Page:History of Barrington, Rhode Island (Bicknell).djvu/301

 MINISTERS OF CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. 239 day the council met, and the services of installation were held the day after, December nth, 1851. December 2d, 1852 was observed as a day of fasting and prayer, on which occasion the revised "Articles of Faith and Covenant" were publicly and harmoniously recognized. In 1854 collectors of benevolent contributions were ap- pointed and a thorough system of collections was estab- lished. The collections from all sources for benevolent objects were $205.94. Early in 1855 an unfortunate difference arose between pastor and people, which interrupted the hitherto successful ministry of Mr. Hyde, and resulted in a mutual council and his dismissal, March 28, 1855. The council voted unani- mously that the " differences have been the result of differ- ences in temperament, and in the position from which the parties observed and judged, rather than any criminal, moral obliquity." Rev. Morris Day held special religious services from Jan. 24, 1856, to February 21st, resulting in the conversion of some fifty or more souls. During this religious interest Rev. Francis Horton, of West Cambridge, Mass., was invited to supply the pulpit. He began his labors in February, 1865. His call to the pas- torate, May 20, 1856, was accepted. He continued acting pastor until he died, March 19, 1872, beloved and mourned by all his people, after a remarkably successful ministry of 16 years. May 5, 1872, Revised Articles of Faith were unanimously adopted. The benevolent contributions steadily advanced. In 1870 they reached $922.30, and in 1872 $1,150.00. Rev. William House began his labors March 9, 1873. He was installed Oct. 22, 1874, and dismissed by council July 7. 1886. During his ministry the advantage of system in all departments of church activity was demonstrated. The benevolent contributions for 1885 rose to $1,304.25.