p. 43 | Startling Statistics by Editor

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 5, 1864

Startling Statistics

By Editor

STARTLING STATISTICS.—A writer in the Christian Mirror gives a tabular statement of the Congregational churches in 23 States and Territories for 1862-3, and in view of the result he thinks when nearly one fourth of the whole number of Congregational ministers in the land are reported as not in service, some public notice should be taken of the fact, as one not consistent with our normal condition. When there are 49 less ministers this year than last, and 72 less pastors, and 218 less stated supplies; where there are 16 more vacant churches, 568 more removals, and 140 more excommunications; with an average accession to each church of less than one and a half during the year; when the proportion of infant baptisms to the number of church members is only one baptism to 58 members, in a whole year; I think it highly proper that the state of things which these facts disclose, should be brought plainly before the notice of all, lay members, as well as ministers.

We think so too. It is a loud call to be up and doing.