MANUAL OF THE FIRST HEBREW-CHRISTIAN CHURCH, IN AMERICA. No. 17 ST. MARK'S PLACE. NEW YORK. THE REV. JACOB FRESHMAN, PASTOR. NOVEMBER, 1885.
CONTENTS.
ORIGIN OF THE WORK.
With a view to the Glory of God, I desire to give a short, account of the history of the first Hebrew-Christian Church in America. I do not propose in this connection to give an account of my own life and conversion. Such an account may be published hereafter. Suffice it to say, that after my conversion from Judaism to Christianity, and having labored as an ordained Christian minister, I was strongly led to devote my life to the work of preaching Christ to the 80,000 Jews in New York City.
We accepted a very kind invitation from Mr. and Mrs. Jackson to hold a weekly prayer-meeting in a little upper room on East Tenth Street.
The first regular Sunday service was held on the first Sunday in January, 1882, in Room 24, Cooper Union. I proposed in our services at Cooper Union that as soon as we would have the names of ten converted Hebrews we would organize a Hebrew-Christian Congregation. In this we followed the custom of the Jewish Synagogue, which must have ten members to constitute it a congregation. At the end of two months we were able to do this. Our Hebrew-Christian congregation now duly formed, we were so fortunate as to be able to rent for our worship the convenient and inviting Lecture Room of the Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church, Dr. Howard Crosby, pastor. We remained here for nine months. The infant work, however, had to struggle to maintain its existence. The burden of meeting expenses became too great to be borne, and we rented quarters in the vestry of the Seventh Street Methodist Church, where we held week-night meetings, and took the Sunday preaching service into our own house. Of course, there were those who would attend a meeting in a public place who would not go to a private house, even if there had been accommodations in the crowded rooms for all. The lack of sympathy on the part of Christian people was so great that the question arose in my own mind whether the indications were such as to warrant me in believing that it was the Lord's will that I should go on. While in the consideration of this question the door was opened for me to go to England. While there I saw how labor for the conversion of God's ancient people was being blessed. I witnessed the baptism of Israelites on several occasions. I spoke at meetings in Jewish mission-halls; I became fired with new zeal in witnessing the part that Christians took in behalf of the Jewish people, — praying, working, giving, — and I came home determined to persevere.
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In addition to all I saw of Jewish work in England, had I not seen at the Mildmay Conference that great meeting of Christian people, with Lord Cairns in the chair, in earnest conference on the subject of the salvation of the Jewish people, I should have missed one strong incentive to go on with the work in America.
So, putting my trust in God, we again rented Room 24, in Cooper Union for our Sunday preaching. A few weeks after a gentleman kindly came forward and said he would pay the rent of that hall for us for an entire year. We thanked God, and took courage. We had many interesting services. Many Israelites heard the Word. Some were converted and were baptized. But owing to repairs to be made in the building, and which would require an indefinite time, we were asked to vacate our room. We were then literally on the street. Diligent search was made for suitable headquarters, or at least shelter for our preaching service, which had grown in numbers far beyond our house room, but in vain. No place could be obtained. Time and labor in searching were lost. We implored the Lord to give us a place that might be a permanent headquarters for this work. An account of the wonderful way in which the Lord brought about the accomplishment of our desires may strengthen the faith of other workers for the upbuilding of His kingdom. Nothing seemed more unlikely from a human point of view than our coming into almost immediate possession of a permanent place of worship. I had been on the lookout in this neighborhood, hoping against hope, that I might see some door open to us, when one day I walked through St. Mark's Place, and saw that this house, which had been used for a public school, was offered for rent. I came in and saw the owner. He wanted to rent the building, but did not want to sell it; in fact, he had no idea whatever of selling it. This seemed very unpropitious. Of course, I could not rent it; I could not undertake such a responsibility. But the place was in the right locality; it was in many respects just what we needed. Calling upon the owner several times, he seemed to sympathize with my great need of a place to carry on the work. The Lord touched his heart. Although at first he would not entertain the thought of selling it, he at last consented to do so. I consulted with my Advisory Committee, and they told me to drop everything, and secure the house. The result was we bought it for $20,000. We paid $5,000 down.
It was an occasion of great thanksgiving when we had obtained the full amount of this first payment of $5,000. To tell how this $5,000 was obtained, I must go back, in point of time, to an evening soon after I came to New York, when I lectured in the Church of the 3
Covenant (Presbyterian), the Rev. Marvin R. Vincent, D.D., pastor. In my lecture, I said that we ought to have in this city a building of our own, for the Hebrew-Christian work. It seemed to me one might be obtained for $20,000. At the close of the lecture, Dr. Vincent introduced the late Hon. Wm. E. Dodge and his wife, members of that church. Mr. Dodge, with his well-known liberality and directness in doing good, at once most kindly and cordially said, that if I would raise $19,000 toward obtaining a building, he would give the last $1,000. I desire here to express my deep sense of the great kindness and most helpful promptness of Mrs. Dodge, in sending me a check for $1,000 to enable us to make the first payment.
The Rev. D. Stuart Dodge, son of the late Hon. Wm. E. Dodge, also most kindly gave me $500. We had some time before started in our paper The Hebrew-Christian, a column for subscriptions, and thus some amounts had been coming in. Then, too, when, as mentioned above, I visited England and Scotland in the Summer of 1883, and lectured on the Jewish People, kind friends there helped me; the Hon. S. Morley giving me L 100. And now, other friends here, whose names have appeared in the Hebrew-Christian, came to our help to make up the $5,000, and that amount was paid down, and the papers drawn up. We gave a mortgage for $10,000 at five per cent. This we hope to carry from year to year without finding the burden too great. But the remaining $5,000 embarrasses us. We are anxious to wipe it away at once, particularly as we have to pay six per cent on that; while, in addition, we need $4,000 to pay for repairs, alterations and furnishings. If a check for $10,000 would come to us, we would be on our feet; though the running expenses of this work, rent of the Allen Street Hall, paying salaries to missionary assistants, etc., etc., still remain to be provided for. This is saying nothing of our own living. We receive no salary, but trust in the God of our fathers, who fed His people in the olden times, to supply our need.
The Lord has indeed wonderfully blessed us. It is His work. When I was looking around for a builder I was providentially led, as I think, to the right man, Lewis H. Williams, Esq., a kind Christian gentleman, contractor and builder, who undertook the work because he was in hearty sympathy with the endeavor to extend the Redeemer's Kingdom among Israel. While repairs were progressing, I purposely read at our family worship the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. How we were touched again and again by the Lord's dealings with His people. How deeply were we impressed by His faithfulness and covenant care. And since we have come into this
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place, now dedicated to His service, many and many a time each day my good wife exclaims: “PRAISE THE LORD.” We do testify to His faithfulness, and though we feel the financial demands of the work at times a burden, almost insufferable, we are kept in peace while we yet make every exertion; and we believe that known unto the Lord are the wants of His people, and that He who has called us to this work will carry it on to His honor and glory.
RETROSPECTION AND HOPE. [Reported.]
The last Friday evening prayer meeting held at the Pastor's house before removal to the new headquarters, was an occasion of tender retrospection and renewed consecration. It was opened by Mr. Freshman with the reading of the 121st Psalm. After prayer and sacred song, the 2d Chapter of the 1st Epistle of John, as far as the 20th verse, was made the subject of consideration. Mr. Freshman dwelt upon the injunction of the Apostle, “that ye sin not,” but most comfortingly presented the remedy which our Christianity alone offers. If temptation prove too strong, and we are unadvisedly overcome, we have an “advocate.” That remarkable word, translated “advocate,” was considered in the depth and breadth of its manifold meaning. The whole love of God is poured upon us through Jesus. There is no other way whereby we may receive it.
In commenting upon the Apostle's words, “I write unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” Mr. Freshman spoke with much feeling of the young men who had found the Messiah, and become identified with this Hebrew-Christian work. “Four of them,” said he, “have this month been placed, through the instrumentality of this work in Christian seminaries to be prepared for the work of the ministry,” and he went on to speak of the strength which can only be obtained by having the word of God abiding within. In regard to the Apostle's statement, “Even now there are many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time,” comment was made upon the boldness of modern infidelity, and the certainty of Christ's coming. “O,” said the speaker, “let us be ready to meet our Lord and adorable Saviour,” and after a pause he added, “I will stop here: my heart is full.”
Then followed a retrospect of the work soon to be transferred to the new headquarters. The difficulties through which the Lord's
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faithfulness had brought them, the hard and lonely work of the past three years, and the Lord's sustaining grace were made abundant mention of. Seven times had the meeting been uprooted and transplanted. In rooms and halls too big, and in quarters that were altogether too small, the meetings had refused to die, and now the prayer so many times offered for a permanent home for services had been granted. Prayer for blessing on the new church-home followed.
Mrs. Freshman offered fervent prayer with thanksgiving for “the mercies received in these rooms, that have been so sacred to us.” The Lord's presence in the new home was implored. “Without Thy presence we cannot go,” was the plea. “Thou alone knowest all the trials we pass through. Make us patient. Watch over us. Bless the absent ones who have given their hearts to Thee in these rooms and those who have received baptism here, wherever they may now be scattered,” were portions of the petition.
A young man in prayer said: “Thou knowest how many have been blessed and comforted and saved here. Go to the new house with us: bless those who shall come there.”
Dr. Meyrowitz, himself a converted Hebrew, made excellent, instructive and comforting remarks, in appropriate and further exposition of the Scripture that had been read.
A young man, a Hebrew, who is now a student in the Union Theological Seminary, in this city, said: “The whole history of my Christian experience has found its course in this room. Here is where I came to life. Oh, the joyful revelation that came to me here! I can say that when I first came to this room, I was without any knowledge of the world's Messiah. I heard the prayers, I listened to the instructions, and it seemed to me that this was the true way. Friday after Friday I came here; Friday after Friday the Lord Jesus Christ was held up as the Saviour, and I was led to see Him as my Saviour. How many have been blessed, how many have been comforted here! I am sorry to leave this place; to think this is the last meeting to be held here. On the other hand, I can't help shouting, `Praise the Lord for giving us a place of worship; praise Him for establishing His work!'”
Numerous prayers and testimonies followed. One gentleman said he had longed to see a Hebrew-Christian work established in this city before Mr. Freshman came; had prayed for it, and when Mr. Freshman did come, he looked so much like the man he had
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unconsciously pictured to himself whom he wanted the Lord to send, that he almost felt as though he had seen his photograph. This gentleman's joy in view of permanent headquarters, was full of thanksgiving. A Jewish brother who had spent some time in Jerusalem, gave an interesting account of the work for the Jews there, under the patronage of bankers, merchants, and many different classes of supporters. He thought Mr. Freshman's work here more wonderful than any Jewish work he had seen elsewhere. A concluding remark was: “Wherever I go, I see the Gospel is spreading among the Jews.”
At the close of the meeting, two Israelites united with the Hebrew-Christian Church.
DEDICATORY SERVICES OF THE FIRST HEBREW-CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA.
[Our kind friend MR. ROBERT LEADBETTER, who reported our first day's services, prefixed them with the following introduction.—ED.]
The dedicatory services of the first Hebrew-Christian Church in America were held in its building, 17 St. Mark's Place, New York, on Sabbath morning, October 11, 1885.
Though the church now erected is not large, yet it was only after the most herculean efforts of Mr. Freshman and his wife, amid opposition and discouragement from which others would have shrunk, that the present building was secured. There is seating capacity for about 200. The floor is covered with a rich red and black carpet; and the soft, subdued brown gilt paper on the walls gives it a very cosy and attractive appearance, especially when the sun streams in at any of the stained glass windows.
Behind the pulpit in gold letters on the wall there is a copy of the Lord's Prayer in Hebrew. There are two large stained glass windows; one, with a beautiful crown in the centre, has the inscription, “The Gift of Lewis H. Williams.” The other, with an open Bible in the middle, is a memorial window to Mr. Freshman's father, containing these words: “In Memoriam. Rev. Charles Freshman, D.D., born Nov. 19, 1819. Died Jan. 4, 1875.”
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As the hour approached for opening the services, Mr. Freshman, accompanied by the Rev. Bishop William L. Harris, D.D., LL.D., entered by a side door. Mrs. Freshman was seated at the organ. As they entered, the notes of an opening voluntary glided involuntarily into the strong, firm harmony of the Doxology, and, without announcement or premeditation, the congregation rose to their feet and all united in singing “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” After this unpremeditated expression of praise and thanksgiving which so fervently voiced the sentiment of the hour, the formal services were opened with the singing of the hymn, “Before Jehovah's Awful Throne.” After prayer by Bishop Harris, Mrs. Freshman and Mrs. E. P. Marshall, of Cincinnati, a sister of Mr. Freshman, sang with much expression, “The Coming of the Kingdom Draweth Near.” Bishop Harris read, for the first lesson, the prayer of Solomon at the dedication of the Temple at Jerusalem. Mr. Freshman read the second lesson from Hebrews x, after which the congregation sang, “I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord.”
THE SERMON.
Bishop Harris took for his text, Isaiah, lxiii. 1: “Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? This that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.” The Bishop spoke substantially as follows: The spirit of prophecy rested in a very eminent degree upon Isaiah, and under its inspiration he wrote the most wonderful book: On no subject did he write with greater fullness and clearness than in relation to the Messiah. There was accorded to him clearer views of the Messiah than to any other prophet, except, perhaps, John the Baptist, who was contemporary with Christ, and who had the distinguished honor of inducting Him into His earthly ministry by the priestly washing at the Jordan.
Isaiah has been called an evangelical prophet, because he seems to have lived in his visions and prophecies in the very midst of Gospel times. And he lived and wrote of Christ and His glory as if he was then a spectator of its fulfilment.
He had full clear views of Christ's primal glory. Here Bishop Harris gave from memory the vision of Christ in Isaiah, sixth chapter.
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This was one of the most glorious visions ever accorded to man. I have seen the King in his glory. What a sight? And this was Jesus, who was revealed. In John xii. 41, advancing a certain doctrine concerning Christ, he makes a citation from this very chapter to prove it, saying “These things saith Esais, when he saw his glory, and spake of him.”
Isaiah had clear views of the incarnation as well as of the primal glory of Christ. “The Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Immanuel.”….“And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” Looking down the line of time, he says, “Unto us a child is born.”
Isaiah saw and wrote distinctly of Christ's deep humiliation as well as of His subsequent glory and triumph. “Who hath believed our report?” Here Bishop Harris recited the fifty-third chapter.
Here we have His incarnation, suffering, rejection, death, resurrection, atonement, intercession, and subsequent triumph and extension of His government over the whole earth.
Now this was written 800 years before these things took place, and it looks more like history than prophecy. It was as if Isaiah had gone through the wilderness, unto the Garden of Gethsemane, through Herod's judgment seat, up into Pilate's judgment hall, with Him to the cross, gone with Him to Golgotha, and was with Him and felt the gushing blood as it started from His side. Written so long before, and yet literally fulfilled.
Christ did this that He might redeem us from sin and bring us back to God.
Isaiah saw some one coming up from Bozrah, the capital of Edom, and inquires, “Who is this?” And as he comes nearer, and the vision gets clearer, he sees that his garments are stained with blood. He seems to be a victor. He is glorious in his apparel. He looks like a majestic conqueror, and asks in the language of our text just quoted.
And this mighty one responds, “I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.”
Interpreters have generally supposed that this was Jesus in His exaltation thus revealed. Let us look at Christ in His exalted state, 9
declaring His power to save; to make men holy here, and holy and happy in eternity.
Let me show you from Scripture, which is the word of God, that Jesus was the Christ.
There are two passages, taken directly from this chapter which I have read, to describe the person who was revealed to John in his vision on the Isle of Patmos. Here Bishop Harris read the vision of Christ on the white horse —“And He is called Faithful and True and the Word of God,”— two descriptive terms that represent Jesus Christ. And, again, He was “a faithful witness.” And, again, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God.” (Here the Bishop read up to the 15th verse of the first chapter of St. John's Gospel.)
And, again, we read, “He trod the wine press alone.” And beyond that Isaiah saw written, “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
This was revealed not alone to Isaiah, but also to John the seer, in Patmos' lonely Isle. It corresponds, however, to the vision which Isaiah had 800 years before. To Isaiah, He is revealed in His glorious apparel while He travelled in the greatness of His strength.
John also saw a vision of Christ's glory. He was a faithful preacher, and in carrying on his work, he gave offence to the king, whose sin was brought home to him, and he, in his indignation, cast John into prison. Here, in his loneliness, John began to doubt whether Christ was after all the Messiah, when He had allowed him to be so treated. Then he sent to Christ and asked, “Art Thou He who should come, or look we for another?” The Saviour did not answer the question directly, for He knew John knew the prophets; and so He sent back the message, “Go and tell John what ye see and hear; the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and to the poor the Gospel is preached. And blessed is he — a word of admonition to John — that shall not be offended in me.” These words were the attestation of the Sonship of the Messiah.
Then Christ was transfigured before Peter, James and John. Of this we know but little, except that His countenance shone as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light, and Moses and Elias appeared with Him. Moses represented the law, and Elijah the prophets. We know that they were talking of the decease which He should accomplish at Jerusalem. Peter knew that these men were not dead, 10
and he says, “Lord, it is good to be here. Let us make here three tabernacles. One for Thee, one for Moses, and one for Elias.” Peter was so happy that he forgot himself. And while he yet spoke, a cloud overshadowed them, and behold a voice out of the cloud said, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye him.” On hearing this, they fell to the ground. Then Jesus said, “Be not afraid.” Ah, they had seen such a vision as had never before been accorded to mortal eyes!
Then at the resurrection of Christ, when the angel rolled back the stone, how preposterous it was for that Roman guard to keep up its sad tramp, tramp, before that tomb! He came out in spite of them; and when the angel appeared, the watchers quaked and became as dead men.
Then before Christ's departure, He went on His way to Bethany with some of them. Some one wanted to know if He would again restore to them the Kingdom of Israel. They thought that sinecures in the shape of ambassadors and prime ministers awaited His immediate followers, and they wanted their share. But he told them of a greater thing than that. He said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
Then He departed, and while they looked, angels appeared, and said, “This same Jesus shall come again.” We know how He disappeared in the cloud, but we do not know how He was received in heaven. That has not been vouchsafed for mortal man to know. That head, that had been crowned with thorns, is crowned with glory now.
“God hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name above every name. Before Him every knee shall bow.”
Heaven is not hermetically sealed since Christ went there. Take the first martyr, Stephen, who was stoned to death because of his devotion to Christ. Hear him say, “I see heaven opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
It was a remarkable attitude for Christ. Nowhere since He ascended is He represented otherwise than sitting. But here the extraordinary posture seems to indicate that He had risen to welcome the martyr home, to the abodes of the blessed and to the mansions in the skies.
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Then Paul was overcome by the light in his mad career of persecution. “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” “Who art thou, Lord?” Paul inquires. “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” Paul imagined that he could do many things contrary to the name of Jesus. He cast believers into prison, and sought in every way to annoy them. “Why persecutest thou me?” Paul gives us two distinct accounts of that vision.
John had also another vision in his lonely place of banishment, in which he was commanded to write to the churches. Again he saw Christ walking before him in the midst of the candlesticks. He saw Him in His glory.
Christ is the Omnipotent One, before whom no foe on earth or hell can stand. There was a time when it seemed as if wickedness had triumphed, when in mad exultation His enemies shouted victory. It was a short triumph. Christ came forth from the tomb, and brought immortality to light. He opened the kingdom of God to all believers. That was Christ's triumph. All enemies will be put under His feet.
Christianity never compromised with any system of morality in order to get an introduction. But it began, and continued, and now it is the dominant factor of the world. He is mighty to save.
Christ undertook to save a lost world. To make atonement for the sins of the people, to reconcile, cleanse, and present them to Himself. When God inquired, “Whom shall I send?” no one offered to do the work. Angels stood back. Then Christ said, “I will go.” The conflict between light and darkness was brief. Christ went through the wine press alone. From the wilderness to the moment He cried, “It is finished,” He was alone. Alone in temptation, alone in Gethsemane. At last, His cry was “My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?”
But He has wrought a mighty salvation. Matchless, glorious, exalted love.
The mightiness of this salvation has been indicated in the character of the persons who have been saved by its influence. Manasseh, in the 33d Chapter of 2d Chronicles, had a vast catalogue of crimes enumerated against him. He got into trouble, repented, called on God for deliverance. And God forgave him, and took him out of his distress. Then there was Saul. He had unexampled
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opportunities for doing good, and yet he has himself said he was the chief of sinners. Then there was Mary Magdalene. Time would fail to speak of the distinguished men and women who have been saved by this mighty salvation.
I commend to you this Saviour to-day. Come unto Him all ye who labor and are heavy laden, and He will give you rest. Take His yoke upon you and learn of Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Millions of sinners, vile as you, have here found life and peace. Come, then, and prove this for yourself.
Christ has secured for you pardon from sin, freedom from the love of sin and from the dominion of it over you, and from your continuation in it.
From all sin we may be made free by Christ's salvation. Who will now accept it? Oh, the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus Christ! What acquaintance have you with this exalted and divine Saviour?
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After singing “All hail the power of Jesus' name,” the Rev. Mr. Freshman said, “More than twenty years ago, my father, mother, three sisters, and three brothers and myself were baptized and admitted into the Christian church. God has done great things for me. I have had invitations to go and preach elsewhere, where I would have a good salary; but the Lord has laid this work on our hearts, and it is a great struggle for us. With no salary, we go on. We have a down-town hall, for which we pay $50.00 per month. Many a time we have not a dollar, but we are still rejoicing and happy. We just go and tell the Lord, and then tell His people, and the Lord has not forsaken us. We have purchased this building. It cost $20,000. We have paid $5,000. Who will help us clear off the $15,000, so that we may go on, untrammelled by this burden? There are six young men, Hebrews, who are being educated for the Christian ministry, who but for us, and our work, would not be so engaged. We say it humbly, Bless the Lord. We meet with much opposition. In the down-town hall, it took three policemen, at first, to keep order. Now, we can get along with one.”
A collection was taken up.
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The following letters were read:
From the Right Rev. H. C. Potter, D.D., of the Protestant Episcopal Church: 96 FOURTH AVENUE New York, Sept. 19, '85
DEAR MR. FRESHMAN: — I regret that engagements of long standing will prevent my complying with your request of the 17th. Sincerely yours, H. C. POTTER.
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From the Rev. Bishop Wm. R. Nicholson, D.D., of the Reformed Episcopal Church, Philadelphia: ATLANTIC CITY, Sept. 25, 1885.
MY DEAR BROTHER: Yours of the 17th instant was forwarded to me here, and I have waited several days before answering it, earnestly hoping I might see my way clear to accept your very kind invitation. My heart is so thoroughly with you in your great work, I am so enthusiastically in sympathy with all that the prophecies tell us of Israel's grand future, it is a trial to me to have to come to the conclusion that circumstances forbid my complying with your request. So, my dear brother, painful as it is to me, I am forced to decline your invitation. The opening of a Hebrew-Christian Church is a glorious thing, and I do thank God that He has so evidently been with you in your difficult and trying labors. I feel too how great is your kindness in thus thinking of and honoring me, and, could I come to you at your auspicious Dedication, I would fly on the wings of the wind. But it is ordered otherwise. Abraham's God bless you! and our glorious Saviour, both of Jews and Gentiles, reveal Himself in the hearts of an ever-increasing number of the Jewish attendants of your ministry, and the Holy Spirit fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit!
Ever affectionately, in our great hope, WM. R. NICHOLSON.
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Then followed the dedication of the Church. Bishop Harris and Mr. Freshman responsively reading the service customary on such occasions.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
The Rev. Dr. Marvin Vincent, of the Church of the Covenant, made the opening prayer.
The Hymn, “We praise thee, O God,” was then sung, led by the choir of the Church of the Covenant (Presbyterian). This excellent choir kindly came to assist at this service, and rendered several soul-stirring anthems.
The Rev. Mr. Freshman said he had great pleasure in coming before them this afternoon. Bishop Harris preached us this morning a most powerful and delightful sermon about Christ, our wonderful, glorious Messiah. His text was about His coming in the greatness of His strength, mighty to save. Thank God, we know Him, and that He has saved some of us; we who were once far away, but have now been brought nigh through the precious blood of Christ. He had much pleasure in introducing the Rev. Wm. T. Sabine, of the Reformed Episcopal Church.
He said he was glad to welcome a Presbyterian, a Methodist, a Baptist Church, or any other Church of Christ, but he felt greater pleasure in welcoming this first Hebrew-Christian Church into their midst. He trusted that it was the forerunner of many more having the same object.
“The work is peculiar in its claims upon us and in its relations to our Israelite citizens about us. When we trace historically the course of that marvellous, that extraordinary, that wonderful people; when we look back at their trials, recall the persecutions and the treatment they have received; when we realize how large a part they have played, how large a part they are now playing, and how large a part they are destined to play in the world's history, we can but feel the importance of such a work as this. I suppose I am speaking to Christians; to those who know and love the Jewish Messiah, and who hope by the redemption He has wrought, to be saved in His everlasting kingdom; and when we remember that Jesus was a Jew, we find our hearts stirring within us toward His brethren according to the flesh. So standing here to-day, I congratulate our brother upon
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the success that has thus far attended him in the work that it has been put into his heart to do. It has been my privilege to know Mr. Freshman in his almost single-handed encounter with hostile and inclement forces in the starting of this work. I remember his steady fortitude and energy and patience of hope, and we all know him as an earnest, honest and straight-forward man. And now with the record behind you of past successes, and with this beautiful decorated chapel for a place to work from and the opportunity before you, what more, my brother, do you want? We mean to support you, and I think, among the people whom it is my privilege to serve, there is deep sympathy with your work, and I think from Philadelphia and Chicago, and wherever our congregations are, there will be a disposition to stay up this good brother's hands in his difficult work. He has a hard work to do. He will need all the help he can get.”
The Rev. Dr. Day, of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church, said: “I suppose all the brethren have come here to-day to bring the greetings of their churches. The church which I have the honor to represent feels warm interest in this work and has the largest confidence in the man who has charge of it. I express for them their hearty congratulations. And I can say with Dr. Sabine that I am better pleased to have it a Hebrew-Christian Church than though it bore our own name. Even the opening of a work which though not in all respects harmonious with our views, had the real benefit of others as its object, any agency for the betterment of mankind, I would welcome. But certainly in this Hebrew-Christian Church we are in perfect harmony. I think it can do more work for those it is designed to reach than a denominational church. As I understand it, it is for all Christian people. I have had Hebrews come to my prayer-meetings who had become interested in Christianity here. I have a young man, a local preacher, in my church, who came to me through this good brother. The Hebrew-Christian name is a good name to start under, because of its appropriateness and breadth. If there are any people we ought to be interested in, it is the people through whose instrumentality we have the Word of God, and of whose nation was the Saviour of the world. And the deep, protracted, encrusted prejudice against them ought to be removed: it ought to be time that it was done away with. Mr. Freshman, as I understand it, does not say to the Jews, `We are going to make an onslaught on you.' He does say, `We open a door for you, and for any restless inquiring soul; and we invite you to the open Book and to impartial consideration of this matter in the light of history, and of your own records.' I think we ought to have great encouragement in the work
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that has already been accomplished. Those things we call little, God often calls large. So it may be that right here in this room one of the greatest works among us is having its beginning. If a stranger years ago on John Street had looked for a certain meeting he would have found a mere handful of people gathered in a loft. Yet from that little John Street meeting what a tremendous power resulted and how wide spread are its results to-day. And so in this little chapel, in this undertaking, launched at first in such an informal way, what a mighty and far-reaching work may be having its beginning! God grant our faith may be equal to the hour and the opportunity.
“My own knowledge of Mr. Freshman dates back nearly to the beginning of the work. His record can be easily traced and his useful work as a pastor in other fields is well known. Mr. Freshman is not an adventurer; he is an accredited minister of the Gospel. We all know that he is a very restless and active, stirring man, bringing us ministers out of our studies sometimes when we wish he wouldn't. I can speak from my own experience about that. But when we come to think what it is that Brother Freshman wants of us, we realize that if there is a man in New York that we ought to give encouragement to, if there is a man that we ought to back up, Brother Freshman is that man.”
The Rev. Marvin R. Vincent, D.D., pastor of the Church of the Covenant (Presbyterian), was then introduced. Dr. Vincent in his opening remarks said that everything from a watch to the constellations required a centre, and referred to the old heathen philosopher who only wanted a place to stand upon in order to move the world. Dr. Vincent said he had watched this work with great interest; he was glad it had at last obtained a centre, and, said he, “We who are on the inside and have known Brother Freshman during all the steps of this undertaking, know that he is an active man, an earnest man, a joyful man; and though some of us have seen him at times when his hands have hung down, thank God, in a new sense our brother may be called a Fresh—man to-day.”
Alluding to what Dr. Day had said regarding small beginnings, Dr. Vincent said that the kingdom of heaven itself had been likened by the Great Teacher to a little leaven, and again to a grain of mustard seed.
“Coming down here, the words of the prophet came again and again to my mind: `And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they
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shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.' Perhaps this chosen people so honored of God were meant by the prophet in this passage; but I think the words have a wider meaning, and like the words which are sometimes (whether erroneously or not) ascribed to the Apostle Paul, apply to the Hebrew-Christian of to-day: `Ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.' The Hebrew-Christian Church is with us in this city. Thanks be to God that we see it planted to-day!”
Addressing Mr. Freshman the speaker said: “The wind, the tempest, the hurricane you have encountered. You have known troubled waters. Now you are rounding the point. And yet as you come out into the open sea there will be clouds and adverse winds ahead. You will encounter opposition. There will be sneering at your work, and well I know that there is deep indignation and scorn among those that listen to you. I cannot help reminding you of the Apostle's words in the 2d Epistle to the Corinthians, regarding the veil which Moses put over his face, `for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away.' `Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord the veil shall be taken away.' But the work will continue to meet with opposition. You have head tides to make head against. But your work is fixed for you. It has now position. It is entitled to and must have nourishment. It is not a challenge going forth. It is an open welcoming door to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. We have come to give you this informal greeting. O, that this place may be the dwelling-place of God manifest in the flesh! May His holy Spirit abide with you, and may you see more and more of the beauty of our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!”
Mr. Freshman, in acknowledgment of the sympathy expressed, said that he seldom made any mention of the opposition encountered from the Jews. The Jewish papers had made frequent attacks to which he had made no reply. “But in spite of all that,” added Mr. Freshman pleasantly, “we reach out toward them in a kind, Christian loving way, and only desire to be of benefit to them. It is true, as the work increases the burden increases, and sometimes, as Dr. Crosby once said to me, `Why, Brother Freshman, your faith seems to be going all down to your heels!' It is true these gentlemen and all on my Committee are very kind, and I am very thankful to them, yet no
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one is responsible, and I am often without a dollar in my pocket. Well, we cry to God. We tell the Lord: and sometimes we tell the Lord's people how matters are with us.” Mr. Freshman gave some interesting particulars of the work, and after a selection from the choir the benediction was pronounced.
EVENING SERVICE.
The Rev. Howard Crosby, D.D., LL.D., was announced to preach, but suffering from a severe cold, he was prevented from delivering the sermon which he told Mr. Freshman he had especially prepared.
The Rev. R. M. Somerville, of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, offered a very fervent prayer, and the Rev. S. M. Hamilton, D.D., of the Scotch Presbyterian Church, preached from Acts ix. 2, selecting the words: “The Way.” The Doctor preached a sermon of marked originality and power. He showed, first, that the Gospel of Christ is the only way from ignorance to the knowledge of God. Second, it is the only way from guilt and sin to pardon and holiness. And, third, the only way from earth to heaven.
Bishop Reinke, of the Moravian Church, made congratulatory remarks on the auspicious opening of this church, and thought it a shame that there had not been a Hebrew-Christian Church in New York City before this date. He hoped this would help many Hebrews to find their way to a knowledge that the Messiah, whom their own prophets predicted, had indeed come.
MONDAY EVENING.
The exercises of this evening were all held in the German language. Able and interesting addresses were delivered by the Revs. C. Reuss, of the Methodist Church; W. H. Rice, of the Moravian Church; J. H. Oerter, D.D., of the Reformed Church; and Prof. Emanuel Casanovicz, one of our Hebrew-Christian brethren.
TUESDAY EVENING.
The Rev. L. L. Taylor made the opening address and dwelt upon the need of such a church in that particular locality.
The Rev. D. W. Couch said he was a Canadian by birth, had known Mr. Freshman and would rejoice to aid him in this work. If
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even ten thousand friends felt as the speaker did, and from their homes in different parts of the land would forward each one dollar, there would be $10,000 of the financial burden lifted from Brother Freshman.
The Rev. G. W. Huntington, rector of one of the Reformed Episcopal Churches in Brooklyn, said he should do all he could to co-operate with so worthy an enterprise.
WEDNESDAY EVENING.
This evening was devoted to the Temperance cause, the meeting being held under the auspices of the “Manhattan Temperance Association,” J. B. Gibbs, President, who, with several other gentlemen, addressed the audience.
THURSDAY EVENING.
The Rev. Charles F. Deems, D.D., LL.D., of the Church of the Strangers, delivered an eloquent address.
He paid a high tribute to a nationality so powerful, so full of brains, so persistent and eminent in the front rank of all professions (notwithstanding persecution and prejudice) as the Jewish nationality. “Then,” he continued, 'I cannot see why the Jews can fail to be proud of Christianity, when they remember that men of Jewish blood are its accepted teachers.”
In closing, Dr. Deems said:
“Here is a church that seems planted for a special work. Beware how you treat it, beware how you neglect it, or oppress or distress it. I warn Israel after the flesh to beware how this church is treated! And a glance forward was taken to the time when among increasing Hebrew-Christian churches this one would be lost as a single star is lost among the constellations. Joy in heaven among the blood-washed throng who have the covenant was believed to be felt tonight that a Hebrew-Christian church is planted. Long may it live! And may the God of Abraham, and of Isaac and of Jacob, have spiritual children born into it every week, and if it be His will, every day.”
The Rev. George Alexander, D.D., pastor of the University Place Presbyterian Church, delivered a very interesting address.
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He said, “Those who love the Lord Jesus Christ may well testify of Him to His kinsmen after the flesh. To do so is only an expression of gratitude. Think of what has come to the world in art, music, jurisprudence and politics through the Jewish race!
“Another reason that the spiritual welfare of Israel is so important to us is, that we cannot hope for the fulfilment of the promise we most desire, until the promise concerning Israel is fulfilled. The signs of the times are exceedingly promising.
“I rejoice most heartily in the opening of this Hebrew-Christian Church. I believe God will bless it.”
The Rev. Dr. F. Bottome, of the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church, was the next speaker.
To him it was almost a matter of shame that this was the First Hebrew-Christian Church in New York. “We do so love to work at arm's length. Money could be collected in every church for a mission to the Jews in Syria, and yet here in New York there is a larger Jewish population than in Syria.”
The Rev. John Dooly, pastor of the Broome Street Tabernacle, made congratulatory remarks, and also the Rev. A. G. Ruliffson, of Bethany Institute.
FRIDAY EVENING.
The Rev. Wm. H. Vogler, of the Moravian Church, spoke hearty words of sympathy and encouragement.
The Rev. George F. Pentecost, D.D., who was expected, wrote that it would be impossible for him to be present.
His brother, the Rev. Hugh C. Pentecost, of this city, kindly consented to deliver an address.
Mr. Pentecost said, “I am quite accustomed to take my brother's place, but not to fill it.”
He considered the question, “Are the Jews worth saving?” and also, “Is this the proper time to make the effort, and what is the best method?”
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The address was an able one. Mr. Freshman said at its close he wished it could appear the next morning in all the city papers.
Two Presbyterian ministers from Canada, on a visit to New York, gave great interest to the meeting, the Rev. Mr. Pettigrew, and the Rev. Mr. Cameron of Toronto.
The Rev. F.H. Marling, pastor of the Fourteenth Street Presbyterian Church, said, “I met Mr. Freshman when he came here to undertake this work, and I must acknowledge, that in view of the difficulties to be encountered, I felt apprehensive as to success. But he has steadily persevered, and I do greatly admire the trustful, hearty, hopeful spirit in which he has steadfastly advanced to the present time.”
“The Debt that Christians owe to the Hebrews” was the subject of the interesting address which was made by Mr. Marling after the above introductory remarks.
SUNDAY AFTERNOON. (October 18th.)
The Rev. William Ormiston, D.D., LL.D., pastor of the Reformed Church, corner of Fifth Avenue and Twenty-ninth Street, preached a very instructive and beautiful discourse from Isaiah xliv. 2, 3, 4. “Thus saith the Lord that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water on him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground; I will pour my spirit upon thy seed and my blessing upon thy offspring; and they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.”
Dr. Ormiston had known Mr. Freshman almost from boyhood, and was a warm friend of Mr. Freshman's father, when both were ministers in the same city in Canada.
The Rev. S. H. Virgin, pastor of the Pilgrim Congregational Church, spoke eloquent congratulatory words.
Lewis H. Williams, Esq., the contractor, to whose good taste, skill, judgment and generosity the Hebrew-Christian Church is much indebted for the work of alteration and renovation, made a brief address, full of love to the Hebrews.
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SUNDAY EVENING.
In the evening, the Rev. Mr. Cameron, pastor of one of the Presbyterian churches in Toronto, preached a sermon of much power, from Matthew xxii. 42: “What think ye of Christ?”
PRESS EXTRACTS.
The next day the daily papers referred to our opening. The New York Herald, Tribune, World, Sun and Star, published articles, entitled, “A Hebrew-Christian Church Dedicated.” We make the following extract from the New York Times:
THE ONLY ONE IN AMERICA.
A HEBREW-CHRISTIAN CHURCH DEDICATED YESTERDAY.
AN EPOCH IN THE HISTORY OF RELIGION IN THIS COUNTRY — HOW THE CHURCH CAME INTO EXISTENCE.
On the northerly side of St. Mark's Place, a few doors from Third Avenue, is a three-story and basement brick structure. Across the front of the building, above the line of the first-story windows, extends a black board sign, on which, beneath certain Hebraic characters, are the words: “Hebrew-Christian Church.” The surmounting inscription translated reads: “For Mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.” Two handsome stained glass windows, one inscribed, “In memoriam of Rev. Charles Freshman, D.D.,” and the other emblazoning the name of its donor, ornament the front of the first floor of the building.
Yesterday the front door of the building was open all day, and two young men stood in the neatly carpeted hallway and welcomed the many persons who climbed the granite steps. The visitors were attendants upon the dedicatory exercises of the First Hebrew Christian Church of America. They were ushered into a room of considerable dimensions at the left of the entrance and were seated in two rows of pews. On a platform were a reading desk, an organ, and a few high-backed upholstered chairs. The pews are plainly constructed of ash. The apartment is finished in light coloring to correspond with that of the pews, is prettily carpeted, and is bright and cheerful in appearance. Yesterday's ceremonies mark an epoch in the religious life of New York, and for that matter of America.
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Although several missions for the conversion of Hebrews to the Christian faith have been established in the United States and Canada, there has never, until now, been a regularly established house of worship for Jewish proselytes on this side of the Atlantic.
The new church is the result of years of effort by the Rev. Jacob Freshman, and is the direct outgrowth of the Jewish mission which he established in this city about four years ago. For a long time he has been endeavoring to establish a regular church where Hebrew-Christians might worship, and he has finally, through the help of various denominations of the Christian faith, been successful in his undertaking. The building on St. Mark's Place was purchased for $20,000 of which amount $5,000 has been paid down, and at an expense of $3,000 or $4,000 more it has been transformed to its present uses. Besides the hall of worship in the first story, prayer, reading, and Sunday-school rooms have been introduced in the basement of the structure, and the Pastor and his family will live in the apartments over the church proper.
Mr. Freshman is a son of the late Rev. Charles Freshman, D.D., a Jewish Rabbi, who embraced Christianity, and has been a regularly ordained Christian minister for several years. He says that his church will be non-sectarian in character and open to all Christian believers. He is very enthusiastic and expects pronounced results from his present undertaking. He mentions, with an evident belief in the prophetic significance of the fact, the circumstance that in the building now occupied by his church lived, many years ago, Dr. Somers, a then well-known Baptist clergyman, who baptized the first Israelitish convert to Christianity in New York.
The dedicatory services proper of the Hebrew-Christian Church were held yesterday forenoon. There was a good attendance, and among those present were members of several of the uptown Christian congregations.
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From the Daily Telegraph:
TO THE TRIUNE JEHOVAH. NEW HOUSE OF WORSHIP THROWN OPEN FOR CHRISTIANIZED JEWS.
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This is a jubilee week to the little band of Christianized Jews of which Rev. Jacob Freshman is the pastor. Yesterday they dedicated “to the worship of the triune Jehovah” the handsome four-story brick building located at No. 17 St. Mark's Place, and which, by a little alteration, has been made into most convenient headquarters for aggressive work among the 80,000 Hebrews residing in this city. Two smiling youths, of a pronounced Jewish cast of countenance, stood at the entrance, and proved the politest of ushers. The audience room is on the first floor. It is lighted by four large stained glass windows. The seating capacity is about a hundred and fifty, and it was well filled, a large proportion of those present being Jews.
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Other Extracts:
Mr. Freshman also addressed the congregation, reviewing the history of his work. He made earnest appeals to the Christian community to assist him in the undertaking of lifting the church debt, and declared that he had experienced great difficulties and been confronted with deep prejudice from people of his race in his endeavors to establish a Christian house of worship for Hebrews.
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All present joined in singing “All hail the power of Jesus' name,” and then Mr. Freshman rose. He is a little, wiry, enthusiastic Hungarian, forty-one years of age, the son of a rabbi, and a member of the Montreal Conference of the Methodist Church. He said: “I have been pastor of larger churches than this, but my heart has gone out toward my own people, and here I stand, almost single-handed, trusting God. As a result of my work, three or four Hebrew young men have already been put into Christian theological seminaries, and are employed in preaching to our brethren. This is a work of faith. The church is evangelical but undenominational. We have no subscription list, but money has kept coming in from those who are interested in us.”
The church originated in a mission at 25 Seventh Street. Every Saturday, at 3 P.M., Mr. Freshman preaches in German and English at another mission at 73 Allen Street. These meetings are well attended, but are sometimes a little boisterous from the angry interruptions of the orthodox Jews present. The Hebrew-Christian is a paper in the interest of this movement.
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WHAT WE BELIEVE.
We believe, first and foremost, that, according to the prophecies of the Old Testament, the Messiah has come in the person of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: that “This is the Stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER: FOR THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED.” Acts iv. 11-12. And again, “If ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.” St. John viii. 24.
We accept the entire Bible as the word of God.
The Old Testament, consisting of those books commonly received as canonical by the Evangelical Christian Church, we believe to be divine; and we receive it now, as it was given through Moses and the prophets to our fathers, who themselves always believed and openly declared it to be divine.
The New Testament we believe to be equally of divine origin. The words of Jeremiah have come to pass: “Behold the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah.” Jer. xxxi. 31.
We are undenominational; but are bound by the fellowship of Christ to all who love our Lord. We have formulated no “creed” of our own, but we accept as a concise statement of our belief, the venerable “Apostle's Creed:”
“I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He went to the place of departed spirits; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into Heaven and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. “I believe in the Holy Ghost; the Holy Church of God, the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.”
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Any one desiring to unite with us is asked the following questions: 1st. Have you truly and earnestly repented of your sins? 2d. Do you believe in our Lord Jesus Christ as your present and sufficient Saviour. 3d. Are you in love and charity with all men? And especially do you love the society of Christian people? 4th. Will you endeavor by God's help, to lead a life of holy self-denial and Christian effort for the salvation of others? 5th. Have you been baptized?
Baptism is administered according to the mode which satisfies the conscience of the candidate, and is administered whenever a convert desires to make a profession of faith.
The Lord's Supper (our Christian Passover) is celebrated once every quarter, on the second Sunday of the following months, namely: November, February, May and August.
The congregation accompanies the pastor in the Lord's Prayer at the conclusion of the first prayer in each service.
GIFTS.
Four stained glass windows. Lewis H. Williams, Esq.
Organ. Col. Estey, of the Estey Organ Company, Brattleboro, Vt.
We are indebted to Messrs. Saxe & Robertson, 831 Broadway, of the New York office of the Estey Organ Company, for receiving and placing the organ in our Church at their own expense.
Carpet. Mr. Walter O. Jones (Owen Jones' Sons, cor. 19th St. and Eighth Avenue).
Two gas reflectors. Rev. John Dooly, Pastor of Broome Street Tabernacle.
100 Hymn Books, entitled Hymns For All Christians. The Church of the Strangers. The Rev. Dr. Deems, pastor.
Bibles for every pew. New York Bible Society.
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The following beautiful gifts were presented while our services were still being held in Cooper Union. It gives us pleasure to make mention of them:
A silver communion service. Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Van De Mark.
A Pulpit Bible. Mrs. Bertha Metzler, a Hebrew-Christian lady, member of our own Church.
The following articles have been given to be sold for the benefit of the Building Fund:
A beautiful gold ring, with three diamonds. From Mr. George N. Mitchell and wife.
A hand-painted china tete-a-tete set. Mrs. Cramer, sister of the late General Grant.
A silk quilt. From Mrs. Buttner, a friend who has lived in Jerusalem.
In addition to the above gifts for the Church, articles have been kindly contributed toward the furnishing of the house, by the following friends of the work.
The Rev. F. H. Marling, Pastor of the Fourteenth Street Presbyterian Church; Mrs. R. E. Rainsford; the Misses Dean and William E. King, carpet store, 333 Bowery.
At some of the opening services, we were kindly assisted by the choirs of the following-named churches:
The Church of the Covenant, Presbyterian.
The Seventh Street Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Church of the Strangers.
LETTERS OF REGRET AND CONGRATULATION. From the Rev. D. Stuart Dodge:
BOSTON, Oct. 3, 1885.
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MY DEAR MR. FRESHMAN: — Your kind note ought to have been answered some days ago, but we have been away. Nor do I expect to be in the city on the date you mention. In fact, we may not return finally until some time in November. I am delighted to hear that the new building is so nearly completed. It is a reward for your faith and toil. May every meeting there be blessed by some special manifestation of the Holy Spirit's presence!
With sincere regards, believe me Very truly, etc., D. STUART DODGE.
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From the Rev. R. S. MacArthur, D.D., Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church: NEW YORK, Oct. 15, 1885.
DEAR BROTHER FRESHMAN: — Your letter has been before me for a few days. Pressure of duty has prevented an earlier reply. Accept my hearty congratulations on the success of your work.
I put a little paragraph in the Chicago Standard, of which paper I am the regular correspondent, regarding your work.
It is simply impossible for me to give an evening, or to preach on Sunday. I am preaching a regular course of sermons, both morning and evening, and cannot be absent from my own pulpit, just now.
I have great pleasure in your prosperity, and hope at some other time to be able to render you some service.
Yours very truly, R.S. MAC ARTHUR.
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From Dr. Chambers, Pastor of Middle Reformed Church:
NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 1885.
THE REV. J. FRESHMAN, DEAR BRO.: — I am obliged for your note, but shall be unable to accept your invitation for the evening of
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the 13th. Trust that the Lord will be with you, and the occasion prove to be one of great interest and profit. Yours truly, T. W. CHAMBERS.
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From the Rev. H. M. Gallaher, Pastor of Baptist Tabernacle:
OCTOBER 1, '85.
MY DEAR SIR: — It will be impossible to be with you at the opening of your new Church on Tuesday, Oct. 13th, as I am already engaged. I regret this, for it would please me to give such service as I can render to the work you are engaged in. If at any time in the future any words of mine may be of use to you I shall cheerfully give them. Yours, etc., H. M. GALLAHER.
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From the Rev. Prof. Magath, a Hebrew-Christian:
EMORY COLLEGE, Oxford, Ga., Oct. 8, '85.
DEAR BRO. FRESHMAN: — The extra number of the Hebrew-Christian, announcing the dedication of the Hebrew-Christian Church, filled my heart with gratitude to the God of our Fathers and to Jesus, our Lord and elder Brother. How I wish I could be with you during the days of dedication, to mingle my voice with yours in prayer and thanksgiving! I assure you, however, that though absent in the body, I shall be present with you in the spirit, especially on the first Lord's day, when the doors of the new church shall be opened to praise the Lord of Hosts through Jesus the Messiah. May it be a place for the spiritual birth of many of the children of Israel, and may Jehovah, who is graciously visiting His own chosen people, ever be with you in your work for Him, and may many friends be raised to pay the remaining debt on the building; so that the first Hebrew-Christian Church in America may be a free gift of the American people to Him, who through the blood of His Son, who according to the flesh was of the seed of Abraham, has redeemed them from the law and sin and made them heirs of the kingdom of heaven.
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With Christian love to you and sister Freshman, and with prayers for your success, I remain, my dear brother,
Sincerely and fraternally yours, JULIUS MAGATH.
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A letter of regret was also received from the Rev. Wm. M. Taylor, D.D., pastor of the Broadway Tabernacle (Congregational).
OFFERINGS.
Free-will Offerings for “THE HEBREW-CHRISTIAN WORK,” may be sent to Rev. Jacob Freshman, 17 St. Mark's Place, New York, or to A.D.F. Randolph, Esq., 900 Broadway, New York.
All Offerings should be accompanied by a definite statement as to the donor's intention; and with the donor's address, not for publication, but that the receipt may be acknowledged.
It would prevent awkward mistakes if contributors would kindly say whether we are to address them as Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Rev.
OBJECTS.
1. The General Mission Work. For contributions to the above, a printed and numbered receipt is sent to the donor.
All amounts received for this object, are published in our paper, The Hebrew-Christian.
We do not receive a salary, but are dependent upon the free-will offerings of the Lord's people. These offerings must be distinctly stated as for personal use, otherwise they will invariably be put into the General Fund. All offerings for
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personal use are acknowledged by a private note of thanks to the donor.
Hebrew-Christian Directory. ——————————
HEBREW-CHRISTIAN CHURCH. No. 17 ST. MARK'S PLACE, East 8th Street, Near Third Avenue.
PASTOR, REV. JACOB FRESHMAN, Son of a Jewish Rabbi.
SERVICES IN ENGLISH. Preaching every Sunday - - - - - - - - - 7:30 P.M. Sunday School - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9:00 A.M. Prayer Meeting, Friday - - - - - - - - - - -7:45 P.M.
SEATS FREE. A cordial welcome to all. Israelites specially invited.
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JEWISH MISSION HALL 73 ALLEN STREET, COR. GRAND. Preaching to Jews in German and English every Saturday, at 3 P.M.
THE READING ROOM is open every Tuesday and Thursday, from 7 to 9 P.M. All are welcome.
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