truths that had been constantly proclaimed there, should be sounded forth in Ebenezer. Mr. E. Mitchell, of Guildford, an old scholar, followed with expressions of sympathy and love for the old home, and a short address. Mr. T. Read came next with a few kindly and encouraging words, and the meeting was brought to a close by the chairman. Our esteemed brother, though evidently suffering from weakness, appeared to feel a glow of thankfulness and satisfaction in his soul. He said schoolboys are taught to write, "Honesty is the best policy:" he was persuaded this was eminently true in a religious sense. At Ebenezer there had been no tampering with the truth to make it palatable or popular; there had been no resort to adventitious means to swell the congregation, but the simple gospel had been alone relied on. For twenty-nine years his predecessor had declared its truths faithfully; for nearly twenty-seven years he had been favoured to follow the same course. The results were gratifying. God had owned and honoured His own word; and, as he looked upon the present meeting, he thought it afforded no bad illustration of the truth of the schoolboy's motto, "Honesty is the best policy."

The spacious schoolroom was filled with people. The children sang several pretty pieces, and the whole meeting was of a pleasing and encouraging character. Our only source of regret being the failing strength of our esteemed brother, who has so well, and for so long a time, sustained the pastoral office at Ebenezer.

E. M.

ENON CHAPEL SUNDAY SCHOOL,
WOOLWICH.

THE Annual Meeting of Teachers, Scholars, and Friends, connected with the above school was held on Thursday, December 30th. After the Scholars had enjoyed a bountiful tea in the school room, they met the friends in the chapel and had a most enjoyable meeting. About 20 scholars gave recitations from the Word of God, and other carefully selected pieces; many being exceedingly good and well rendered. Mr. Squirrel, of Meopham, presided, and gave an interesting address; taking for his subject, Grandfather's

blessing, referring to Jacob blessing the sons of Joseph. After a short address from the superintendent, and a few remarks from two brethren, this happy and successful meeting was brought to a close

with an earnest prayer that the blessed truths imparted to our dear scholars may be conveyed by Divine power to their hearts, and to our triune God be all the glory.

MOUNT ZION CHAPEL, HILL STREET. ON Tuesday, January the 5th, 1881, our Annual Church Tea Meeting was was held, which differs from others in the fact that it is confined to members of the church. The object of our thus gathering together, is principally to afford an opportunity of enquiring after oneanothers' welfare, whereby each is able to evince that interest in the whole body, which tends to promote union and mutual encouragement in the earthly pilgrimage, Having had, by the grace of God, to sever many of our worldly companionships, it is well to use every means and effort to cultivate a spirit of loving sympathy and regard toward all of those with whom we are brought into fellowship in the Church of Christ. At this meeting, likewise, a retrospect is taken of God's gracious dealings during the preceding year; it brings to our minds mercies that fill the heart with gratitude, and reminds us of the necessity for continued prayer and dependance on the Lord for the future; thus our love, and hope, and zeal, are inspired and increased. Might not many of the churches who have not adopted the plan of having an annual gathering of this nature with advantage do so? At our meeting on Tuesday a tea was provided at 5.30. We had a very large attendance, many of our country members came to unite with us. No charge is made for the tea, but the expense is defrayed on the voluntary system-the poor members being requested to pay nothing, in order to give an opportunity for their wealthier brothers and sisters giving a little extra to make up for their lack. After the tea the meeting was opened with singing, our esteemed pastor, Mr. G. W. Shepherd, then read Psalm lxxxvii., and commented thereon. Bro. Buckoke engaged in prayer, after which our pastor addressed the church in some affectionate and congratulatory remarks. In the ordinary way various brethren would have been called upon to speak or pray, but this time our

meeting took a turn of a very practical character. It had been stated by Bro. Wilson, that the amount required to meet the cost of our late improvements had been realized within about £116,-a very energetic and liberal brother thereupon rose and said that it had occurred to him, and it was his wish, that the debt might be cleared of that night, to effect which, he offered to give certain sums, provided other members joined to raise the remainder. To this the members generally and readily responded; and before the evening closed, the debt had been cleared off, amounting altogether to about £1152, which has been accomplished within 18 months. Not unto us, not unto us; but unto the Lord be all the glory; who put it into the heart and within the power of His people to do this; and it has been done we feel sure in His fear, and from love to Him and His cause.

This business being concluded, our pastor gave us some very interesting statistics regarding our past history from the opening of the place up to and including our present position. The meeting concluded by singing "All hail the power of Jesus' name."

J. H.

BETHESDA, NOTTING HILL GATE. DEAR SIRS,- -"The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad." This may truly be said by the church meeting for worship at Bethesda (late Silver-street) Chapel, Notting Hill gate. On the first

Sabbath of the New Year I heard from the lips of our dear pastor, Henry Brown, a most heart-cheering, and soul-comforting discourse, found on Jer. vi. 16, "Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls." In speaking to some of the friends after the service, I was grati fied to find that they spoke very highly of our pastor, both ministerially and personally. The week night services are

well attended, especially the prayer meetings, and on the last occasion in the old year there were at least forty present. I am happy to inform you that our esteemed pastor is being made by God an instrument in calling sinners out of nature's darkness into the glorious liberty of the children of God. The pool has been twice opened since his pastorate, and it is expected to be opened again shortly; this, with additions from other churches of the same faith and order, has increased the number of new members to nearly twenty. The Sabbath-school, under the superintendence of Brother Green, is well attended, and is in a flourishing condition. By him I am informed that there are at least 100 scholars in the school, that he has a most efficient staff of teachers, most of whom are members of the church, and take the liveliest interest in the welfare of those committed to their care. The Bible-class, taken by Brother Green himself, is composed chiefly of adults, and the whole school, down to the infant class, is one of which he has no reason to be ashamed. The union of church and school is a distinguished feature, our superintendent being an officer of the church, and nowhere are his brother officers, or pastor, more welcome than in the school. thought such cheering news as this ought to be communicated to you for publication, that all who love the Lord may rejoice with me, and unitedly praise His name for ever.

Yours faithfully,
A LOVER OF ZION.

I

BROMLEY ROAD TABERNACLE, BURNT ASH HILL, LEE, KENT. THE recognition services of Mr. Isaac Levinsohn as the pastor of the above church took place on Wednesday evening, January 12th. In the afternoon, Mr. Langford having given out the hymns, Mr. Anderson preached an instructive and soul-reviving sermon to a good congregation, who listened to the discourse with delight. At the evening service J. Whittaker, Esq., occupied the chair. Mr. Elsey, of Hackney, gave out the first hymn. After a few introductory remarks from the chairman, Mr. C. W. Banks, spoke warmly to Mr. Levinsohn, calling to remembrance his first acquaintance and friendship, then asked the newly-elected pastor the usual questions, &c.-call by grace to the ministry, and to the church at Lee. After Mr. Levinsohn's replies, Mr.

Anderson delivered his charge to the pastor, which was listened to with great interest. The charge was full of fatherly advice to the young pastor, solemn_and full of pathos. After which, Mr. John Box delivered the charge to the church, and stated the nature of a gospel church, which was listened to with great interest. The service closed at 9 o'clock, Mr. Whittaker having implored the divine blessing on the proceedings of the evening.

ALDEBURGH BRANCH CHAPEL.

The

ON Monday, January 10th, a very interesting meeting was held in the above place of worship. After singing one of Dr. Watts' psalms, brother Berry, of Friston, implored the Lord's presence and blessing on the meeting. Brother Brown, of Friston, was voted to the chair, and, in his opening remarks, gave some very pleasing reminiscences of his connection with the cause of God in that place, contrasting the difference of the old, dingy, cold chapel, with the neat, comfortable structure in which they were assembled. Referring to the present meeting, he said how thankful we ought to be for our religious privileges and liberty, and the pleasure he felt in being present. Speaking of our dear brother Bland, whose interest in the cause, and through whose efforts the present chapel was erected, deserved their thanks. He was pleased to find that the friends in Aldeburgh had appreciated his services of love. chapel that night being free from debt, he had great pleasure in presenting to our brother Bland a very nice silver-plated inkstand with the following inscription :"Presented to Mr. S. K. Bland as a token of regard by friends at Aldeburgh in grateful recognition of his labours amongst them in deep solicitude for the Lord's honour and glory, and the spiritual welfare of His people.' Brother Bland was taken quite by surprise, thanked them, and expressed the desire that they might see and receive blessings which he nor they could give, namely, the salvation of many souls; which would be his joy here, and his crown of rejoicing for ever-to which we add our hearty Amen. Brother Gill, of Tunstall, next addressed the meeting, expressing the pleasure he felt at being present. As they were meeting in a free house they, like Samuel, could say, "Hitherto the Lord hath helped us." He had not only helped in the past, but His

promise stands good for the future. Speaking of his love for brother Bland, whom he had heard preach when a lad in the Sunday-school, expressed the hope that they might be an aggressive people. After a few words from brother Bland on our principles, and our reasons for strict communion, a vote of thanks to brother Brown, whom we were all pleased to see in such good health and excellent spirits, brought this interesting meeting to a close. Surely we may sing

"These are the joys He lets us know,
In fields and villages below;
Gives us some tokens of His love,
But keeps His noblest feast above."

EDEN CHAPEL, CAMBRIDGE.

On January 6th, 1881, a new year's tea was held, when over 160 sat down to a well-provided and arranged tea; and, to add to the appearance of the schoolroom, some of our young friends had made some very suitable mottoes, taking the texts the pastor preached from on the previous Sabbath day.

new

After tea, the pastor Mr. Jull, in the chair, spoke of a new year's thanksgiving. We had cause to thank God for the mercies of the past year. Also, many had cause to thank Him for new gifts he had bestowed upon them,-such as a new heart, a new spirit, to walk in the “ and living way," which leads to God; also, for the new name" he had given, which the mouth of the Lord should name, and for the prospect he had given us of singing the new and never ending song among the ransomed host in glory.

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A hymn was sung; then Mr. Favell spoke of the Lord's goodness in sending them a pastor; for the peace, and prosperity, and growing acceptance the word had among them; and, as as a proof of it, it was his pleasure to present to their minister a purse of twenty guineas, which had been so cheerfully and heartily subscribed by the friends.

Mr. Jull acknowledged the same with feelings of joy and pleasure at such an unexpected expression of their attachment to his ministry.

Mr. Wilson then gave us an address on social meetings, of which kind he showed there were many to be found recorded in the Bible-also, was pleased to find such a good feeling in our midst.

Then, for a change and contrast, after two aged brethren had spoken, a dear

little fellow, of seven years of age, by the name of Master Ginn, recited a piece, "Home for the holidays," in a most telling manner, to the admiration of all.

Mr. Beale then spoke a few words, taking for his motto, Thank God, and take courage," and introduced to the meeting an aged friend, who had undertaken with the assistance of others, to collect the testimonial, in a humourous speech.

The meeting was brought to a close by singing, "All hail the power of Jesus'

name.

May such a social gathering tend to provoke us to love one another, and unto good works.

BEULAH CHAPEL, FARNBOROUGH, Kent.

THE little cause at this somewhat isolated spot shows pleasing signs of life and activity. The neighbouring villages have for many years been favoured with the ministry of God-sent and God-honouring men. Brother Fremlin, of Foot's Cray, where the zealous Robert E. Sears now labours; and Brother Hamblin, of Orpington, a sphere now worthily occupied by our dear young brother White, are names embalmed in the memories of many godly persons who listened to their savoury and potent expositions of the doctrines of distinguishing grace.

Brother Ballard, at Farnborough, has been much blessed of God in his work. On the 16th of November last, special services were held commemorative of the laying of the memorial stones of the chapel ten years since. The weather was most unpropitious. The long roads that must be traversed by intending worshippers at Beulah, exposes them to the full fury of such storms as prevailed on this particular day; however, the cause did not suffer. Brother Crafter, one of the deacons, writes:-Mr. John Box, of Soho, discoursed to us in very sweet and musical strains in the afternoon, his subject being the "Unity of the Spirit." A comfortable tea was provided for the assembled friends, cheerful fires in the vestry, and hearts glowing with loving zeal for the Lord and His cause, counteracted the influence of the damp and drear aspect outside. The special business of the gathering was to secure the liquidation of a debt due to the treasurer of the building fund, amounting to £30 or thereabouts. A promise on the part of the Metropolitan Association to furnish the

last ten pounds if the other was raised that month, incited renewed efforts on the part of our worthy Brother Ballard and his friends, and resulted in the accomplishment of their desire. Edwin Vinson, Esq., of Paul's Cray, who had been announced to occupy the chair, was absent in consequence of domestic affliction. The worthy pastor, however, efficiently filled the chair, giving an interesting account of the rise and establishment of the cause. The freehold ground on which the neat little chapel, and comfortable minister's house stand, have cost £900, and is in trust for the use of the church holding Strict Baptist principles, and observing the practice of the same. £190 remained as debt, £100 being a loan at interest, £60 a loan from the Metropolitan Association without interest, and payable by instalments in ten years; the remainder being due to the treasurer, and liberal friend of the cause, Mr. Thomas May.

Our Brother Ballard is an outspoken man, and knows how to proclaim the truth once delivered to the saints, in love, and to defend the same with zeal and prudence. This has gained him the respect of many in the surrounding district, who do not agree with our order of things-and, by a few of them, sympathy with him in his labours has been shown in donations towards relieving the church of its pecuniary burdens.

During the evening meeting, at which there was a numerous gathering of friends, Brother Box spoke of the connexion of the present with the past, and remarked upon the fact that although only ten years had elapsed, not one of the dear friends who placed the six memorial stones, now remained on earth; but the good work had not been abandoned, the Lord had raised up others to carry it on. The next speaker, Mr. Golding, of London, dwelt in his remarks upon the Spirit's work in sanctifying the people of God, and the sweet experience consequent upon His divine indwelling and gracious operations. At this stage of the proceedings, the collecting cards and books were called in, and the amount furnished by these means, together with numerous donations announced by the pastor as from friends at a distance, was £21 16s. 6d. Hearty and godly addresses from other friends brought to a close a very profitable and soul-cheering gathering.

HARWICH.

THE members of the Baptist church here have just presented their respected pastor, Mr. Josiah Cowell (late of Chelmsford) with a large handsome writing desk and case complete, as a token of their love and esteem for him, and to mark their thankfulness for the kind Providence that had brought him amongst them. The presentation, with a suitable address, was made by Messrs. Joseph Grice and William Lay, deacons.-Essex Standard, Jan. 14.

FOOT'S CRAY.

THE seventh annual report of our Dorcas and Benevolent Society has just been issued. During the year sixteen meetings for work have been held; and about eighty garments made, and distributed. From the financial statement we learn that the income for the year was £18 4s.-and the expenditure to the sick poor, material for garments, &c., £17 16s.—leaving a balance in hand of 8s.

At our Annual Missionary Meeting, held on Monday, Dec. 6th, the pastor of the church, R. E. Sears, read a statement of contributions received during the year for Foreign Mission work, which amounted, with the contributions received that evening, to £45 19s.-for this we are thankful, but we hope for yet greater results this year. God, in His Providence, has opened doors in almost every nation; and the people are willing to hear the Word. We rejoice to see the missionary spirit reviving in our churches.-Life and Light.

LITTLE STONHAM.

ON Dec. 26th the ordinance of baptism was administered to a female candidate. Our sister was blessed with the presence of Jehovah, the minister much encouraged, and the souls of the people edified and comforted. Glory and praise to His name, who hath not cast off His people whom he foreknew. We trust He is taking one of a city, and two of a family, and bringing them to Zion. There are others who are waiting to put on Christ, and show their love and obedience to their Lord. We have cause to thank our God and take courage.

J.GRIMWOOD..