Pursuant to appointment, the Eldership met in the bethel in Findlay, Hancock county, Ohio, Thursday, September 28, 1876. The opening sermon was preached on the evening previous by Elder S. Kline. The chairman, Elder James Neil, called the house to order. Devotional exercises were conducted by Elder B. Ober, of the Illinois Eldership.

      The chairman and clerks being present, the roll of minutes was called and the following members were found present:
      Wm. Adams, J. W. Aukerman, C. N. Belman, W. P. Burchard, S. Chamberlain, J. M. Cassel, S. Dickerhoof, T. Hickernell, Thomas James, Adam Kline, S. Kline, T. Koogle, G. T. Kimmel, T. J. Lewis, H. M. Lynn, S. Lilley, I. Little, M. C. Mowen, J. H. McNutt, Aaron McNutt, James Neil, Joseph Neil, W. H. Oliver, E. Poling, J. A. Plowman, Isaac Steiner, D. Sands, J. A. Smith, A. J. Thompson, J. V. Updike, D. S. Warner, G. W. Wilson, E. H. Yeisley.

      The following brethren came in after the Eldership was constituted:
      M. Gault, J. S. McKee, J. P. Miller, A. Resh. E. Rowlison, A. J. Warren.

      Absentees--J. Briggle, J. A. Dobson, D. Delcamp, E. Hartman, H. Linebaugh, John McNutt, Jacob Myers, C. Now, William Peters, Jas. Richard, P. J. Russel, John Wilder, D. Walker.

      The ruling elders and delegates from the different circuits, stations and missions were then enrolled.
      Findlay Station--Henry Shuler, John Furguson, ruling elders.
      St. Mary's Circuit--John Shaffer, ruling elder; Michael Deniston and John H. Coil, delegates.
      Mercer County Circuit--John Gile, T. Runkles, Joseph Miller, ruling elders, and Lafe Now and I. G. Baker, delegates.
      Pleasant Hill Circuit--E. Messenger and Milton Marsh, ruling elders; S. Morrel, delegate.
      Maumee Circuit--P. Skates, ruling elder; K. Skates, delegate.
      Lenawee Circuit--N. C. Bennet, Jacob Finger, ruling elders; S. R. Low, delegate.
      McComb--J. W. George, Samuel Bolton, ruling elders; Isaiah George, delegate.
      Seneca Circuit--M. S. Artman, John Grall, Wm. Mowry, ruling elders.
      Bloom Circuit--John Low, A. Frederick, delegates.
      West Unity--J. F. Fox, ruling elder.
      Wyandotte Circuit--M. W. Larcomb, Joseph Fernbaugh, ruling elders.
      Ottawa Circuit--Not represented.
      Williams County Circuit--John Beaver, H. Troxel, ruling elders; Hiram Mott, delegate.
      Toledo Mission--E. Benedam, delegate.
      Van Wert Mission--Jacob Wise and D. W. Riley, ruling elders.
      Paulding Mission--D. W. Carr, ruling elder; John Anderson, delegate.
      Henry County Mission--David Finkenbiner, ruling elder.
      Ashland Circuit--G. F. Mitchell, G. W. Ferguson, ruling elders.
      Mohican Circuit--James Stevenson, delegate.
      Smithville Circuit--Jacob Durstine, ruling elder; Elias Stevens, delegate.
      Copley Circuit--M. Richey, ruling elder; G. Richey, delegate.
      Sugar Creek Circuit--Robert Rowland, ruling elder; H. E. Long, H. Fisher, J. B. Willaman, delegates.
      Stark Circuit--Joel Petry, ruling elder.
      Wadsworth Mission-Jacob Showalter, ruling elder.

      The enrolling of the ruling elders and delegates being completed, an election for speaker and clerks was then held, resulting in the choice of Elder J. W. Aukerman for speaker, Elder T. Koogle first clerk, and Elder G. T. Kimmel second clerk.

      The speaker then appointed the following Committee on Rules of Order: J. V. Updike, S. Lilley, J. F. Fox.

      On motion, adjourned.

      Prayer by Elder J. A. Plowman.

      On motion, Elder W. P. Small, of the Indiana Eldership, Elder B. Ober, of the Illinois Eldership, Prof. Lehr, of Ada, Ohio, and Brother Brady, of Indiana, were received as advisory members.

      On motion, all the brethren visiting here from time to time to be received as advisory members.

      The chairman then announced the following committees:
      On Devotion--H. Shuler, John Furguson.
      On Resolutions--J. M. Cassel, I. Little and D. S. Warner.
      On Business--W. P. Small, W. P. Burchard and J. A. Plowman.
      On Overtures--J. V. Updike, Jas. Neil and S. Dickerhoof.
      On Journals--Joseph Neil, H. W. Lynn and Isaac Steiner.
      On Religion--J. S. McKee, George F. Mitchell and M. C. Mowen.
      On Licenses--James Neil, S. Lilley and Isaac Steiner.
      On Obituaries--W. H. Oliver, T. James and B. Ober.
      On Education--G. W. Wilson, H. S. Lehr and E. Poling.
      On Temperance--Joseph Neil, D. W. Carr and J. H. McNutt.

      On motion, the Committee on Education report this (Thursday) evening.

      On motion, the Committee on Temperance report to-morrow (Friday) evening.

      The Committee on Rules of Order then submitted the following rules of order, which were adopted:
      1. The Eldership shall hold three sessions per diem--morning, afternoon and an evening session.
      2. The morning session to commence at eight and a half o'clock and close at eleven and a half o'clock A. M.
      3. The afternoon session to commence at one and adjourn at four o'clock P. M.
      4. The evening session to commence at seven o'clock P. M., and adjourn on motion.
      5. The business of the Eldership shall be conducted in the following manner:
      1. Reading and correcting the Journal each morning.
      2. Reports of committees.
      3. Unfinished business.
      4. New business of a general character.
      The following shall be the manner of conducting debates:
      1. The previous question cannot be called only when seconded by five members.
      2. No speech shall be longer than ten minutes.
      3. No person shall be allowed to speak more than twice on the same question, except by a two-thirds vote of the Eldership.
      4. No motion shall be in order while another is pending, except to amend, strike out, or adjourn.
      5. No needless walking or talking allowed, neither chewing nor spitting tobacco in the house of God.
      6. No member of this body shall be permitted to leave the house without permission of the same.
      7. No charges shall be brought against any member of this body without previously consulting him.

J. V. UPDIKE, S. LILLEY, J. F. FOX,             Committee.

      On motion, the reports of preachers were called for. The following brethren reported:
      Wm. Adams. Report received and license renewed.
      J. W. Aukerman. Report received and license renewed.
      C. N. Belman. Report received and license renewed.
      J. Briggle, reported by G. F. Mitchell. Report received and license renewed.
      S. Chamberlain. Report received and license renewed.
      J. M. Cassel. Report received and license renewed.
      J. A. Dobson, reported by T. J. Lewis. Report received and license renewed.
      S. Dickerhoof. Report received and license renewed.
      D. Delcamp, reported by E. Rowlison. Report received and license renewed.
      T. Hickernell. Report received and license renewed.
      W. P. Burchard. Report received and license renewed.

      Adjourned with benediction by Elder Joseph Neil.

      Prayer by --------.

      On motion, we proceed to hear the reports of preachers until the Committee on Education are ready to report.

      Elder Thomas James reported. Report received and license renewed.

      The Committee on Education then arose and submitted the following report, which was adopted:
      WHEREAS, God has created man an intelligent being, and has endowed him with an immortal mind capable of endless improvement and progression; and
      WHEREAS, It has been enjoined upon us by our Creator to improve our minds and seek knowledge; and, further, that we believe that it is to the best interest to the great cause of primitive Christianity and of the Church of God to promote the cause of education; therefore,
      Resolved, That in the estimation of the committee the church should take immediate measures to procure means wherewith either to build a school at some favorable place, or else to purchase one already built which could be procured on reasonable terms.
      Resolved, That we further believe that in no other way can we so effectually build up the church and retain the children of our brotherhood than by establishing an educational institution to be owned and controlled by the church, where our young men and women seeking an education can obtain the same and still be under proper religious influence.
      We respectfully recommend to Eldership to appoint a committee to adopt some measures to attain the desired end, and also to entertain any offers that may be made to the Eldership, and to examine any properties that may be offered for sale.

G. W. WILSON, JOHN F. FOX, H. S. LEHR,             Committee.

      Immediately after the adoption of the above, a request was received from Mother Miller, of this place, and who is seriously afflicted, for the joint prayers of this body, whereupon the Eldership at once proceeded to offer prayer in her behalf, led by Elder G. W. Wilson, after which the following committee was appointed to adopt the measures referred to in the report of the Committee of Education: Elders G. W. Wilson, G. T. Kimmel and D. S. Warner.

      On motion, Bro. Davis was permitted to make a statement relative to certain business that he was appointed to transact by the Standing Committee of the West Ohio Eldership. After hearing the statement the following motion was passed:
      That the thirty dollars received by the Eldership from Bro. Davis be paid to Eldership treasurer to be placed with the Permanent Fund.

      On motion, the hearing of the preachers' reports was resumed, when the following brethren reported:
      Adam Kline. Report received and license renewed.
      T. Koogle. Report received and license renewed.
      S. Kline. Report received and license renewed.
      G. T. Kimmel. Report received and license renewed.
      T. J. Lewis. Report received and license renewed.
      H. M. Lynn. Report received and license renewed.

      On motion, adjourned. Benediction by A. Kline.

      Prayer by Elder T. James.

      Journal of the previous day was read and corrected. In correcting the Journal an objection was raised against N. C. Bennett being a member of this body, on account of not being legally and properly elected elder. Therefore, on motion, a special committee was appointed to investigate the case above referred to. James Neil, G. F. Mitchell, Samuel Bolton, W. P. Burchard and S. Chamberlain constitute said committee.

      Reports of committees being in order, the above committee reported as follows:
      Your committee to investigate the case of Bro. N. C. Bennett, after hearing the evidence, decide that Bro. Bennett is not properly an elder in the church.

JAMES NEIL, Chairman. S. CHAMBERLAIN, Sec'y.

      Report adopted.

      Committee on Devotion reported preaching on Lord's day and evening at the following places by the following persons:
      Presbyterian Church--Morning, J. S. McKee, and in the evening, G. T. Kimmel.
      English Lutheran--Morning, Jas. Neil, and in the evening, I. Little.
      Congregationalist--Morning, H. E. E. Long, and in the evening, T. Koogle.
      U. B. Church--Morning, D. S. Warner, and in the evening, J. A. Plowman.
      Evangelical Church--Morning, J. V. Updike, and in the evening, S. Lilly.
      M. E. Church--Morning, B. Ober, and in the evening, J. M. Cassel.
      Hickory Grove--Morning, E. Poling.
      Church of God Bethel--Morning, T. Hickernell, and in the evening, B. Ober.

H. SHULER, J. FURGUSON,             Committee.

      Adopted.

      Committee on Overtures reported.
      I. Letters referred to the Eldership:
      1. From Zechariah Garrison.
      2. From John Wilder, containing his report.
      3. From John Bowers, Mercer, Mercer county, Pa.
      4. From Elder J. P. Russel, containing his report.
      5. From J. P. Winebrenner, of Chicago.
      6. From R. H. Bolton.
      7. From parties of Pleasant Valley.
      II. The following letters were referred to the Stationing Committee:
      1. A letter from Upper Sugar Creek.
      2. A letter from Stump's Bethel.
      3. A letter from Hartsville.
      4. A letter from Canton.
      5. A letter from Rising Sun.
      6. A letter from Martin Station.
      7. A letter from Smithville.
      8. A letter from Monroe.
      9. A letter from Cedar Valley.
      10. A letter from Snyder's neighborhood.
      11. A letter from Greensburgh.
      12. A letter from Seneca circuit.
      13. A letter from Shenandoah.
      14. A letter from West Salem.
      15. A letter from Brother Miles, of Mansfield, Ohio.
      16. A letter from Colton, Henry county, Ohio.
      17. A letter from Newman's S. H.
      18. A letter from Reedsburg.
      19. A letter from Madisonburg.
      20. Letters received commending the labors of J. B. H. Kauffman. Referred to Committee on License; report received.

      On motion, the letters referred to the Eldership be now read.

      On motion, that the letters containing preachers' report be deferred until preachers' reports are called for. The report was then adopted.

      The Committee on Journals reported. Report received and then laid on the table.

      On motion, that the reception of the new organization effected by Bro. Garrison in Lucas county, near White House, be left to the discretion of the next circuit preacher.

      The reports of preachers being called for, the following brethren reported:
      H. Linebaugh. Report received and license renewed, with instructions that he preach all he can.
      S. Lilley. Report received and license renewed.

      Adjourned, with benediction by Elder W. H. Oliver.

      Prayer by Elder A. Kline.

      Reports of preachers being in order, the following brethren reported:
      Aaron McNutt. Report received and license renewed.
      James Neil. Report received and license renewed.
      M. C. Mowen. Report received and license renewed.
      I. Little. Report received and license renewed.
      Joseph Neil. Report received and license renewed.
      M. Gault. Report received and license renewed.
      C. Now. Report received and license renewed.
      W. H. Oliver. Report received and license renewed.
      E. Poling. Report received and license renewed.
      William Peters. Report received, license renewed, and a transfer granted him to the Kansas and Missouri Eldership.

      On motion, the regular order of business was suspended to make some provision for getting blank licenses printed. The following was then passed:
      On motion, that Elder J. M. Cassel act as a committee of one to get one hundred blanks printed, and that the expense of the same be paid out of the Eldership Contingent Fund.

      The regular order of business was then resumed, and the following preachers reported:
      James Richards. Not heard from. License renewed and placed in the hands of the Standing Committee until he reports.
      Isaac Steiner. Report received and license renewed.
      D. Sands. Report received and license renewed.
      J. A. Smith. Report received and license renewed.
      J. V. Updike. Report received and license renewed.
      D. S. Warner. Report received and license renewed.

      On motion, the Standing Committee report its proceedings relative to the East Ohio Eldership this (Friday) evening, after the Committee on Temperance reports.

      Adjourned. Prayer by Elder S. Dickerhoof.

      Prayer by Elder J. S. McKee.

      According to previous action, the Committees on Temperance arose and submitted the following report:
      WHEREAS, We, the members and especially the ministers of the Church of God and of the West Ohio Eldership, occupy a very high position; therefore, we are under the most solemn and sacred obligations to abstain from all sin and from the very appearance of evil; and
      WHEREAS, intemperance is a giant evil, dealing but death almost everywhere over this broad land; therefore,
      Resolved, That we, as a body, in every way discountenance the manufacture, sale and use of intoxicating liquors; and further,
      Resolved, That each preacher in charge of circuit or station be required to preach at least one sermon at each point on his field of labor against this great evil that is causing so many broken-hearted mothers and widows and orphans in our land.

JOSEPH NEILX, D. W. WCARR, JOHN H. MCNUTT,                   Committee.

      After a number of stirring speeches, the above report was unanimously adopted.

      The next business in order was the hearing of the report of the proceedings of the Standing Committee relative to the transferring the East Ohio Eldership, with its interests, into the West Ohio Eldership. Report received, considered item by item and adopted.

      On motion, the regular order of business was suspended to hear a report from Elder W. P. Small, of the Indiana Eldership. Report received.

      On motion, the West Ohio Eldership, now in session, send greetings by Elder Small to the Indiana Eldership.

      Elder B. Ober, of the Illinois Eldership, was then called on to report.

      On motion, his report was received; after which the chorus, "O come, angel bands," in connection with the beautiful lines, "My latest sun is sinking fast," &c., was sung to good effect.

      On motion, we send greetings to the Illinois Eldership by Bro. Ober.

      On motion, adjourned. Benediction by Elder W. P. Small.

      Prayer by Elder J. A. Smith.

      The committee appointed to get one hundred blank licenses printed reported.
      Report adopted.

      The Standing Committee reported.
      The actions of its first meeting were adopted.
      The actions of its second meeting were adopted.
      The acts of its third meeting were considered item by item.
      Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 adopted.
      Item 10 not adopted.
      Items 11 and 12 adopted.

      On motion, Bros. M. C. Mowen and C. N. Belman have leave of absence.

      Adjourned. Prayer by Rev. Pope, of the M. E. Church.

      Prayer by Bro. John Bolton.

      The report of the Standing Committee relative to its action with regard to receiving the organization at Upper Sandusky was not adopted.

      On motion, the report of the Standing Committee be adopted as whole.

      On motion, the Rev. Mr. Sanderland, of the Presbyterian Church, and Rev. Mr. Cocklin, of the Evangelical Church, be received as advisory members.

      On motion, the Eldership treasurer, Bro. E. Messenger, report. Received and referred to an Auditing Committee.

      On motion, the following committee, consisting of J. A. Smith, S. Chamberlain and Jacob Durstine, was appointed to audit the treasurer's accounts.

      On motion, that the receipt given by W. P. Turk for a missionary note that was placed in his hands for collection, be given to the preacher in charge of Henry county mission the coming year, and that he return said receipt to W. P. Turk, and receive the note that was placed in his hands, and the preacher in charge of the mission aforesaid collect the note if possible.

      On motion, the resolution of the Board of Missions of the General Eldership at its last meeting relative to the collection to be taken in all the churches in the different Elderships in the month of November next for missionary purposes, be adopted.

      On motion, that Elder S. Dickerhoof conduct the fellowship meeting on Sunday morning.

      On motion, the committee appointed to audit the treasurer's accounts report; whereupon the following was respectfully submitted:
      Report of the Treasurer of the West Ohio Eldership of the Church of God:

      Your Auditing Committee on the treasurer's report have examined the accounts, notes, etc., and find them correct in every particular.

JACOB DURSTINE, J. A. SMITH, S. CHAMBERLAIN,                   Committee.

      On motion, adjourned. Prayer by H. E. Long.

      Prayer by Elder W. H. Oliver.

      Reports of preachers being called for, the following brethren reported:
      E. Hartman, reported by Elder E. Poling. His report was adopted and license renewed.
      J. S. McKee. Report adopted and license renewed.
      J. P. Miller. Report adopted and license renewed.
      E. Rowlison. Report adopted and license renewed.
      J. A. Thompson. Report adopted and license renewed.
      J. Wilder, reported by letter. Report adopted and license renewed.
      David Walker. Report adopted and license renewed.
      E. H. Yeisley. Report adopted and license renewed.

      On motion, adjourned. Benediction by Elder J. P. Miller.

      Prayer by Elder E. Rowlison.

      Committee on Business reported. Report adopted, and the items of business were taken up and acted upon at the proper time as specified in Rules of Order.

      On motion, that Aaron McNutt receive fifteen dollars out of the mission funds.

      On motion, there be a special committee appointed by the Eldership to investigate matters relative to the reception of the church in Upper Sandusky into the Eldership, and that their decision be final. Whereupon the Eldership appointed the following persons: Jacob Durstine, George Furguson and M. Richey.

      On motion, that said committee meet at Upper Sandusky, and that the parties interested pay the traveling expenses of said committee to said meeting.

      The above committee then made the following announcement to be inserted in the Journal, which was granted:
      Your committee appointed to go to Upper Sandusky to adjust certain difficulties, would name Thursday, the 9th day of November, 1876, at 10 o'clock A. M., to meet for the purpose above named, provided we are notified that the funds are raised to defray our expenses.

(Signed,)

JACOB DURSTINE. M. RICHEY.

      Adjourned. Benediction, by Jos. Neil.

      Prayer by Bro. M. W. Larcomb.

      On motion, the regular order of business was suspended to hear reports of preachers. The following brethren reported:
      John McNutt. Report received and license renewed.
      John H. McNutt. Report received and license renewed.
      John A. Plowman. Report received and charges having been preferred, his case, was, on motion, referred to a special committee for investigation, and their decision to be final; whereupon the chairman appointed the following persons: James Neil, S. Chamberlain, J. M. Cassel, Joseph Neil, and A. Kline.
      P. J. Russell reported by letter. Report received and license renewed.
      A. J. Warren reported. Report received and license renewed.
      G. W. Wilson reported. Report received and license renewed.

      On motion, the Committee on License report at eight o'clock this (Monday) evening.

      On motion, that there be a man appointed to canvass the territory of the West Ohio Eldership; and further,
      On motion, that his duties shall be to collect interest now due, gather cash and take notes, and that he visit the churches, and that he send his appointments previous to his coming.

      On motion, that the members of the Standing Committee receive the amount of their expenses out of the Eldership funds, as follows:

      On motion, H. Shuler receive three dollars and sixty cents out of the Eldership funds to defray expenses to Standing Committee meeting.
      On request of Bro. H. Shuler, the above three dollars and sixty cents be appropriated to the mission funds of the West Ohio Eldership.

      Adjourned. Benediction by Elder Isaac Steiner.

      Prayer by Elder E. Poling.

      On motion, Rev. Miller, of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, be received as an advisory member.

      On motion, that there be one hundred copies of the system of co-operation printed.

      On motion, that there be a committee appointed to draft permanent rules of order to be printed in connection with the system of co-operation. The chairman appointed the following persons to constitute said committee: G. W. Wilson, D. S. Warner and S. Lilley.

      On motion, Bros. Lynn, Roland and others were permitted to make statements relative to matters at Lower Sugar Creek, after which the following preamble and resolutions were adopted:
      WHEREAS, The Lower Sugar Creek Church has refused the ministerial labors of Elder H. M. Lynn, the regularly appointed preacher; and
      WHEREAS, they have employed an expelled preacher; therefore,
      Resolved, That we do most sincerely regret that they have thus shown their utter contempt of the proper authority of the Church of God, and ignored all her law and order; and
      Resolved, further, That all who have taken a position against the properly appointed preacher and in favor of any expelled man, have done a great wrong, from which we admonish them in the future to desist; and further,
      Resolved, That all who in the future discountenance expelled ministers and receive the regularly appointed preacher and support him shall be forgiven for past offences and be retained in the church.

      According to a previous motion the Committee on license submitted the following report:
      WHEREAS, A number of persons have appeared before your committee as applicants for a license to preach the gospel; and, whereas, we have thoroughly examined them separately; therefore,
      Resolved, That we recommend to your favor the following named persons as being qualified for the gospel ministry and worthy a license from this body: H. E. Long, D. W. Carr and S. R. Low. And further, that the following named persons be advised to improve their talents: J. B. H. Kaufmann, J. B. Willaman, J. W. Turbit, T. Metzler, J. C. Colwell, A. Gracy and T. J. Ratebaugh.

JAMES NEIL, ISAAC STEINER, S. LILLEY,                   Committee.

      Adopted.

      On motion, the parties receiving a license be addressed by Elder T. Hickernell.

      On motion, that a committee be appointed to apportion the amount of money assessed on the West Ohio Eldership by the Corporate Board for the establishing of a Corporate Board Contingent Fund, said committee to apportion the amount to be raised (which is sixty dollars) to the several circuits, stations and missions.

      Committee appointed to consist of G. W. Wilson, Joseph Neil, W. H. Oliver.

      On motion, that the Stationing Committee consist of one person from each circuit, station and mission.

      Adjourned.

      Prayer by --------.

      On motion, Rev. Rose, of the U. B. Church, be received as an advisory member.

      Committee on Obituaries reported:
      WHEREAS, After looking back over the Eldership year that has just closed we learn that three of our number have passed away from our ranks, Bro. John Beidler and Bro. Peter Hartman, who were among the first fruits of the ministry of God's word in this State and for many years they have both stood in connection with the East Ohio Eldership as ministers of the gospel; also Bro. Wm. Clay, of Celina, Mercer county, Ohio, and at the time of his death Probate Judge of Mercer county, who served as ruling elder in the Church of God at Anderson Bethel for several years with good satisfaction to the church; also our much esteemed Sister Neil, wife of Elder James Neil, who, after a long and serious illness, fell asleep in her blessed Jesus--"Asleep in Jesus' blessed sleep"--therefore,
      Resolved, That this body deeply sympathize with the friends in this very afflicting providence in the death of Fathers Beidler and Hartman. Their families have lost kind and affectionate husbands and fathers, the churches and the Elderships will long miss their presence and their wise counsels, the communities in which they resided have lost two of their best citizens; and further,
      Resolved, That we mingle our tears and heartfelt sympathies with our dear Brother Neil. In the death of Sister Neil, our brother has lost a loving and faithful companion, the children an affectionate mother, and the church an exemplary member and a devoted Christian. And further, that we also deeply sympathize with our dear Sister Clay. In the death of Bro. Clay, she has, indeed, lost a very kind husband, the children a loving father, the church a tried and faithful brother, and the town of Celina a good citizen and an honorable officer.
      All of which is respectfully submitted.

W. H. OLIVER, B. OBER, T. JAMES,                   Committee.

      Adopted.

      Special committee appointed to investigate Elder J. A. Plowman's case reported the following: After a thorough investigation, your committee acquit Elder J. A. Plowman from the charges preferred against him and recommend the renewal of his license.

JAMES NNEIL, J. M. CASSEL, S. CHAMBERLAIN, JOSEPH NEIL, ADAM KLINE,                   Committee.

      Adopted.

      On motion, that we adjourn until the Eastern Ohio Eldership Missionary Board transact business and report.

      The East Ohio Missionary Board having adjourned, the Eldership again resumed its morning session.

      On motion, Bro. E. Messenger was elected treasurer of the West Ohio Eldership by acclamation.

      On motion, the following preamble and resolutions, passed by the East Ohio Missionary Board at its session in 1875, be received by the West Ohio Eldership.
      WHEREAS, The East Ohio Eldership, with its interests, is transferred to the West Ohio Eldership, and the two have become one; therefore,
      Resolved, That the Board of Missions of East Ohio proceed with its business as usual, and that it meet with the West Ohio Eldership at its next meeting, in Findlay, Hancock county, Ohio, September 28, 1876, and there make an assignment of the entire missionary interests to said Eldership.

      On motion, the East Ohio missionary interest be transferred to the West Ohio Eldership.

      On motion, the Stationing Committee meet at one o'clock, P. M., of to-day.

      On motion, Bro. Jacob Durstine received leave of absence.

      On motion, adjourned. Benediction by J. H. McNutt.

      Prayer by Elder J. P. Miller.

      On motion, that the following appropriations of missionary funds be made:

      On motion, the Stationing Committee appoint the collecting agent.

      On motion, that a committee be appointed to investigate the legality of the sale of the Hickory Grove church property, and report its proceedings to the first meeting of the Standing Committee. The following were appointed: Henry Shuler, John Heck and Abram. Dillinger.

      On motion, that inasmuch as the church at New Washington is burdened by a debt on the house; and whereas the property is deeded to the Eldership; therefore,
      Resolved, That the minister in charge, or any one they can procure, be authorized to go out over the Eldership and raise the funds to relieve the debt.

      On motion, Elder G. T. Kimmel have leave of absence.

      On motion, that Bro. Kimmel be released from transcribing the Journal and preparing it for publication.

      On motion, the special committee appointed to draft permanent rules of order reported. Report adopted.

      On motion, the following Board of Missions was elected: J. W. Aukerman, chairman; J. F. Fox, clerk; and E. Messenger, treasurer.

      On motion, Elder Wm. Adams received eighty dollars out of the Superannuated Fund.

      On motion, adjourned. Prayer by Elder H. M. Lynn.

      Prayer by Bro. G. F. Mitchell.

      On motion, that our next annual Eldership convene at Smithville, Wayne county, Ohio, on the last Wednesday evening of September, 1877; and on motion, that the opening sermon be preached on the first evening by Elder James Neil.

      On motion, that the Ministerial Association be held at Star Bethel, Wyandotte county, Ohio.

      On motion, that the Ministerial Meeting commerce on Wednesday evening previous to Pentecost.

      On motion, that Elder G. W. Wilson preach the Pentecostal sermon.

      On motion, that D. S. Warner and J. V. Updike be a committee to draft a programme for Ministerial Association.

      On motion, the clerk of the Board of Missions reported:

      On motion, that the Stationing Committee report. The following was then submitted.
      Missionary collecting agent, Isaac Steiner.
      Findlay Station--J. V. Updike.
      Stark Circuit, consisting of Stump's Bethel, Canton, New Berlin, Tritt's Bethel, Greensburgh and Hartville--T. James.
      Copley--Copley, Upper Sugar Creek, Moreland and Cedar Valley--S. Dickerhoof.
      Sugar Creek--West Lebanon, Lower Sugar Creek, Walnut Creek, Stone Creek and Shanesville--H. E. Long.
      Smithville--Smithville, Wooster and Madisonburgh--S. Kline.
      Mohican--The Brick, Lattasburgh, and West Salem--H. M. Lynn.
      Ashland--McKay, Vermilion, Briggles, Shenandoah and Blooming-grove--D. S. Warner.
      Williams County--Primrose, Melison, South Bridgewater, North Bridgewater, Amboy, Nettlee Lake and Southwright--D. Sands.
      West Unity--West Unity, Lick Creek, Figley's, Clay and Warfields S. H.--W. P. Burchard.
      McComb--Olney, Belmore, Jackson, Blanchard, Bolton's, Marclay's--E. Rowlison.
      Maumee--Waterville, Colton, Enterprise, Reed's, Skates and Freedom--E. Poling.
      Mercer County--Neptune, Fairview, Berry's, Now's, Reservoir, Wabash and Yaney's S. H.--Jos. Neil.
      St. Mary's--Anderson Bethel, Mt. Olive, Union Chapel, Beldon's and Lichty's--T. Koogle.
      Ottawa--Crane Creek, Martin Station, Stulter S. H., Locust Point and Sugar Creek--Aaron McNutt.
      Lenawee--South Riga, McCormick's S. H., Riga Center--C. N. Belman.
      Bloom--Bloom Center, Denver, Rising Sun and SUgar Grove--E. H. Yeisley.
      Sandusky--Rock Run, Indian Mills, Eden Center, Smith's S. H.--J. A. Smith.
      Wyandotte--Salem Bethel, Starr Bethel, Kirby and Night's S. H.--J. S. McKee.
      Pleasant Hill--Morraltown, Pleasant Hill, Deadening, Windfall and Rush Creek--J. M. Cassel.
      Crawford County--West Liberty, West Auburn, New Haven, Delphi and Conley's--S. Lilley.
      New Washington--New Washington, Center, Union Bethel, Hopewell, Newman's S. H.--G. W. Wilson.
      Henry County--Cummon's S. H., Farrison's, Turkeyfoot and Florida--D. W. Carr.

      Paulding Mission--Fasts, Tucker's, Flat Rock, Anderson and St. Andrews--A. J. Warren.
      Van Wert--Sugar Ridge, Wolf Ridge and the Brick S. H.--J. P. Miller.
      Wood County--Snydertown, Milton Center, Sixteen--no one--To be supplied.
      Wadsworth Columbiana county--J. A. Plowman.
      Mansfield--W. H. Oliver.
      Lexington--Lexington, Lucas and Perrysville--I. Little.

T. HICKERNELL, Chm'n. J. M. CASSEL, Sec'y.

      Adopted.

      Committee on Resolutions reported:
      WHEREAS, It is a fact that there is a great dereliction in the duty of the deacons, resulting in much of the suffering of preachers and their families; and
      WHEREAS, the office of deacon is of divine appointment, being authorized in God's word; and
      WHEREAS, they are elected by the church with the view that they shall meet the important duties of the office; therefore,
      Resolved, That we solemnly admonish the deacons throughout the Eldership to diligently perform their duty, beginning early in the year and soliciting aid from every body in the community. Further,
      Resolved, That we remind them that God will hold them accountable for much of the suffering and embarrassments of his ministers.
      WHEREAS, The subject of ordination by laying on of hands is a matter on which there is a diversity of opinion; and
      WHEREAS, a large number of brethren have sent a petition for an expression of opinion; therefore,
      Resolved, That ordination by laying on of hands is scriptural.

I. LITTLE.

      WHEREAS, We are very much pleased with THE CHURCH ADVOCATE, and greatly appreciate the labors of the editor, Elder C. H. Forney, and the assistant editor, Bro. H. C. Demming; and,
      WHEREAS, our worthy editors are subject to much toil in preparing and selecting matter for the paper; therefore,
      Resolved, That we urge all who have the time and the ability to write original articles for the paper, And further,
      WHEREAS, the price of THE ADVOCATE is so extremely low, which makes it absolutely necessary, for its financial interests, that the circulation be increased, and which also brings it within the reach of everybody; therefore,
      Resolved, That we urge that no family be without the paper; and,
      Resolved, further, That we all make every endeavor to increase its circulation.
      WHEREAS, Our Eldership meeting has been much larger than any herefore; and,
      WHEREAS, we have all met with the greatest kindness and openhearted benevolence from the brethren and people with whom we have lodged; therefore,
      Resolved, That we are unable to express the deep gratitude of our hearts for all this expression of love and kindness; and further,
      Resolved, That from our grateful hearts we will invoke the blessings of God upon them.
      WHEREAS, We have been favored with a very appreciative visit from Elder B. Ober and Elder W. P. Small; therefore,
      Resolved, That these brethren have our hearty thanks for their visit and good counsel, and that we cordially invite them to return again.
      Resolved, That the chairman and clerks have out thanks for the faithful performance of their duties.

J. M. CASSEL, D. S. WARNER, I. LITTLE,

Committee on Resolutions.

      Adopted.

      The following was offered by Elder H. E. Long.
      Resolved, That this Eldership require all the preachers in charge of a field of labor to report the number of Sabbath-schools within the bounds of their several charges, together with the amount of money collected for Sabbath-school purposes, and that the same be a part of their annual report.
      Adopted.

      On motion, That this Journal be published in THE CHURCH ADVOCATE.

      Inasmuch as the Committee on State of Religion failed to report, the following motion, that Elder T. Koogle be a committee of one to make out a report, was adopted; whereupon the following was submitted:
      WHEREAS, God has in the past year abundantly blessed the joint labors of his ministers and people over our entire Eldership in the conversion of many precious souls; and
      WHEREAS, the Church has been built up, her numbers increased, and God's people have been greatly encouraged; and
      WHEREAS, the spiritual condition of the local churches is generally good; and
      WHEREAS, the principles of the Church of God are gaining prominence; therefore,
      Resolved, That we return our heartfelt thanks to God for his blessings in the past, and trust his grace for the future; and further,
      Resolved, That we, as ministers of the Church of God, apply ourselves diligently to the great work in the future, and that we earnestly solicit all the laity to aid in carrying on the great work of the salvation of souls; and,
      Resolved, further, That, as in the past, we adhere strictly to the principles of the Church of God.

      On motion, that there be three hundred dollars Superannuated and Contingent Funds raised this year.

      On motion, that the Standing Committee, at its first meeting, apportion the above amount to be raised to the several fields of labor.

      On motion, an election was held for a Standing Committee, when the following brethren were elected: Jas. Neil, J. M. Cassel, E. Messenger, S. Kline and T. Koogle.

      On motion, Bro. J. F. Fox was appointed to receive the books and papers of the East Ohio Board of Missions.

      On motion, that Bro. J. Durstine be authorized to collect all accounts connected with East Ohio Board of Missions.

      On motion, that the missionary books be placed in the hands of the collecting agent.

      On motion, that Bro. Warner make a statement relative to the Mansfield mission; after which the following was adopted:
      WHEREAS, There are two thousand dollars wanted immediately to meet the demands on the Mansfield mission house; therefore,
      Resolved, That each member in the Eldership proceed at once to raise one dollar for each member.
      Resolved, That all over two thousand dollars raised in this way be appropriated to the New Washington bethel.

      On motion, the Eldership adjourned to meet at Smithville, Ohio, on the last Wednesday evening of September, 1877. Benediction by T. Hickernell.

[The Church Advocate 41 (November 8, 1876): 2-3.]

      T. Koogle's "Journal of the Twentieth Annual Eldership of the Church of God in West Ohio" was first published in The Church Advocate, Vol. 41, No. 28 (November 8, 1876), pp. 2-3. The electronic version has been transcribed from a copy of the article printed from a microfilmed edition of the newspaper held by the State Library of Pennsylvania. Thanks to Adams Memorial Library for arranging for the interlibrary loan, and to St. Vincent College Library for the use of its microfilm reader/printer.

      Pagination has been represented by placing the page number in brackets following the last complete word on the printed page. Inconsistencies in spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and typography have been retained; however, corrections have been offered for misspellings and other accidental corruptions. Emendations are as follows:

                  Printed Text [ Electronic Text
 -----------------------------------------------------------------------
 p. 2:      No member [ 6. No member
            made to the Elkership, [ made to the Eldership,
            preacher's reports [ preachers' reports
            I. Littlle. Report. [ I. Little. Report
            transfering [ transferring
            Received an referred [ Received and referred
 p. 3:      And futher, that we also [ And further, that we also
            is transfered [ is transferred
            be transfered [ be transferred
            Findly Station-- [ Findlay Station--
            WHeREAS, they are elected [ WHEREAS, they are elected
 

      Addenda and corrigenda are earnestly solicited.

Ernie Stefanik
Derry, PA

Created 6 May 1999.
Updated 15 July 2003.