Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly volume 15.djvu/97



FIRST PRESBYTERIANISM ON PACIFIC COAST 89

May 14, 1843, nine persons (Indians) were admitted to "the First Presbyterian Church in Oregon" * * * 'The Lord be thanked. To him be all the praise for these trophies of his victorious grace. Truly this is a glorious day for the powers of light. May these lambs be kept from every tempta- tion and every sin and be nurtured up by the rich grace of God and become perfect men and women in Christ Jesus. The Lord's Supper was administered. Rev. Mr. Hines, of the Methodist Mission, was present and assisted the pastor. Pres- ent also, Rev. Mr. Perkins, of the Methodist Mission; also Elijah White, M.D., sub-agent of Indian A. W. R. M., and Mr. Little John and wife and Mrs. Spalding."

June 23, 1844, Sabbath. Ten persons (Indians) "were ad- mitted to the First Presbyterian Church in Oregon," making

twenty-two native members in good and regular standing.

"Dr. Whitman visited Compo in Summer of 47. He ap- pears well, has withstood the efforts of the Catholics to draw him back again, refused to give up his Bible to the priest who

wished to burn it."



Because of Indian troubles the church was without a pastor for several years.

Nov. 12, 1871. A total of forty-five, mostly Indians, were admitted to the church and baptized by the pastor, H. H. Spald- ing. Among this number was Lawyer, head chief of the Nez Perces, and his son, Archie. * * * "This is a glorious day, bless the Lord, oh my soul! That I am permitted to return after so long expulsion in my old age but once to witness the wonderful work of God upon the hearts of this people."

"Chief Lawyer, the noblest man in the Nez Perce tribe, died Jan. 6, 1876. He was an old man and ripe for glory."

A total of ninety-eight were added to the church in Novem- ber, 1871 ; all of whom were Indians but one.

Many Indian converts were added to the church during the years 1872 and 1873.