The Horsley Association 1749 (Western Association)

These Breviates passed on by Joseph Belcher are found in the Baptist Memorial and Monthly Chronicles of 1843.

BREVIATES

The first day time being spent in prayer by our brethren Robert Day, William Plummer, Hugh Evans and Isaac Mann. A sermon was preached by our brother Edmund Jones from 2 Cor 2:1. The words are these For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved and also in them that perish. After sermon was ended the letters were read and the several Messengers being asked what they had to offer that night be inserted in the General letter and nothing new being stated but what had been usually inserted our brother Benjamin Beddome was unanimously desired to draw it up and after time spent in prayer by our brother Ebenezer Ludlow, the first day was concluded.

On the second day time being spent in prayer by our brethren John Evans, Thomas Davis, James Hanks and Edward Western the case of Plymouth was considered and referred to our brother Edmund Jones who intends paying them a visit shortly. The General letter was then read approved and signed and Thursday 8th of June next recommended to be kept as a day of fasting and prayer or as near it as may be and one or two more such days to be kept in the year. Afterwards time was spent in prayer by our brethren Benjamin Beddome and Philip Jones and a sermon was preached by our brother Robert Day from Rom vii:9. The words are these For I was alive without the law once but when the commandment came sin revived and I died. Next association to be held at Wellington on Tuesday in the Whitsun week the sermon to be preached by our rother Hugh Evans and in case of failure by our brother John Hayden.

A note on Thomas Coles and the Oxfordshire Association

On page 348 of Useful Learning, Anthony R Cross has a footnote on Thomas Coles, saying he came from Beddome's ( Bourton-on-the-Water) and entered the Bristol College in 1795, following his baptism at Shortwood and acceptance into membership in August that year. In October 1797 he went to Marischal College, Aberdeen, as a Dr Ward Scholar, where he completed his MA in April 1800. He became assistant to Abraham Booth at Prescott Street, London, and then was ordained at Bourton on 17 November 1801 as Beddome's successor (he says to see Ryland and James Hinton, The Duties and Supports of a Gospel Minister; and The Duties incumbent on a Christian Church.) In 1802 he was a prime mover in the establishment of 'An Association of Baptist Congregational Churches for Oxfordshire and the Counties adjacent," serving as its secretary from its founding to his death in 1840.

(Cross cites B S Hall, 'Memoir of the Late Rev. Thomas Coles;" Brooks, Pictures of the Past, 42, 69-70, 72-80, 82-101, 103-107, 108 and 111; Swaine, Faithful Men, 190-92; Tongue, Dr. John Warts Trust, 16-17 and 35; Ivimey, Histoty, IV, 469; and Whelan, Baptist Autographs, 369, as authorities).

In 1813, Coles preached to the Bristol Education Society, Advice to Students and Ministers, which indicates, among other things, the importance to him of the place of studying the scriptures for students and ministers.

So although Bourton was in the Midland Association all through Beddome's time, no doubt because the geographical focus of that grouping had changed, after his death they joined this new Oxfordshire focussed group, something perhaps anticipated by the double lecture in Beddome's own lifetime.

The Tewkesbury Association 1790

BREVIATES

The ministers and messengers of the churches met on Tuesday evening. - Brother [Joshua] Thomas was chosen moderator. Brother Henry Dawson prayed. The letters were read: the intelligence was agreeable in general; and Brother [John] Tist [Henley-in-Arden] concluded by prayer. Wednesday morning, met at half part six o'clock. - The circular letter, drawn up by Brother [Thomas] Hiller, [Tewkesbury] was read and approved. About ten o'clock the public service. began.. Brother Williams prayed. Brother [Peter] Reece [Warwick] preached from Rom. xiv. 17. For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Brother [William or James} Dore prayed, Brother [William] Wilkins [Bourton] preached from 1 Thess. v. 18 In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Brother [Lawrence?] Butterworth concluded with prayer. At six o'clock in the evening, Brother [Thomas] Dunscombe [1748-1811]  prayed. Brother [Samuel] Pearce preached from Micah vii. 9. I will bear the indignation of the Lord, because I have sinned against him. Brother [James] Aston [Pershore] concluded by prayer.

Resolved, That no church be admitted into, or continued in this connexion, but such who profess to believe the doctrines mentioned in our circular letter. - Resolved, That the monthly meeting, of prayer for the revival of religion, be continued.

In the associated churches, there were

Baptized - - - - - 90

Received by letter - - 5

Baptized at Henley (a branch of Aulcester) 8

                                                                 —103

Dead - - - - - - - 29

Excluded - - - - 15

Dismissed - - - - -5

                        — 49 

Increase 54'

The next Association to be held at Ross on Tuesday and Wednesday in the Whitsun-week. Brother [Joshua] Thomas, of Leominster, and Brother [Thomas] Hiller, [Tewkesbury] to preach. In case of failure, Brother [William] Dore, of Cirencester. Put up at the George.

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.

The Cirencester Association 1779

BREVIATES 

TUESDAY evening, according to appointment, the Ministers and Messengers met together, and after some time spent in prayer, Brother [William] Dore [1764-1825] was chosen Moderator; the letters from the several churches .were read, and their contents considered. The melancholy state of public affairs was taken notice of in several letters, and days of fasting and prayer recommended, as highly necessary at the present alarming crisis. This opportunity was closed by prayer.

The next morning, at six o'clock, we met again, and after spending some time in prayer, the Moderator produced the Circular Letter, which was then read, and the meeting closed by prayer

At half after ten, the public service was introduced by singing and prayer Brother [William] WILKINS prayed; Brother L[awrence] BUTTERWORTH preached from 2 Cor 3:18 "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord" Brother B[enjamin] FRANCIS prayed; Brother [John] POYNTON preached from Rev 1:5, 6 "And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever." Brother [Thomas] HILLER concluded by prayer. Meeting again in the evening, half after six, Brother [Thomas] SKINNER prayed; Brother [John] STEPHENS [d 1816] preached from Luke 13:29 "And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God." and closed the solemnities of the Association with prayer.

The Present STATE of the CHURCHES. 

    Added this Year.

Baptized 38

Received by Letter 5

43

 

Lost by

Death 27

Exclusion 2

Dismission 1

30

Total Increase 13

 

As our friends at Cirencesler have been at a very considerable expence in enlarging their place of worship, and to defray which are obliged to solicit the assistance of their charitable and well disposed friends, we unanimously recommend their case as highly worthy of encouragement. The next Association to be at Worcester, Tuesday and Wednesday in the Whitsun-Week. Brother BEDDOME and Brother DORE to preach; in case of failure, Brother [Joshua?] THOMAS. Put up at the UNICORN.

The Warwick Association 1778

B R E V I A T E S.

Most of the Messengers arrived in safety on Tuesday evening, and after some time spent in prayer, Brother [James] Turner was chosen MODERATOR, the Letters from the several Churches were read, minutes taken, and their contents considered. In general, the Churches are in peace, and we hope have the truth amongst them, and love it. Several Letters make mention of the state of public affairs, and recommended fasting and prayer, as highly necessary at the present awful crisis, that God may be pleased in mercy to remember us, reform and bless us. This opportunity was closed by prayer.

We met again next morning for prayer. One of the Brethren produced the Circular Letter, which was read and approved, At ten o'clock the public service was introduced by singing and prayer by Brother [Thomas] Hiller; Brother Beddome preached from 1 Kings xviii. 17. Art thou he that troubleth Israel? and Brother [Robert] Hall [1728-1791 Arnesby] concluded the morning service.-At two o'clock the service was introduced as before; Brother (John) SUTCLIFF [1752-1815] prayed; Brother [John] Ash preached from 2 Cor. iv. 3. And if our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are losi; and Brother (Caleb) EVANS concluded by prayer. - We met again in the evening, six o'clock;- Brother LAWRENCE BUTTERWORTH prayed, Brother [James] Dore preached from Luke viii. 18. Take heed therefore how you hear; and closed the solemnities of the Association by prayer.

The present STATE of the CHURCHES.
Added this year Baptised 55

                           Death            21
Lost by               Dismission    1
                           Exclusion      6

                                                  28

Total Increase                             27


Agreed; to keep a Day of Fasting and Prayer between the Hay and Corn Harvests, on such days as may be most convenient to the Churches.
The Association next year to be at Cirencesier; our Brethren [John] Poynting and L. BUTTERWORTH to preach; in case of failure, Brother Ash.
Put up at the RAM.

The Birmingham Association 1777

BREVIATES

The Messengers, thro' the goodness of God, arrived in safety. At 6 o'clock we met together as usual. Brother [John] SANDYS [d 1803 Shrewsbury] was requested to introduce the solemnity by prayer. Brother L. BUTTERWORTH was chosen MODERATOR, the Letters from the several Churches were read, and their contents considered. Many of them contained expressions of deep concern on account of the War with America; as also very fervent wishes that it may please God to restore peace and lasting friendship to them and to us. And that our liberties and our loyally may remain, according to the will of God! - One Letter strenuously recommended the necessity of inculcating the solemn duties of religion; and that of Baptism in particular, so much opposed. It was thought all lovers of Jesus should be stirred up to follow him in all his ordinances. This opportunity was closed by Brother [John] Cooper [Bratton, Wilts]

Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock we met again for prayer. Our Brethren [Joshua or Daniel] THOMAS, T. SKINNER, LOAD, SKINNER and [John] MASON [1706-1763 Cheshunt] were engaged, Brother [James] TURNER produced the Circulating Letter, which was read and approved.

The public meeting began at 10 o'clock. Brother [William] CLARKE [1732-1795] from London prayed, Brother [James] DORE preached from 1 Cor. 9. 9. For I determined not to know any thing among you save Jesus Christ and him crucified; Brother BEDDOME concluded the morning service. The afternoon service was introduced by Brother [John] Ash, Brother [Thomas] HILLER preached from Acts 16, 17. These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation; and the MODERATOR concluded by prayer. We met again in the evening. Brother [William] Wills [Eversholt, Beds] began in prayer, Brother [Samuel] MEDLEY [1738-1799 Liverpool] preached from Psalm 68, 20. He that is our God, is the God of salvation; and unto God the Lord. belong the issues from death; and closed the whole by prayer..

The present day of the Churches: 

Added this year 

Baptized 35

Received by Letter 5

Total                40

Lost by

Death 21

Dismission 3

Total 24

Total Increase 16. 

N. B. The Church at Cirencester joined this Association and sent a Letter and Messenger.

The next Association to be at WARWICK, to meet on Tuesday in the Whitsun-week. Our Brethren BEDDOME and Ash to preach; in case of failure Brother J(ohn or James). BUTTERWORTH. Put up at the Three Tuns.

The Dudley Association 1775

On Tuesday evening the Messengers arrived in safety, and chosen Moderator, and the Letters from the several Churches were read; the contents of which were considered. In several of them some notice was taken of the situation of things between America and the Mother Country, particularly to urge the necessity of a Day of Fasting, Humiliation, and Prayer, that it may please God to have mercy on us, to pardon our fins, and put a speedy ftop to our unhappy disputes: That our privileges may be continued to us, and we enabled to value and improve them more to the glory of God, and our own good.

We met again on Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock for prayer. Brother [James] TURNER produced the Circular Letter, which was read and approved. At 10 o'clock the Public Meeting was introduced by singing, Brother [Thomas] HILIER praying, Brother [William] Wills [Eversholt, Beds] preached from Col. iv, 2. and brother [Thomas] SKINNER concluded the morning service. At 2 o'clock the Public Meeting was introduced as before. Brother Smith prayed, Brother [John] Ash preached from Mark xvi. 15. and Brother [Daniel or Joshua] Thomas concluded by prayer. We had another service in the evening introduced by singing; Brother LOAD prayed, Brother Law. BUTTERWORTH preached from Acts xvii. 32. and concluded the service of the day by prayer. Met again next morning for prayer and tome private business, and the Moderator concluded the Association by prayer.

The present State of the Churches

Added this year

Baptized 90

Received by Letter 15

                                105

Lost by

Death 15

Dismission 12

Exclusion 2

                                29

Total increase            76

AGREED to hold a day of fasting and prayer to implore the interposition of Divine Providence to put a stop to the unhappy disputes between the Mother Country and the Colonies, that the effusion of human blood may be prevented, and peace established on a just and lasting foundation.

The next Association to be at Tewkesbury, to meet on Monday evening in the Whitsun week. Our Brethren BEDDOME and [Thomas] SKINNER to preach; in case of failure, Brother [Joshua or possibly Daniel] THOMAS,

Put up at the Fleece.

The Pershore Association 1773

BREVIATES

On Tuesday Evening the Messengers of the Churches, through the Kindness of Providence arrived in safety, and after a little Time improved in Prayer, Brother [Joshua] THOMAS was Chosen Moderator, and the Letters were read, and their Contents considered: Different causes of Joy and Sorrow, we hope, made correspondent Impressions on our Hearts. We thank the Fountain of all Goodness, the Churches are in Peace, are all provided with Ministers and Plenty of the Means. Complaints we have heard, and Complaints we shall continue to hear while in the Body. The most Pious Person: and purest Church in the Present State, will have daily cause to Cry, “My Leanness! my Leanness!”. This Opportunity was concluded by Prayer. 

We met again the next, Morning at Six o'Clock to spread your Wants and ours before the Lord: Brother [John] Ash was desired to produce the Circular Letter, which he did, and it was read and approved. At half past Ten the Public Service was introduced by our Brother [William] Wills [Eversholt, Beds] with Singing and Prayer: Brother [Thomas] SKINNER proceeded in Prayer; Brother BEDDOME Preached from James 1. 26. This Man's Religion is vain: Brother JAMES BUTTERWORTHI concluded the Morning Service.

At half past Two o'Clock Brother L. BUTTERWORTH opened the Public Meeting with Singing and Prayer; Brother [James] TURNER succeeded him; Brother [Thomas] HILLER Preached from 2 Cor. 2. 16. To the one we are the Savour of Death unto Death; and to the other, the Savour of Life unto Life: And who is sufficient for these Things? Brother [John] POYNTING concluded the Service by Prayer. The Messengers made a short Stay, and Brother Ash closed the whole Business of the Association by Prayer.

At half past Six in the Evening Brother [Joshua] THOMAS Preached a Sermon from Heb. 4.7. To Day if ye will hear his Voice:

The Present State of the Associated Churches,

The ADDITIONS this Year

Baptized 43 Received by Letter 7

                                                    50

DIMINUTION

Dead 25

Excluded 5

Dismissed 8

                38

Total INCREASE 12

The next Association to be at Bengworth, to meet on Tuesday Evening in the Whitsun Week: Put up at the UNICORN. Our Brethren [John] POYNTING and [Thomas?] [William] Wills to Preach; in Case of Failure Brother JAMES BUTTERWORTH.

AGREED, That the Messengers present their Sincerest Thanks to the Author of the "Address to the Serious and Candid Professors of Christianity,” &c. for his Noble and able Defence of some of the Fundamental Doctrines of Religion; and sincerely. With his Labours may be crowned with Success.

[Ambrose Serle 1742-1812]

AGREED, To hold a Day of Fasting and Prayer among all the Churches of this Association, the last whole Week in this Month, and that every Church observe that Day of the Week which is most Convenient: The Situation of the Poor, and of Trade in the Nation, loudly call for it.

The Leominster Association 1772

 BREVIATES

The Meeting house being to be opened here the day preceding the Association, and having previous notice thereof, most of us met safely and comfortably on Monday evening.

Tuesday morning, at the opening of the new place of worship, the public service was begun by our brother [John] Ash; and then a Sermon preached on the occasion by our brother C.[aleb] Evans from Hag. ii. 7. I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts. There was a publick meeting also in the afternoon, introduced by our brother [James] Turner, and a Sermon preached by our brother [Benjamin] Francis, from 1 Kings viii. 27. But will God indeed dwell on the earth?

In the evening of the same day, the Messengers of the Churches met, and after some time spent in prayer, our brother [John] Ash was chosen Moderator The Letters were read, wherein we found that the Churches are in peace, and have the means of grace plenty among them, and some signs of the divine blessing. Herein we would acknowledge the goodness of God. That meeting was closed by prayer.

We met Wednesday morning at six When time was improved in prayer, the circular Letter drawn up by brother [Joshua] Thomas, was approv'd and sign'd. Other particulars proposed were seriously considered, and all the private Business of the Association concluded by prayer. At 10 the public meeting was opened by our brother [William] Wills [Eversholt, Beds], a Sermon was preached by our brother [Thomas] Skinner from Acts xx. 21. Testifying both to the Jews and also to the Greeks repentance towards God and faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ: and the morning exercise ended by our brother [Benjamin] Francis. The afternoon service was begun by our brother [Thomas] Hiller, a Sermon preached by our brother [James] Turner from Acts xv 11. But we believe, that thro' the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved even as they; - and the solemnity concluded by our brother C. Evans. There was a Sermon in the evening by our brother Hiller, from Rom. viii. 14. For as many as are led by the spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

The Church at Sutton sent us a friendly and respectful Letter, bidding us farewel, another Association being lately set up in the neighbourhood, to which it is more convenient for them to join, They conclude their Letter thus “We thank you for all the benefit we have received, by your prayers and letters, of which the first that we know of was dated, Worcester, June 3rd. and 4th 1707“ now 65 years ago. We pray the Lord to be with you and bless you, and make you eminent blessings. May the interest of CHRIST flourish under your hands. Desiring a continued interest in your prayers and affections, we subscribe ourselves, your loving brethren in Christ."

The next Association to be at Pershore. To meet on Tuesday evening in the Whitsun-week. Our brethren Beddome and Hiller to preach. In case of failure of either, our brother [William] Wills

Put up at the Angel.

The state of the associated Churches. 

The Addition this year

Baptized 38

Received by Letters 6

                                44

Diminution

Dead 27

Dismissed 1

                                28

Increase 26

Inns used at Associations

When the annual association met at Hook Norton or Bourton on the Water it would seem that the churches made their own efforts to accommodate visitors. Where the association took place in a larger pace an inn would be recommended the year before. Those recommended in the second half of the eighteenth century are as follows.

The Red Lion (1736) and The Talbot (1747, 1757, 1769) Upton upon Severn

The Marlborough Head and The Three Tuns, Warwick (1742, 1750, 1778)

The Crown & Sceptre near the Bridge End, Bridgnorth (1745, 1756)

The King's Head (1749) and The Angel (1773) Pershore

The Castle (1764) The Anchor, Spinal Street (1752) and The Union Tavern, Cherry Street, Birmingham 

The Hop-Pole, Foregate Street (1754) and The Unicorn, Broad Street (1767, 1780) Worcester

The Crown between High Street and Church Street, Bromsgrovc (1755, 1768, 1783)

The Boar, Alcester (1758)

Unicorn (1760) and The Three Horse-Shoes, Leominster (1772)

The Unicorn, Bengeworth (1774)

The Ram, Cirencester (1779)

The Fleece, Tewkesbury (1776, 1790)

The George, Ross on Wye (1791)

The Red Lion, Wolverhampton

The Alcester Association 1771

BREVIATES

On Tuesday Evening, the Messengers being met, some little time as usual was improved in Prayer; our Brother B. Beddome chosen Moderator, the Letters read; the State of the associated Churches represented in them considered; and the Meeting concluded in Prayer.

The Morning Meeting on Wednesday was improved in Prayer, and settling the State of the Churches. At 10 o'Clock Brother Beddome opened the public Service: Brother [Thomas] Hillier followed in Prayer: Brother [Daniel or Joshua] Thomas preached from Eph. iv. 5 One Faith. And Brother [James] Turner concluded in Prayer.

Át 2 o'Clock Brother [John] Ash opened the public Meeting with Singing and Prayer: Brother [John] Poynting preached from Acts xvi. 17. These Men are the Servants of the most High God, who few unto me the Way of Salvation. And Brother [John] MacGowan concluded in Prayer,

The same Evening, the Circular Letter was read, approved by the Assembly, and signed by the Moderator: And Brother John Butterworth [1727-1803 Coventry] concluded the whole in Prayer.

Baptised in several churches 28

Dead 15

Excluded 1

Total Increase 16

The next Association to be at Leominster: Brother [James] Turner and Brother [Thomas] Skinner to preach; in Case of Failure; Brown then [Thomas] Hillier. Put up at the Three Horse-Shoes.

The Bromsgrove Association 1768

BREVIATES

It is the desire of the Church of Bewdley, that the seven Churches in Association would consider their present destitute case and afford them what assistance they can, which we think their duty.

On Tuesday evening the Messengers being met, the letters from the Churches were read, and the opportunity was both begun and concluded with prayer. Wednesday morning was spent in prayer, reading letters, and settling the service of the day. At ten o'clock Brother Beddome opened the meeting by prayer; Brother [Benjamin] Whitmore preached from Eph. ii. 8. By grace are ye saved; and Brother Lawrence Butterworth concluded the morning service. In the afternoon Brother [James] Turner introduced the meeting by singing and prayer; Brother [John] Pointing preached from Psalm cxxxii, 16. I will also clothe her priests with falvation, and her faints shall fhout aloud for joy. Brother [John] Ash concluded the solemnity with prayer.

It is the unanimous request of the ministers that Brother [John] Pointing's sermon be published, and we doubt not but you will give it the encouragement it merits. In the evening the Circular Letter was read and approv'd, and Brother [John] Butterworth of Coventry concluded with Prayer.

In the last Year were

Added to all churches 16

Dead 16

Dismiss'd 1

Excluded 1

The next Association to be at Upton-upon-Severn, to meet on Tuesday Evening in the Whitsun Week. Brother [James] Turner and Brother [Thomas] Skinner, to preach; and in case of failure, Brother 

Lawrence Butterworth. Put up at the Talbot.

The Worcester Association 1767

BREVIATES.

The Messengers being met Tuesday Evening, some time was spent in Prayer; the Letters from the Churches being read, and their Contents confidered, Brother [John] Poynting was desired to draw up the Circular Letter.

The public Meeting on Wednesday was opened with Prayer by Brother [Thomas] Skinner, and Brother Butterworlh; then Brother Beddome preached from Luke xxiv, 29. then Brother [Joshua or Daniel] Thomas [Leominster or Henley-in-Arden] pray'd, and Brother [John] Asli preach'd from Luke x. 11. Brother [Philip] Jones concluded in Prayer.

This Year added by Baptism 52

Removed by, Death 23

Encrease 29

Next Association to be at Bromsgrove; put up at the Crown. To meet Tuesday Evening in the Whitsun-Week. Brother [John] Hayden; and Brother [John] Poynting to preach; in Case of Failure of either, Brother [Benjamin] Whitmore.

N.B. Our Friends at Bromsgrove desire the Service on Wednesday may be divided into two Parts (viz.) from 10 to 12 o'Clock in the Morning, and from 2 till 4 in the Afternoon

The Hooknorton Association 1766

MINUTES of the ASSOCIATION,

On Monday Evening, the Messengers being met, some Time was improved in Prayer; the Letters from the Churches read; their Contents particularly considered; Minutes taken for the Circular Letter; and Brother [Benjamin] Whitmore desired to draw it up. [Hooknorton 1728-1804]

The public Meeting, on Tuesday, was opened by Brother [John] MacGowan; [Scotsman, 1726-1780 moved in this year from Bridgnorth to Devonshire Square, London]. Brother [Thomas] Skinner [d 1782 Alcester] preached from Phil. i. 6. Brother Beddome prayed; Brother James Butterworth [d 1794?? Bromsgrove] preached from Rom. XV. 10. and Brother [Philip] jones [d 1771 Upton] concluded in Prayer.

Added this Year to the several Churches 29.

Loft by Death 3

Excluded 20.

The next Association to be at Worcester, to meet on Tuesday Evening in the Whitsun-Week; Messrs. Beddome and [John] Ash [c 1724-1779 Pershore] to preach; in Case of Failure, Brother ;Benjamin] Whitmore.

Put up at the Unicorn in Broad-Street.

The Bourton on the Water Association 1765

BREVIATES. 

It was desired by one of the Churches that Professors should be caution'd against such an intermeddling with the Affairs of State as might lead them to speak evil of Dignities and censure those Things which they do not and perhaps cannot understand.

It was also requested by another Church that a Word might be dropp'd against unsettled Notions in Religion, that We might not be carried about with divers and strange Doctrines, but seek after that good Thing, an Heart establish'd by Grace.

It was also moved by one of the Brethren, that Members of Churches might be exhorted to gain some skill in the Art of Singing, in order to join in that delightful part of publick Worship, not leaving it to be chiefly or alone perform'd by the graceless Part of the Affembly.

In all which Requests We heartily concur, and therefore would recommend the Things before mention’d to your serious Consideration.

On Tuesday Evening the Messengers being met, the Letters from the Churches were read, and the Opportunity was both begun and concluded with Prayer.

Wednesday Morning Directions were given for the drawing up of the Circular Letter, and Brother Beddome being desir’d to perform that Service, some Time was spent in Prayer.

The same Day the publick Meeting was opened by Brother [Benjamin] Francis, Brother [John] Ash proceeded in Prayer, Brother [John] MGowan preach'd from Psalm xlv. and 13. Verse, The King's Daughter is all glorious within; her Cloathing is of wrought Gold. Brother Caleb Evans then pray'd, Brother [James] Turner preach'd from Romans iv. and 20. Verse He stagger'd not at the Promise of God through Unbelief; but was strong in Faith, giving Glory to God. And Brother [Philip] Jones concluded in Prayers.

In the Evening We had a Sermon upon Acts xi. 22, 23 and 24 Verses, from Brotber [Benjamin] Wallen of London.

The next Morning the Circular Letter was. read and approv'd, and Brother Beddome clos'd the Meeting in Prayer.

The next Association to be at Hooknorton, to meet on Monday Evening in the Whitsun Week, Brother [Thomas] Skinner and Brother James Butterworth to preach in Case of Failure of either Brother [Isaac] Woodman. Call at Mr. [Benjamin] Whitmore's.

The Birmingham Association 1764

MINUTES of the ASSOCIATION.

On Monday Evening, the Messengers being met, some Time was improved in Prayer, and the Letters from the several Churches read. A private Meeting for Prayer and Conference, relative to the Affairs of the Churches, was held on Tuesday Morning. The publick Meeting was opened at 10 o'Clock by Brother John Butterworth; [1727-1803, Coventry] Brother James Butterworth [d 1794?? Bromsgrove] proceeded in Prayer; Brother Beddome preached from 2 Cor. i. 14.; Brother [John] Knight [Warwick, from Moreton in Devon then Cork] then prayed; Brother [John] Ash [c 1724-1779 Pershore] preached from Acts viii. 5, 6, 7, 8; and Brother [Philip] Jones [d 1771 Upton] concluded in Prayer, and dismissed the Assembly.

We met together the same Evening for Prayer, and to review the State of the Churches, and appointed Brother [James] Turner to draw up the Circular Letter. On Wednesday Morning the Circular Letter was read, and approved, and the Moderator [John Poynting 1719-1791, Worcester] closed the Solemnity with Prayer.

The next Association to be at Bourton on the Water; to meet on Tuesday Evening in the Whitsun Week. Brother [James] Turner [1726-1780, Birmingham] and Brother [John] M'Gowan [1726-1780, Bridgnorth] to preach, and in Case of Failure, Brothers [Isaac] Woodman [d 1777, Sutton in the Elms] or [Daniel or Joshua] Thomas. [Henley-in-Arden or Leominster]

N. B. As it hath pleased God to remove out of this World of Sin and Sorrow our beloved Brother, John Overbury, and as the Church late under his Care, is by this affecting Providence, left destitute; we earnestly entreat the Sister Associate Churches, to give them all the Assistance in their Power; not only by their Counsels and Prayers, but by sending them Supplies.

The Tewkesbury Association 1763

MINUTES of the ASSOCIATION

On Monday Evening the Messengers being met, some Time was spent in Prayer; the Letters from the Churches read; and when Minutes were taken for the Circular Letter, our Brother [John] Haydon was desired to draw it up.

The public Meeting on Tuesday, was opened by Brother [John] Reynolds; Brother [James] Turner proceeded in Prayer; Brother Butterworth preached from Jer. xvii. 9.

Brother [John] Knight [Warwick] then prayed, and Brother [John] Poynting preached from Psalm lxxxix. 15. and Brother [Philip] Jones concluded in Prayer.

The next Morning the Circular Letter was read and approved, and Brother [Nathaniel] Overbury closed the Solemnity with Prayer.

The next Association to be at Birmingham, to meet on Monday Evening, Messrs. Beddome and [John] Ash to preach, and in Case of Failure Mr. [John] Haydon.

Put up at the Castle.

The Bengeworth Association 1761

Minutes of the Association

Tuesday Evening the Messengers being met, some Time was spent in prayer, the Letters from the Churches read, their Contents minutely consider'd, Minutes taken for the circular Letter, and Bro. [John] Ash desir'd to draw it up.

The public meeting on Wednesday was open'd by our Bro. [Benjamin] Francis and Bro. Ash follow'd in Prayer. Bro. [Joshua?] Thomas preach'd from Eph. 3:8, Bro. [James] Turner, preach'd from 2. Cor. 12-14 - and Bro. Beddome concluded in Prayer. The same Evening the circular Letter was read, and Prayer concluded the whole Solemnity,

In all the churches, which constitute our Association, there are 596 Members. 17 have been remov'd by Death the past Year, and 10 have been added by Baptism.

Next Association to be at Warwick, to meet on Tuesday in the Whitsun week at the Marlborough's Head. Messrs. [Nathaniel?] Overbury and [Philip] Jones to preach. In case of failure Brother [John] M'Gowan to supply the Place of either.

Beddome was the Moderator on this occasion.

Pershore Association 1759

(First published summary. Letter by Beddome)

The Elders and Messengers of the several Baptist churches at Aulcester, Bengeworth, Bromsgrove, Bourton on the Water, Bridgenorth, Hooknorton, Leicester and Sutton, Leominster, Pershore, Upton, Warwick, and Worcester, having Letters also from Bewdley and Tewkesbury, met in Association at Pershore, maintaining the great Doctrines of the Divine Personality of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in one most glorious, and immutable God, eternal and personal Election; the original Guilt, and universal Depravity of the human Nature; Justification by the imputed Righteousness of Christ; efficacious Grace in regeneration, and the certain Perseverance of the Saints.

To the Church of Christ of the same Faith, and Order meeting at

Grace, Mercy, and Peace from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Dearly beloved Brethren

WHAT will it profit a Man, if he should gain the whole world, and lose his own Soul? or what will a Man give in exchange for his Soul?* When we consider, that we arc possess'd of immaterial self-consciousness, and immortal Spirits. which must be either eternally happy, or everlastingly miserable; Spirits originally form'd, and professedly renewed after the Image of God, we have reason to be Ashamed that our Actions are so little agreeable to the Dignity of our Nature, or the Height of our Pretensions - Permit us therefore to stir up you, and ourselves to greater Activity in the Service of God; that instructed by his Word, and animated by his Spirit, we may approve those things that are most excellent; be steady in our Adherence to every important Truth, as well as Duty of the Christian religion.

Let not those secret Duties of Piety, which are necessary to maintain Communion with God, and promote the Peace, Comfort, and Spiritual Growth of our Souls, be formally attended, or slightly passed over: let that Eye, that all penetrating Eye, which saw Nathaniel under the Fig tree frequently behold us in our Closest Prayer, Meditation, and that much neglected Duty of Examination; and when we return into our Families, and the World, let others take Knowledge of us that we have been with Jesus.

Let us seek after an Evenness in our Conduct, and endeavour to balance the Inequalities of our Temper by the Dictatees of Prudence: an ungovernable or an ungovern'd Spirit is like a City in Confusion and without Walls, open to every Assault and Exposed to every Invader.

'Tis still a matter of Complaint, that the Catechism, that excellent Form of sound Words is so seldom put into the Hands of our Children, tho' it may be a Preservative from Error, when it is not the Means of conveying Grace; and many of them being well instructed in their Childhood, may not only retain a strong Attachment to a set of good Principles, but likewise, by the Influences of divine Grace, talk their Spiritual Sweetness, and feel their Spiritual Power.

Give us leave also with a Mixture of Tenderness and Authority to remind you of the Necessity of public and private Meetings of Prayer: which are, alas! too little attended; as likewise of the great Importance of Family Worship, a Duty to our Shame, to our Grief be it spoken, less neglected by nominal Christians a hundred Years ago, than it is now by real Saints.

Well might one of our Ministering Brethren complain this Day, in the Words of the Prophet "Jacob is small!'** How small is the Number of the truly Godly? How small the Experience, the Gifts and Graces of God's professing People. Does not this call upon us to lay our Mouths in the Dust, and continually to cry Wilt thou revive us again? Lord, strengthen the Things that remain, and are ready to Die. Let the Salvation of JERUSALEM go forth like a Lamp that burneth, and every Inhabitant partake of her Joy.

Some of the Things we have now mention'd have been, indeed, often repeated, yet to inculcate them afresh to us is not grievous, and we hope to you profitable and safe; God forbid therefore that they should be treated as customary things or disregarded as we fear they have be in Years past.

Finally Brethren, our Hearts desire and Prayer to God for you is that you may be saved, that your Conduct may be uniform, your Conversation Spiritual, your whole Walk as becometh the Gospel of Christ that your Zeal may provoke many, and that being nothing terrified by you this World, and in the World to come Life eve Adversaries, you may poffefs the Peace of God i thus pray

Your Ministers your Bretheren, and your Servants for Jesus Sake

PHILIP JONES Moderator

P. S. We think it proper to inform you, that all the churches, which we represent, are in Peace amongst themselves, enjoy the stated Means of Grace, have had 29 Persons added by Baptism 24 removed by death, and 2 excluded for Irregular behaviour.

The next Association to be at Leominster, to meet on Tuesday evening in the Whitsun Week at the Unicorn in Broad-Street. Messers Beddome and Ash are appointed to preach, and in Case of Failure, Mr James Butterworth to supply the place of either.

Pershore, June 6th, 1759.

* Matt XVI.16 The Words explained this day by our brother Mr John Ryland.

** Amos 7:5 Words explained by our brother Mr John Overbury.