The Evesham Association 1789

This was the last time Beddome preached, presumably the last time he attended.

BREVIATES

The Ministers and Messengers of the Churches met on Tuesday evening, at six o'clock. Brother L. Butterworth was chosen Moderator. He read a short preliminary discourse concerning the nature and design of the Association; after which the letters were read; the intelligence was agreeable in general; and the meeting was introduced and concluded by prayer.

Wednesday morning, met at half after six o'clock. The Moderator produced the Circular Letter, which was read, approved, and signed. This meeting was also begun and concluded by prayer.

About half past ten o'clock the public service began. Our Brother [Thomas] Hiller prayed. Brother Beddome preached from Phil. iv. 3. Whose names are in the book of life. Brother [William] Wilkins prayed, Brother [James] Dore preached from Jude 3. Earnestly contend for the faith: once delivered to the faints. Brother Spencer concluded with prayer. At fix o'clock in the evening had a Lecture. Brother [John] Tist [Henley-in-Arden] prayed. Brother [Peter] Reece [Warwick] preached from Phil. ii. 8. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss, &c. Brother [James] Aston [then of Pershore] concluded with prayer.

At this Association agreed to continue the monthly meeting of prayer, for the revival of religion. In the associated Churches, there were

Baptized 76

Received by Letter 7

                                83 

Dead 17 

Dismissed 7

Excluded 25 

Increase 58

The letter from the church, meeting in Bond-street, Birmingham, came too late to be inserted with the other letters. It mentions their having baptized 22, three of whom living at a distance, were not added :-received one by letter, and another by experience, from the General Baptists:- lost one by death, and excluded five. Increased 15.

Total increase of the associate Churches 73

The next Association to be held at Tewkesbury, on Tuesday and Wednesday in the Whitsun Week. Our Brethren [William] Wilkins and [Peter] Reece to preach. In case of failure, Brother L. Butterworth. Put up at the Fleece.