ed highly desirable, as likely to bring together a great number of the natives, and to accelerate both their civilization and religious instruction. Such was the probable importance of this attempt, that it gained the most cordial approbation of Governor Dundas, who was pleased to honour Dr. Vanderkemp with great assistance in the execution of his plan. The Missionary Read, a very distinguished young man, is united with the Doctor in his labours at Algoa Bay. We have the pleasure of stating, that the Missionary Society at the Cape continue to exert themselves with unabating energy, in promoting the Redeemer's kingdom among the surrounding Heathen. They persevere in their prayer-meetings for this purpose, which they hold in a large building erected for that use; and are about to establish a Missionary Seminary. A similar instituition is forming at Stellenbosch. With heartfelt delight we ȧnnounce our persuasion, that, thro' the instrumentality of this Society, many thousands of the Heathen in Africa are now listening to the joy. ful sound of the gospel; and that more than a few, who were afar off, are brought night by the blood of Christ. A considerable number of the rising generation are under beneficial instruction, and forming for useful stations in civil society. An energy, before unknown, is observable in many of the Christian people; a desire to hear the gospet prevails among multitudes of the Heathen; and our Missionaries are already engaged in preaching to tribes of men, whose name had scarcely reached us. Two more Missionaries are about to depart from Holland; men who have re. linquished the enjoyments of civi. lized society to visit Africa; and spread, in regions almost unknown, the sweet savour of the name of Jesus. The faithful labours of Mr.Hill yard, in Newfoundland, have not been in vain. Twenty-eight persons have been formed into a reli gious society; and about thirty young persons appear to be under spiritual concern. Two missions have been esta blished in North America. Mr. Bentom, who is settled at Quebec, assures us, that there are some precious souls, whose pious conduct obliges him to believe that they have been brought out of darkness into light by his means. Mr. Mitchell, also at New Carlisle, in the Bay of Chaleur, informs us, that the work of the Lord continues to prosper in the midst of opposition. Two praying societies have been formed amongst them; and great attention paid to the rising genera tion. During the two past years the So. ciety has manifested the commendable desire of endeavouring to build, on the ruins of the papacy in France, the divine edifice of pure Christianity; and as the most powerful mean for that purpose, within their reach, was the circulation of the holy Scriptures, they determined to consecrate a part of their funds to this object. Reflecting also on the awful effects of infidelity, they judged it might be of great use to connect with the Scriptures a vindication of their divine authority? This important service has been atchieved in the most satisfactory inanner, by one of their highly respected members. The treaty of peace between the two countries having renewed the means of personal intercourse, it was concluded, that a deputation to France was of great importance, not only in determining on the best mode of printing and circulating the New Testament and the Essay, but also in procuring such information on the state of religion in that country, as would enable the Society to form a judgment on the best means of promoting the interests of true religion there. The result of this visit is generally known, and has produced a hope that the Protestant cause may soon rise from its ruins. The Directors have now the pleasure to announce, that the New Testament, the Essay, the Assembly's Catechism, and some Tracts, are printed, and now in cir RELIGIOUS INTELLIGENCE. culation in France, and will shortly be so in Italy. The necessity of publishing the Scriptures in those Countries is proved, from the great difficulty which the deputation found in procuring a single copy of them at Paris; and they are informed that this is equally the case in Italy. The Deputation having fully ascertained, that an energetic and evangelical ministry would be likely to be well attended and well supported in France, they conceived that the establishment of a Protestant church at Paris, would be productive of The the most beneficial effects. Rev. Mr. Tracy, who was then there, was requested to continue on the spot, to superintend the publications, and to make enquiries respecting a suitable church. Information has been obtained, which proves the almost unlimited extent in which the Scriptures and Protestant writings may be circulated. At Beséncon, in the south; and at Arras, in the north, where, till lately, no Protestants were to be found, applications for Protestant ministers and churches have been made, and signed by 12,000 persons at the former place, and nearly as many at the latter; and although many churches have already been given, to the Protestants, 900 congregations are still destitute, both of churches and pastors. Even in Belgium, the same disposition appears. -- Such are the extensive prospects which Providence has opened; but, in proportion to the magnitude of the object, is the necessity of prudence in the pursuit of it; and as the measures of the Directors must be regulated by the political relations of the two countries, they wait for further light upon this interesting matter, and pledge them selves, that it shall meet that degree of attention which is consistent with the general concerns of the Society, and especially with that regard to the Heathen world which is its most prominent and appropriate object. Having stated the measures which have been taken during the last year, we shall briefly specify the objects which are upon their hearts to pursue hereafter. The Seminary at Gosport, under It will, doubtless, occur to those The Directors cannot conclude without expressing their satisfaction in the persuasion, that a just concern for the honour of the Redeemer, in the conversion of the Heathen, appears to increase among Christians; and their humble hope that it will gradually diffuse itself among all the churches, and produce the most beneficial effects. With sincere satisfaction they recognize the zeal and success of other societies aiming at the same stupendous object, earnestly uniting their common supplications with the Christian world at large, that the blessing of Heaven may attend them all. They cherish the hope that these are all effects, of a Divine impulse on the mind, and a part of the arrangements of an infinitely wise and unM m 2 W erring plan, which has determined the ultimate renovation of the world after a long season of darkness, depravity, and disorder, and is now introducing the dawn of that glorious period which is the favour-, ite theme of prophecy, and the grand consolation of the Christian church. While we endeavour to promote the approach of this de sirable season by every means in our power, we cheerfully refer the event to Him who has reserved the times and the seasons in his own hands; who presides over the vast concerns of the universe; and who can command all its powers, intellectual or material, to accomplish his pleasure and fulfil his word. MISSIONARY COLLECTIONS. ditto L. 54 - Rev. Mr. Bogue and Congregation, Gosport Rev. G. Townsend and Friends, Ramsgate Jos. Surmam and Friends, Chesham Mr. Walker and Friends, Peppard, Oxon. A Society of Private Christians, at Leslie, county of Fite, Bedford Union. Mr. save 42 II Mr. Foster, of Biggleswade, treasurer of the Union, stated the receipts and expences of the past year; which afforded a hope of extending the ineans of usefulness. had been compensated by new openings in others, with prospects of THE Seventh General Meeting of greater success. No hindrance had, the Union of Christians at Bedford, in any instance, resulted from the was held on Wednesday, the 27th diversity of sentiments professed by of April; and the whole of the ser- the various denominations which vice performed at the Great Meet. had united for the purpose of bringing-house. Mr. Fuller, of Kettering the ignorant to a knowledge of ing, introduced public worship, in Christ. the forenoon, with prayer; Hill, of Surry Chapel, preached on 1 Cor. ix. part of 22d and 23d ver. I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means some: and this I do for the gospel's sake." Mr. Farey, of Bluntisham, in Cambridgeshire, concluded with prayer. The members and friends of the Union re-assembled before three, P. M. for conference. Mr. Hill began with prayer. Mr. S. Hillyard, of Bedford, secretary of the Union, read a Report of Tran. sactions during the last twelve months; from which it appears, that the exertions of the members, to maintain public worship in about 100 towns, villages, and hamlets, were continued with unremitted as siduity; and, through the blessing of God, with increasing evidences of spiritual usefulness in most places; notwithstanding some efforts which had been made to oppose the progress of the gospel, Its removal from some of the villages An affectionate and animating ad. dress to the Union of Christians, from the last ministers' conference at Herrnhut, in Germany, was read by the secretary; and likewise an answer, which had been prepared by a committee, and was approved by the assembly. Several resolu tions were then proposed, and unanimously adopted. The business was conducted, and closed with prayer, by Mr. Greatheed, as vice. president of the Union, in the una voidable absence of the president, Public worship was resumed at six P.M.; Mr. John Hillyard, late Missionary in Newfoundland, began with prayer; and Mr. Nicholls, of Kimbolton, in Huntingdonshire, preached from Matthew xxviii. 20, fatter clause; and concluded with prayer, The attendance at this Annual Meeting was more numerous, especially by ministers of various denominations, than on any preceding occasion; and the impression made by the solemn services was evidently powerful and extensive. Mr. Hill had preached at Hadham Cross, Royston, Duxford, Camberton, and Potton, in travelling from London to Bedford. On the evening preceding the General Meeting, he preached in the Moravian chapel, at Bedford; and, on the following, again at the Old Meeting, On his return to town, he also preached at St. Alban's. It is hoped that his visit will be followed by permanent and important benefit to many. Bristol Society, for promoting Religious Knowledge, THE object of this benevolent institution, is to distribute, gratis, amongst the "ignorant, and them that are out of the way," a variety of small Tracts, on the most important religious and moral subjects, As it is their intention scrupulously to avoid whatever is peculiar to any distinct community, they freely invite "all who 'ove our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity," to co-operate with them in this labour of love. In this design they are encouraged, by the good effects which are continually resulting from a similar institution in the metropolis. RULES. 1. That every anuual subscriber be considered a member; and a donation of ten guineas, or upwards, shall constitute a person a member for life.-II. 1 every subscriber shall be entitled to thirds of the amount of his subscription publications; and that the remaininge-third be at the disposal of the conimit-IIL That persons becoming membersɔr life, be entitled, for every donation oen guincas, to the same amount in pucations as subscribers of one guinea pannum. -IV. That the committee for imaging the affairs of this socie y, consrof subscribers of half a guinea and upwds, and members for life.-V. That the mm:t tee meet at six o'clock in the eving, on the second Monday in every moth, at Mr. Baller's, in Wine-street: at the meetings in March, June, Stember, and December, be open to the suscribers in general; and that an annual meting be held on the second Monday in ane; on which day a sermon shall be priched, a collection be made, the accounts audited, and a treasurer, secretary, and omittee chosen for the year ensuing. I. That the committee consist of twenty one persons, including the treasurer andsecretary, five of whom shall be competent to act. Committee for the year 1803. Mr. William Dighton, Rev. J. Ryland, D. D. Mr. J. I. Baker, Rev. T. Roberts, Rev. John Sharp, Mr. T. Bonville, Rev. John Hey, Rev. Sam. Lowel, Mr. Meshach Brittan, Mr. Henry Browne, Rev. T. Grinfield, M. Thomas Stock, Mr. Wm. Ariel, Mr. T. Roberts, Rev. J. Swertner, Mr. Arthur To. zer, Mr. H. O. Wills, Mr. Joseph Dear, and Rev. Heary Page, Andrew Pope, Esq. Treasurer. T. V. Meech, Secretary. Subscriptions are received by the Treasurer, and by the several Members of the Committee. ASSOCIATIONS. The Associate Meeting of Ministers of the Independent denomination of YORKSHIRE, DERBYSHIRE, and NOTTINGHAMSHIRE, was held at Melbourne, Derbyshire, April 5 and 6, 1803. Mr. Dawson, of Sheffield, preached on Tuesday evening, from Heb. xii. 6; Mr. Boden, of Sheffield, on Wednesday morning, from Heb.x.35; and Mr. Gawthorne, of Derby, on the same evening, from Phil. ii. 1-5; Mess. Ellis, of Barnsley; Gawthorne, of Belpar; and Shaw, of Ilkeston, engaged in prayer. The public services were well attended, and great harmony prevailed among the ministers. The next Meeting will be held in Queen - street chapel, Sheffield, June 28 and 30, as the Annual Examination at the Mesborough academy will take place on the latter day. The Ninth General Meeting of the LINCOLNSHIRE and NOT. TIMAM Association, was held, Apr, at Alford. The preceding eveg Mr. Woodward, of Pinchbeckdelivered a discourse on John vi.4. Wednesday morning the ministe met as usual for prayer, and the rangement of business. In the rrning-service, Mr. Clark, of Brig prayed, and read a suitable porth of the sacred Scriptures, Mr.melle, of Great Grimsby, delived a discourse on Rom. v. 10; nd Mr. Trolley concluded with rayer. The commemoration of thesufferings and death of the blesse Redeemer was then celebrated by the associate ministers, their fends, and the church. the eening service, Mr. Woodward rayed; Mr. Griffith, of Lincoln, reached from Eph. i. 7. In ORDINATIONS. THE Rev. R. Ireer, late of London, having receved an unanimous call from the church and congregation at Uxbridge Middlesex, was, on Tuesday April 12, set apart for a public avowal of the same. Mr. Hudson, of West Bromwich, began the services by reading and prayer; Mr. Torling, of Arlington, gave the introductory discourse; the intercessory prayer was offered byMr. John Brown, of London; Dr. Duncan, of London, delivered a charge to the minister, from Ezek. iii. 17. After which a sermon was preached to the people by Mr. Matthews, of Whetstone, from Deut. i. 38. who concluded the services of the morning by prayer. In the evening, a double lecture was preached by Mr. J. Brown, from 2 Tim. ii. 10; and by Mr. T. Jackson, of Stockwell, from Rom. xv. 33. The ser vices of the day were well attended. MARCH 8. The Relief Presbytery of Dumfries ordained the Rev. W. Boag to minister in holy things, to the Relief-congregation at Castle Douglas. Mr. D. Laing, of Wamphray, began the service by praise, prayer, and reading of the Scriptures; Mr. W. Auld, of Penpont, preached an excellent sermon, from Mal. ii, 7," For the priests lips should keep knowledge," &c.; Mr W. Strang, of Newton - Douglas, proposed the usual questions to Mr. Boag, and offered up the ordination-prayer; Mr. E. Dobbie, of Kirkbean, gave the charge to the minister, from 1 Tim. iv. 16; and Mr. J. Lawson, of Dumfries, preached from Deut.i. 38. ON Wednesday, March 9, the Rev. W. Scamp was ordained to the pastoral office over the church of Christ at Havant, in Hampshire. Mr. Styles, of Cowes, began the service with prayer and reading the sacred Scriptures; Mr. Cox, of Fareham, delivered the introduc tory discourse, and asked the questions; Mr. Griffin, of Portsea, offered up the ordination - prayer ; which was accompanied with the laying on of the hands of the ministers who assisted in the work, as a testimony of their approbation of their younger brother, and expres sive of their fervent wishes for his prosperity and success. Mr. Bogue, of Gosport, his tutor, delivered the charge, from 2 Tim. iv. 5, « Do the work of an Evangelist." general and intercessory prayer was then presented by Mr. R. Adams; of Winchester; Mr. J. Adams, of Salisbury, preached to the people The |