Page:History of Barrington, Rhode Island (Bicknell).djvu/292

 232 THE HISTORY OF BARRINGTON. The Rev. Luther Wright succeeded Mr. Watson, and was installed Jan. 29, 18 17. He was an experienced minister of the Gospel, and a man of fervent piety, zealous in work, and of a progressive, orthodox faith. "The refreshing from the Lord," which blessed so many of the New England churches between 1816-20, came to the Barrington pastor and people, and as a result over ninety persons were added to the Church, the larger part in the year 1820. The same period witnessed a new interest taken in instructing the youth in the teach- ings and doctrines of the Bible. American Sunday Schools really were born at this time, although in some parts of the country Bible teaching for the young had been entered upon by the Churches prior to this time. Mr. Wright was among the first to recognize the value and importance of this new movement. In 181 7 the General Association of Massachu- setts recommended the establishment of schools for the pious education of children and youth. In the same year we find the following important Church records, the result of Mr. Wright's deep interest in all good plans to benefit the Church and society : Barrington, May 22, 18 17, "The brethren and sisters of the Church met at the meet- ing-house, agreeably to the appointment by the pastor. The meeting was opened with prayer. The articles of Christian Faith and Covenant were read, explained and commented upon. The importance of the religious education of the ris- ing generation was then urged. The pastor proposed and requested that the Church co-operate with him in catechising the children and youth." "Voted, unanimously, that Dea. Kent Brown, and brethren Jabez Heath and Geo. Gladding be a Committee to consult with the pastor respecting a plan for the catachetical instruc- tion of the children and youth in this place, and report at their next prayer meeting. The pastor then recommended to observe the monthly concert of prayer, which was agreed to by the Church, and was observed accordingly, commencing the first Monday in June 2, 1817."