Rare Book Monthly
Articles - October - 2003 Issue
The Doctrine of Caiaphas by Rev. David Murdoch D.D.
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The first notice I received from this new board of my united friends, was the following: -
December 15th, 1859
Rev. D. Murdoch:
Dear Sir, - Absence from town, and an unusual press of business for the past week in my office, have prevented me, up to this time, from seeing you, and delivering a message which I was appointed to do; therefore, I hope you will pardon me if I communicate in writing, though I greatly prefer to see you personally. About a week ago the Trustees had a meeting, at which the aspect of affairs in our church and congregation were generally discussed, but no opinion, as to what was proper or advisable to be done was expressed by the Board. A diversity of opinion, as a matter of course, exists upon the question, and all feel a reluctance to look at it. Yet all agree upon the fact, that our condition is anything but satisfactory, and some action will soon be forced upon us. Neither the Session nor the Trustees feel disposed to volunteer counsel to you; but they all agreed that it was due from them that you should be put in possession of all the facts existing, so far as they understand them. They feel that you have rights and interests to be protected and cared for, and at the same time that the Society has equal claims upon their care and protection, and they cannot shrink [shirk] the entire responsibility, though they would gladly do it. It is a matter of grave import, and should, and I trust will, be considered by us all in a prayerful spirit. The great desire of the Trustees is to have matters adjusted in a quiet and harmonious way, and prevent, if possible, any public demonstration or rupture.
The message I was entrusted to deliver to you, after stating the few facts I have, that if you desired to see the Trustees, and hold a consultation with them, they will be happy to meet you at such time and place as you may designate. Now a word for myself.
To guard against any erroneous impressions which, naturally enough, you might entertain, let me emphatically, not only for myself, but for each member of the Board of trustees, that the same friendly feeling exists toward you that ever has; and if any course of action is taken, or any advise is given, which may look adverse, it is nevertheless, with as deep a desire for your good and prosperity, as that of the church and congregation. I believe there is not one member of the Board of Trustees but has as ardent a desire for your interest, as a minister and a citizen, as they ever had.
I am, respectfully, yours,
Orrin Robinson
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