Subject: INCIDENTS #27 From: ELIZABETH RUSSO Date: October 30, 1998 INCIDENTS AND CHARACTERS IN THE EARLY HISTORY OF METHODISM By The Reverend John Elmore DuBois Edited by Elizabeth A. DuBois (c) 1998 DuBois Publishing Co, Simsbury, Connecticut. All rights reserved. Nine A Study in Contrasts My last paper was closed by an incident, showing the unfortunate effects of excessive levity on the part of a minister, whose name, for reasons I did not call. I shall begin this by relating another of the same party, which further shows the unfortunate influence of such a practice on the part of the minister. Mr. Wm. Rowland, a pious member of our Church, Rev. L. Q. G. DeYampert and the preacher above alluded to, started on a tour out West. For some reason, best known to themselves, the ministers decided not to make known their calling. In their travels, this unnamed preacher indulged freely in his ruling propensity for vulgar anecdote, very much to the annoyance and disgust of his more refined and dignified companions. Finally they were joined by another gentleman traveling in the same direction. After listening to the conversation of this indiscreet minister for some time, the new companion and Mr. Rowland dropped back and for a time rode together. After some sharp criticism on the part of the stranger, Mr. R., told him the talker was a minister. Immediately on overtaking the other two, the stranger said, "I am told you are a preacher." The reply was, "I am, sir." Then in language more pointed than respectful, he was severely rebuked. It is to be hoped that this chastisement made him a more prudent and discreet man, and that the recital of this incident may restrain our young men who are over-charged with a spirit of levity. Preachers cannot be too cautious in their deportment. The apostle's warning was, "Avoid foolish jesting." [To be continued] ==== SCROOTS Mailing List ==== Go To: #, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z, Main |