Decatur Democrat, Volume 51, Number 34, Decatur, Adams County, 24 October 1907 — Page 1

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effort to join two churches Has Had it in Mind for Several Months— Six Steps are Necessary to Success. Editor Democrat: In view o£ the fast that the movement in our city leaning toward a union of two churches, was started by m e. I feel that I should make my position known, and state clearly my disposition toward the matter. If any conscientious person will study the condition of Decatur from an unprejudiced religious point of view that person will become convinced that the situation is a peculiar one. Were I to present facts and figures obtained after a careful study of the situation, many of our good people would say, "something should be done.” I became convinced that something should be done, and felt led by the spirit of God to ask our people to consider the advisability of re-uniting two churches that seventy-five years ago were one and the same. I shall now quote from a church history compiled by A. H. Newman, D.D., LL.D., formerly professor of church history, McMaster University, Toronto: "Baptists and Disciples are today far nearer to harmony than were the Baptists of 1830, and Alexander Campbell. The two denominations have existed side by side for the last sixty years, neutrally influencing each other. The Disciples as above remarked have abandoned much that was most objectionable in the method and substance of the teaching of the founder of the denomination, and the Baptist teaching and practice of the present is far less obnoxious to criticism than it was at the time of the schism. A desire for union has often been expressed by representatives of both denominations and it is earnestly to be desired that the time may soon come when there shall be such harmony of doctrine and practice as would furnish a true basis for organic union." Again: "It is probate moreover, that if the Baptists of the southwest had been thoroughly evangelical the secession under Alexander Campbell would never have occurred.” Speaking of Alexander Campbell, William Burden, 8.A., says: “From the time of his union with the Baptist in 1812, and especially his speech before the Redstone Association, it was evident that while he was in his views a most decided Baptist, yet he was not on sbme ponts. in full sympathy. These points he pressed. Perhaps his growing popularity and his remarkable abilities made him an object of jealousy with some, and thus caused his points of dissent to be magnified beyond their true value.” Again “Recent movements in the western states, where they are numerous, look toward their future identification with the great Baptist body. Whether such a consummation be reached or not, it is certain from the account we have given of them, there are points of union, while the ground of disagreement and separation is mainly on the effect of Baptism. Baptists denying, baptismal regeneration, and regarding all statements in definition of its effects implying baptismal regeneration as dangerous."

Using the above as a guide, I felt that it would be well to ask the members of each church to consider the advisability of uniting the churehes in Decatur. The proposition met with such hearty approval that I set about devising ways and means that would bring the matter before our people. Knowing well that a train, running without a schedule, and train dispatcher, would meet with ultimate disaster. I devised the following method of procedure, and expect to carry on operations according to the same, if the passengers see fit to keep their seats in the coach. History bears me out when I say that all great ends have been reached by degrees. It took the children of Israel 4000 years to get ready for the Messiah. 1517 year* passed before the world was prepared to receive the great Reformation. After a lap of 50 years the Standard OU Co. has reached a position wherein It becomes a power, ana what was true tn the eases above mentioned must bo true of all great movements. My plan Is progrseelve tn Ito nature, and I shall ■ew, proceed to outline the same. First atop—Ascertain ths disposition of each member of our respective ehurchec toward a union, and be governed bv the iaiertty. Thio has boon

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done, and I am glad to say that the majorl y favored a union. On all sides I hear the cry “Well, we have been thinking about that for a long time, that has oeen our plea.” Second Step.—Ascertain the disputation of the pastors of our respective churches toward the movement. Rev. Vichart, pastor of the First Baptist church, of Fort Wayne, was-consult-ed. and spoke in favor of a union. Ho also ci.ed me to instances where the churches have united, and accepted an invitation tendered by me, to visit Decatur and advise to the best interests of both churches. Rev. Shamhart, pastor of Christian church, of Fort Wayne, was consulted, and spoke in favor of a union. He was with us Sunday afternoon, and the good people of both churches will bear me out when I say that his message was “Be ye one.” Rev. Ray O. Miller. A.M., 8.D., pastor of Christian church of Fort Wayne, was consulted and he suggested that a union meeting alternately in each church for a period of two months, at the end of said period of time, hold a meeting and settle the one all important question “which church shall go to the o her?” Third Step—Call a meeting of both congregations and earnestly and prayerfully consider the advisability of holding union services. Sunday. Oct. 6, 1907, a meeting was held in the Christian church. Nothing was said about which church shall go to the other. We simply considered the advisability of holding a union meeting. After spending an hour in considering the question, and after each member had been invited to speak before the gathering, the question was put before the body and voted upon. I am pleased to say that the unanimous will of the people was in the affirmative. It is the wish of these two bodies that a union meeting be conducted for a period of two months or until they see fit to close the meeting and settle the question of which church shall go to the other. Fourth Step—Let us secure printed accounts, detailing the methods and means, put to use by other churches, that have passed through similar experiences, and be guided by the example set by our predecessors. During the time in which we are holding our union meeting, let us examine the doctrines of our respective churches, compare the same and reach an agreement or disagreement as the se may be. Fifth Step—After having examined the points of long contention, and when we feel that we are ready for a decision, let us call a meeting and decide upon the question “which church shall go to the other.” Now’ if each nterested party will kindly retain this schedule, and abide by it, I am sure that we will reach a decision. which shall be to the glory of God. Last Step—Let us conduct ourselves in such a manner that some day we shall be permitted to meet in that glorious city, wherein we shall not find many churches, but one church. Founded, and bullded upon the love of God. shaded by the white night of the holy angles. May we meet there, and join hands in Christian love, and mingle our voices together in the sweet strains of “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” There we shall sit beneath the fountain of living waters, and as the cool days of sweet fellowship with Jesus fall upon our heated brows, we may listen to the song of God’s hourly angels. “On the other side of Jordan midst the green fields of Eden There is rest for the weary there is rest for you.” At last we shall find that for which we have spent our lives in search — “rest unto our souls.” May I add that with reference to consulting other men on the subject of Interest the following have been invited to express their opinions: The Baptist “Observer,” a Baptist state paper, Greensburg, Indiana. Rev. C. F. Dame, Warren, Ind. Rev. J. A. Knowlton, Dunkirk, Ind. Rev. Chas. Watkins, Muncie, Ind. Rev. Holmes, Liberty Center, Ind. Dr. C. M. Carter, Muncie. Ind. Rev. Albert Ogle, Indianapolis, Ind. Dr. E. B. Bryan, Franklin, Ind. Rev. Vichart. Fort Wayne, Ind. Ret. Encell, Fort Wayne, Ind. Rev. Ray Miller. Fort Wayne. Ind. Rev. Bhamhart, Fort Wayne. Ind. The following works have been consulted bearing upon the history of each ehurch: "A History of the Baptist Churches in the United States,” by A. H. Newman. D.D., LLD. “History of all RoMgtone,” by William

Dcatur, Indiana. Thursday, October 24 1907.

Bil’der, B.A. “The University Encyclopedia,” by Henry M. MacCracken, D.D., LL.D. "The Holy Bible.” E. EARNEST BERGMAN. —— ■ -—o SOME OTHER SOCIETY NEWS Rebecca Lodge Held Session—Special Evangelistic Service at M. E. Church this Week. A most enjoyable and sociable gathering was held at the G. A. R. hall Monday night when members of the W. R. C. and their families numbering seventy-five in all, met to enjoy an evening of pleasure. An excellent supper was served by the W. R. C. members and the tables were heavilyladen with good things to eat. Songs and recitations featured the amusement part of the program and Dr. Rainear assisted by other members, rendered several silent laughing stunts that drew applause from the merry party. The evening was enjoyed as only old soldiers and their families can and this occasion will be long remmbered by those who were in attendance. There will be special evangelistic services at the Methodist church every night this week with the exception of Saturday night. Rev. E. E. Bergman, of the Baptist church will preach tonight and the services promise to be quite interesting. The public is cordially’ invited to attend these services. The Ladies’ Aid Society of the Presbyterian church will gather at the home of Mrs. Jesse Sutton next Thursday afternoon for an autumn leaf hunt. Plans have been perfected to make this a most interesting session and all members should be present to assist in doing so. Monday night at their home on north Second street, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Loch entertained a number of their friends at six o’clock dinner with Mr. Raymond Berould, of Warren, Pa., as guest of honor. A dainty luncheon was served, after which music and games -were indulged in. Those present were: Misses Frances Merryman, Marie Beery, Zoa Miller and Madge Hite. A most delightful time was had by all. About thirty of the friends and neighbors of Mrs. Mike Meibers gathered at her home Monday night to assist in celebratingherbirthday anniversary. The affair was a complete surprise to Mrs. Meibers but after recovering from the shock, she joined the guests in enjoying an evening of pleasure. Progressive pedro was the prevailing amusement in which Mrs. John Christen and Reuben Lord secured the first prizes, Mrs. Anna Yahne and Jess Laughrey capturing the boobies. After awarding the prizes a delicious two course luncheon was served by the hostess and the guests presented her with a beautiful dish. The guests departed wishing Mrs. Meibers many more such happy ocasions. Those present were Messrs, and Mesdames John Christen, Reuben Lord, Jess Loughrey, Frank Keller, Charles Zeser, John Spuhler and Messrs. Ray Christen, Adam Schafer and Marcus Mayer, Mesdames Joe Tonnelier, Anna Yahne, Bud Brokaw and Miss Rose Tonnelier. The ladies of the congregation of the Presbyterian church and their friends are invited to attend the hunt for autumn leaves at the home of Mrs. J. C. Sutton. Thursday afternoon. All requested to be present at 2:30 sharp the entertainment being such that their presence is requested at the stated time.

Mr. and Mrs. E. K. Ray have“returned from Alma, Mich., where they spent the summer and have again taken up their residence at Monroe. The interlocking switch system at the junction of the three roads Is fast nearing completion and will soon be ready to. put in use. The plant is a fine one, and is expected to boa safeguard against any accidents to the traveling public. The improvement on Seventh street is going along very slowly owing to the feet that the material is slow oa casing in. Mr. Haugk to expecting the material every day and as ssea as the same arrives will push tho work rapidly to completion.

CORTELYOU MUM A3 OYSTER Nothing to Say on Campaign Contributions —Off Year Elections Not Exciting. Washington, October 22. —The Federal government took another advanced step in its warfare against trusts. It has seized trust goods passing as interstate traffic. Acting under orders fi.om the attorney-general a $7,000 shipment of leaf tobacco, consigned from Durham, N. C., to the BritishAmerican Tobacco Company, of Great Britain, has been attached at Norfolk. The action has been taken under section 6 of the Sherman antitrust law, which authorized the seizure and condemnation by the government of jvoperty of any trust while in interstate or foreign commerce. This is the first time the section has been enforced, but it is understood that similar action may be taken against the products of other trusts, and the government charges that one-thi. d of its $30,000,000 capital is held by the Imperial Tobacco company, and the balance by the American Tobacco company. Washington, October 22. —Secretary Cortelyou will not at this time, nor in the immediate future, make any statement regarding the campaign collections by the Republican national committee in 1904. While he was away on his vacation the alleged details of the collections in that campaign were published by a New Yo;k newspaper, and in some quarters it was believed that Mr. Cortelyou, on his return to his desk, would have something to say on thes übject. He was back at the Treasury today, but not a word came from him about the contributions. It is known by his intimate friends that he feels keenly the sting of the criticisms of his conduct of the financial end of the campaign and it will be a surprise if he does not at some future time tell the whois story of how the insurance contributions and the Harriman fund were raised. Washington. October 22. —Off year elections have been eliminated until this year’s campaigns hardly get a two-line head in the newspapers. The elections which will take place two weeks from tomorrow are, generally speaking, of small importance. None of them will have any particular bearing on national politics. Six states elect governors. These are Kentucky Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey and Rhode Island. In a few other states judicial officers are to be chosen, and local officers elected.

AND EXPLAINS HIS POSITION Says His Father Was Taken to the Infirmary Before He Knew it and Was too Sick to Move. B0:ne, Ind., Oct. 21, 1907. Daily Democrat, Decatur, Ind.: Gentlemen —I hereby wish to state that the item appearing in the Berne Witness of Oct. 18th and also in the Daily Democrat, concerning the death of my father, and the incarcerating him in the county infirmary, was a gross misrepresentation of my part in the sad affair. My father lived at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Jacob Vogt, In Bluecreek township the past few years, and it was through her efforts that he was taken to the Infirmary by the trustee of Bluecreek township. I did not know anything of the affair until I was notified by Supt. Graber several days afterward. I at once went to the infirmary and when I called my father was already too ill to be removed and consequently died in the county poor house against my wishes. I wish to state to the general public that the item charging me with heathenish actions has no foundation whatever, as I can verify every statement in this article. Even though my father died la the county Institution, I paid all expenses Incurred through hla sickness and death. Respectfully, Fred Augeburger. ———————————— Mr. and Mrs. O. D. Deldy, who visited, ever Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Maley Bennett south Portland, returned Monday to their homo at Deestw—Fortland Review.

DIVORCEGRANTED THI3 MORNING To Martin Martz—Demurrers Argued —New Criminal Case Was Filed. The statement that court would clbse this week was an error, the September term continuing through next week. Cora Knepper vs. William H. Knepper. divorce, defendant ruled to answer within five days. Clara Watkins vs. John Watkins, complaint for support, demurrer to answer overruled. Martin F. Martz was granted a divorce from May H. Martz this morning, after- the court had heard the testimony, which was conclusive. In the case of Mary Rice vs. Clement J. B. Rice, divorce and alimony, Peterson and Moran entered their appearance for the defendant. John Watkins vs. Clara Watkins, divorce, the plaintiff filed a counter showing to the application for a divorce. Plaintiff ordered to pay $lO for defendant. Charles J. H. Hower vs. Dora J. Hower, divorce, plaintiff ordered to pay into court SIO.OO for use of defendant. In the case of Ed Green vs. D. D. Coffee, mayor, to mandate him to sign a warrant for salary, the attorneys argued a demurrer this morning, but the court did not give his decision. Abraham Weil et al vs. Charles F. Davison, suit on contract, demurrer overruled. General denial filed. The ditch petitioned for by William Glendening et al was ordered constructed and referred to the county surveyor whose bond was fixed at $2,600. The attorney was allowed SSO. A new criminal case was filed in blank this morning, the charge being assault with intent to kill. A bench warrant was issued and the bond fixed at SSOO. —o — A letter was received this marning from Monk Engle stating that he was at. his parents’ home at Eureka. 111. eating three meals a day and enjoying life immensely. Monk says he will go to the O. P. league next season and play with Sharon. He is a ball player from the word go, and will no doubt make good right off the handle. He sends his regards to all his flriends.

LEFT HERE THIS MORNING Will Go to Washington Tomorrow— Expects to Make Cruise AroUnd the World. Kurt Johnson left Tuesday for Fort Wayne, where he reports to the U. S. irecruiung station for service In the marine co*ps. He enlisted last Saturday and was ordered to report Tuesday prepared to go to Washington Wednesday. After thirty days' training service theie he expects to leave on a cruise around the world, requir ing two years. His enlistment is for four years, during which time he ex pects to do service on the coast of China, Japan, Philippine Islands and other countries. Before leaving Kurt called at this office and asked us to announce his departure this time and to state also that he expects to send money to his mother to pay any accounts he may owe to Decatur merchants. He had no trouble in passing the examination and anticipates a great trip during the next four year* —— o. . . Irene, the seven-year-old daughter of Roy Venis and wife, nwrowly escaped being burned to death Saturday afternoon. She was in the yard of their home, on west Market street, making a bonfire out of leaves, when in some manner, her clothes caught on Are. Mrs. Vsnls heard the child crying for help and when she arrived on ths scene the girl was * mass of flames. She tore the child's clothes off. saving her from being seriously burned. As it was the girt was burned slightly oa the fees and one hand while Mrw. Veals had both heads burned painfully.—Bluffton Banner.

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ON THE CHARGE OF FERJURY His Father Made Effort to Secure Hie Release on that Charge But He Failed. After a career of crime extending over many years, Frank Cotton, a notorious Bluffton young man, must stand trial. Speaking of the cases against him the Bluffton News says: Efforts which were made Saturday in Frank Cotton's behalf, In an endeavor to have the charge of perjury dismissed against him in circuit court at Portland, with the understanding that he would pelad guilty to the charge of issuing a fraudulent check, pending against him in court here, were unavailing, according to information given the News. The effort at a compromise was made by Cotton’s father, George W. Cotton, of Elkhart, who came here Saturday for that purpose. He was hopeful of getting the perjury charge, in which the penalty is three to twenty-one years, dismissed, and have F ( ank plead guilty to the charge here, in which a minimum sentence of one year may be imposed. His proposed compromise did not agree, however, with Prosecutor Emschwlller’s views on the matter. After the fruitless trip to Hartford City to see the prosecuting attorney George Cotton returned to this city and gave bond in the sum of S4OO for Frank’s release from jail on the fraudulent check charge. Frank was already under bond of SSOO for the charge at Portland, and his total bonded value now is S9OO. Frank was anxious to give bond on the charge here, so that he would not have to go to Portland in charge of the sheriff, which would have given him a black eye right at the outset of his t ial. Sheriff Lipkey is summoning witnesses to go to Portland on Thursday of this week for Cotton’s trial on the perjury charge. This charge grew out of alleged false testimony before the grand jq y last spring. THEY ELECTED DIRECTORS, » ■.’J 1 In. « Bank of Berne Hold Their Annual Election. The stockholders of the bank of Berne met in annual session Saturday morning in the directors’ room to transact banking business. In the election of directors the result was as follows: C. A. Neuenschwander, J. F. Lehman, Jesse Rupp, Levi A. Sprunger, Levi Moser, A. Gottschalk and R. K. Allison, of Decatur. The directors elected C. A. Neuenschwander president, J. F. Lehman, vice president, Jesse Rupp, cashier and Miss Etta Welty, teller. This is a re-elec-tion of all the old officers with the exception of Miss Welty, who receives a promotion from the position of bookkeeper alone to that of teller and bookkeeper. The regular semi-annual four per cent dividend plus an additional one per cent was declared. The bank has been envying a steady growth and is one of the solid financial Institutions of the county.—Berne Witness. o - - ... ■■ WAS KNOWN IN DECATUR Was Eighty-Four Years Old and Has Been 111 But a Few Days— Funeral Thursday. Word was received Monday night by Mrs. E. ij. carroll from Huntsville, Ohio, announcing that her father, John Shaughnessy, aged eighty-four years had died late Monday afternoon after an Illness of only a few days duration. The immediate cause of his death was a complication of diseases and old age. Mr. Shaughnessy was one of the oldest settlers in that section of the state and had made his home at Huntsville for years. He visited here about a year ago with bls daughter, Mrs. Carroll, at which time many Decatur people met him. The funeral services will be held Thursday morning at Huntsville and Interment will be made la the family burial plot, at that place. Mrs. Carroll and eon loft Tuesday afternoon for Huntsville to bo In attendance at the funeral. Mr. Carroll went to Huntsville Tuesday morning. — Mies Victoria Stone to home from Canal Wlaehoetor. 0., whore she was vtoltlag with her eoaoin. Miss Nora Hasten.

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