A Historical Sketch of the Reformed Presbyterian Church General Synod

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE 3 recruits arrived in due time from Scotland and Ireland, and soon tlie Reformed Presbyterian Church was rapidly and permanently growing in the United States of America. Although there was unity in doctrine and mode of worship, there was a lack of harmony on the matters of civil government, and due to the fact that the United States1 Constitution recog­ nized no higher authority than the will of the people, discord was produced. This defect in the Constitution, led to much contention; and, as trouble with the British government was brewing, it became necessary for every sect to declare their allegiance to the United States^ A committee was duly appointed to draw up a form of oath of allegiance that would be suitable to the church and to the government. Revs. Gibson, Wylie and McLeod, were ap­ pointed a committee to inquire what security the members of this church can give to the constituted authorities of the United States, consistent with their avowed principles, that they are not to be considered, whether aliens or citizens, in the charac­ ter 01 enemies; and report thereon. After due deliberation they were not only prepared to report to the people of the church, but to the government, the follow- oath of allegiance: (Dr. McLeod drew up the oath). I, A B, do solemnly declare, in the name of the Most High God, the searcher of hearts, that I abjure all foreign allegiance \. hat soever, and hold that these States and the United States a.e, and ought to be. sovereign, and independent of all other na­ tions and governments; and that I will promote the best inter­ ests of this empire, maintain its independence, preserve its peace, and support the integrity of the Union to the best of my power.” Note here, that the Covenanters not only swore to support the United States, but also the several States. To make the position then taken by the Covenanters clear to the present gen­ eral.on , we can do no better than quote Dr. McMIaster, who was Synod’s first Moderator. Before quoting the Doctor’s statement, allow me to say, that it was the contention over the merits of this oath that led to the disruption of the denomination in 1833, and hence, two denominations of Reformed Presbyterians up to the present day; namely, the General Synod and the Synod. As to the merits of e.ther party or their beliefs we give each side the credit of conscientiously following their own honest convic-