USA > New York > Ecclesiastical records, state of New York, Volume II > Part 6
Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20 | Part 21 | Part 22 | Part 23 | Part 24 | Part 25 | Part 26 | Part 27 | Part 28 | Part 29 | Part 30 | Part 31 | Part 32 | Part 33 | Part 34 | Part 35 | Part 36 | Part 37 | Part 38 | Part 39 | Part 40 | Part 41 | Part 42 | Part 43 | Part 44 | Part 45 | Part 46 | Part 47 | Part 48 | Part 49 | Part 50 | Part 51 | Part 52 | Part 53 | Part 54 | Part 55 | Part 56 | Part 57 | Part 58 | Part 59 | Part 60 | Part 61 | Part 62 | Part 63 | Part 64 | Part 65
780
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
1681
guilders. Neither will this lessen the salary of the old minister, who has one hundred and twenty five beavers. We hope, although there is not as great a number of candidates as formerly, that this church and others of our New Netherland churches may be pro- vided with orthodox, eloquent and upright men, such as the con- gregations desire. We add our request to theirs, and pray your Reverences that, pursuant to your accustomed fatherly care, al- ready so often shown to the Dutch congregations in this country, you will please to consider what we have again submitted in this regard, that the believing and unanimous expectations of our souls may soon be joyfully realized. We leave the rest to your Christian love and prudence, while we pray God Almighty to bless your per- sons and your families, your services and your councils with his gracious favor, to the building up of his church and the salvation of all you and yours. Let it so be. Wherewith I remain, Rev- erend and Prudent Gentlemen,
Your Reverences humble and obedient servant, Casparus van Zuuren, Minister.
Midwoud, 25th of June, O. S. 1681.
Correspondence from America.
The Church of New York to the Classis of Amsterdam, June 29, 1681. Extract in Mints. Synod North Holland, 1682, Art. 11.
Very Reverend, Learned and Pious Gentlemen :-
The enclosure is a copy of our last letters (Feb. 25, 1681), one sent by way of Maryland, the other by way of Boston, to which we refer. We only add our earnest prayer, that, in case the de- sired call has not been made before the receipt of this letter, that it be not delayed any longer, and that the candidate may hasten on his way. We have no more to say at present, except, with our
781
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
1681
salutations, to commend your Reverences to the care of the Al- mighty. We remain,
Very Reverend Gentlemen, Your Reverences humble servants, the Elders and Deacons of the Re- formed Christian Church at New York. In their name, Pieter Jacobsen Marius, Elder.
New York, 29th of June, Anno 1681.
Acts of Classis of Amsterdam.
Request of the People of New York. Death of Nieuwenhuysen ; Desire for Selyns to return. (Title in English.)
1681, July 21st.
A certain letter was read, from New Netherland, from the church in New York, dated Feb. 25, 1681, stating that Rev. Wil- liam Nieuwenhuysen, late minister there, had fallen asleep in the Lord. They requested another good minister in his place, and would very gladly see that the Rev. Domine Henricus Selyns, at present minister at Waverveen, might be sent to them, if he could be induced thereunto. Whereupon the Rev. Classis resolved to refer the said matter to Rev. Deputati ad res Maritimas to con- fer more particularly with Rev. Selyns, to offer him this call, and to make preparations to discuss the entire subject more fully at the next Classis. vii. 308; xix. 203.
ACTS OF THE DEPUTIES. Letter from New York. 1681, July 23rd.
Stood within Rev. Henricus Selyns, Mr. Gillis van Hoornbeecq and Mr. Cornelius van Ruyven. They announced the decease of Rev. Nieuwenhuysen minister at New York, as well as the re-
782
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
1681
quest of the said congregation to be provided anew with another capable minister in the place of the one deceased. For this pur- pose they hand in a letter from the said church. xxi. 228.
SYNOD OF NORTH HOLLAND, AT HAARLEM.
1681, Aug. 7 et seq.
Art. 11. Extracts from the letters from New Netherland.
Extracts from a letter from Rev. Casparus van Suren (Zuuren), written at Midwout on Long Island, in America, December 10, 1680.
He tells of the effect which the letters of the Deputati had had upon him; that he had intended to return to Patria, on account of the well-known unpleasantnesses in his church; but that he had now changed his mind on account of their letter.
He wishes that his congregation had likewise given due heed to the advice of Rev. Deputati; but he hopes that this business will arrange itself also in its due time; for the congregation is keeping its promises, on the strength of which he was called, in a better manner; it has also made some new promises to him in reference to the time which has already elapsed. He shows the inconveniences attending the work in the place where he is, by several instances, and wishes that the love between him and his people, might be strengthened. He thanks the Deputati for the advice given, and ends with salutations.
Extract from a letter written in the name of the ministers of the Reformed Dutch Church in New Netherland; written at New York, but without date. Signed by the Revs. Nieuwenhuysen and Van Zuren. (1680 ?)
They show how agreeable it was, to learn of the pleasure which the Rev. Classis took, in their appointment of Rev. Tesschen- maker as minister on the South River, (New Amstel, Delaware.)
783
1680
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
They thank the Rev. Classis for their good disposition towards the churches of New Netherland, and express their desire to continue their correspondence with us. They speak of the good order maintained by them in their ecclesiastical government and worship, being the same as that used in the Fatherland; yet they add, that on account of the English who are now in power there, and whose Church-Order differs very greatly from ours, they must temporarily make some alterations in minor matters; neverthe- less only in such wise, that when the reason, which compels them to do so, has been removed, they can again proceed on the old foot- ing. They indicate in what manner the ministers in that land keep up intercourse with each other, namely by letters; inasmuch as, on account of the great distances between the different locali- ties, meetings from month to month are impossible. They tell of the state of the churches, the increase and number of members, being now about fifteen hundred; although the places of residence of the Christians are often at the distance of several hours (three miles an hour) from the place of service. They tell how the churches, which have no ministers, get along with readers; how they desire the aid of the civil power for the support of their churches, but for which they see little chance under their present (English) government; how they desire of God that they may only keep what they have. They conclude with salutations.
Extract from a letter from the ministers and elders of the Dutch Church on Long Island. (Dec. 10, 1680.)
They make known that the letter of the Rev. Deputati has had the effect of settling amicably the well known unpleasantnesses ; they indicate what was the cause of their mutual differences; they thank the brethren for their trouble, and request continuance of their good care over them; they give an account of the state of their congregation, of the number of their members, and in con- sequence, of the necessity for the labors of another minister in
784
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
1680
this church. They declare their disposition towards a good cor- respondence with the Rev. Classis, and conclude with salutations.
Extract from a letter written in the name of the church of Esopus, in New York, November 22, 1680, signed by John (William ?) Nieuwenhuysen, Casp. van Zuren, Wessel ten Broek, John Mat- thysen, Wilhelmus de Myer, John de Hoge.
They make known the death of their minister, Rev. Lawrence van Gaasbeek, and request that another minister may be sent to them. They mention the number of their members, and the in- crease of their congregation, and make known what terms the minister sent thither shall enjoy; whereof an instrument, from the delegates of that congregation, was enclosed. They make men- tion of their petition to the Governor (Andros) ; also the apostille to their petition, both sent to us; but leaves to the judgment of the Classis, what is said therein about English preachers. They request that the minister may be sent to them with the same skip- per who brought over the letter, with whom they have arranged about the passage. They conclude with salutations.
Was read a letter from the Commissioners of Schenectady, in New Netherland, addressed to John Henry van Balen and Abel de Wolff, and dated December 31, (1680), and signed by four of their number and by the secretary. In this they ask that the Classis of Amsterdam will see to it that their church be provided with a minister, and, if possible, before the winter; that they will give the minister a salary of the value of one hundred beavers, in wheat, and a free dwelling. They state why they did not themselves write to Rev. Classis, and conclude with salutations.
Were sent this year as ministers to the Indies and to New Netherland :
To Esopus, in New Netherland: Rev. John Weeksteen, (old minister) ? and Master of the Latin School.
785 1681
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
Art. 28. The Labadists and Coelman.
Ad Art. 27. Speaking of the Labadists and particularly Coel- man: It appears from several reports that these are gradually losing ground in our home churches. Coelman, indeed, shows himself here and there, but with very little following. The Classes agree to continue to be watchful against him. Only the Correspondents of Gelderland have (reported ?) asked that Coel- man had preached at Bommel. Against his efforts, a resolution was passed in South Holland; and also the Deputati ad corre- spondentias, together with the corresponding Synod, were ex- horted to be on the watch against his preaching.
Acts of Classis of Amsterdam.
New York, 1681, Sept. 1st.
Rev. Deputati ad eccles. extranas, make known to the Rev. As- sembly that they had conferred with Reverend Domine Selyns touching the vacant church of New York; that they had offered him the call to the church there, in accordance with the inclination and desire of that church, and the resolution of the Rev. Classis ; and that he had been pleased to take this offered call into consid- eration, as the importance thereof requires, but that he had not yet declared his intentions regarding it. Whereupon, Rev. Selyns, who was present at the session, was heard, and his well grounded objections understood. Besides, no further word had come over from New Netherland, and from the vacant church there. The Rev. Assembly therefore resolved to leave the case in statu for the present, and postponed further consideration of it to the next session. vii. 310; xix. 203.
New York, 1681, Sept. 2nd.
Mr. Cornelius van Ruyven made known to this session, that up to date, no further word had come from New York, although news is now expected. He presented for our consideration whether it would not be advisable to postpone the matter of the call for
50
786
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
1681
the present. This, for weighty reasons, the session approved. He agreed, as soon as he receives any word, to inform the session thereof. xxi. 229.
Correspondence from America.
The Church of Kings County, Long Island, to the Classis of Amsterdam, Sept. 15, (O. S.) 1681.
Very Reverend, Prudent, and Very Learned Gentlemen and Col- leagues in Jesus Christ: The Deputies of the Rev. Classis of Amsterdam for the Trans-Atlantic Churches: -
We have learned with satisfaction and pleasure, that our letter of the 10th of December of last year was received and favorably considered by your Rev. Assembly. We hope, with your Rever- ences, that the same favor will be shown to it by the Rev. Classis. Since our last letter, nothing unusual has happened here in our congregation of Long Island, except what occurred with the de- posed reader, of which the minister spoke in a preceding letter, written in June. It must be added that since that time this slan- derous fellow has broken the agreement made with him about his scoldings, and has incurred a penalty of fifty pounds sterling; that our Lieutenant-Governor has also had him imprisoned for his overbearing behavior. From this he was released after a few days under a bond of fifty pounds more for good behavior. I can only report in my next what may take place hereafter - whether he will proceed against us before the Judge.
Everything else is in passable condition. The number of mem- bers, the regular attendants on God's word, and the love for the minister, are all of such a character that we have reason to thank the Almighty for his favor. There are however also some im- proprieties among us as well as elsewhere, which we must try to correct by the Word, and by strict supervision and example; for the Gospel is a fish net, which catches both good and bad. On account of the vacancy at New York, caused by the untimely
787 1681
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
death of Domine van Nieuwenhuysen, which undoubtedly your Reverences have been already informed of, our preacher is bur- dened with the service of that congregation, besides that of the others on Staten Island and at Bergen. We trust that the supply- ing of that place, (New York) will be so much taken to heart by your Reverences and by the Classis, that our hopes for said congregation may be realized before winter. We expect to re- ceive on that occasion, what your Reverences have further to reply to our letters. Meanwhile we heartily thank you for the care which you have so far bestowed upon our church, and she requests that you will please to continue in your favorable dis- position towards us. Relying thereon and with our dutiful re- spects, asking God's blessing on your Reverences, your services, deliberations, families, etc., we remain, Reverend Gentlemen,
Your Reverences obliged, obedient and humble servants, friends and brothers, The members of the Consistory in the Congregation on Long Island. In their name, and by their order, Casparus van Zuuren, Midwoud, 15th of Sept. O. S. 1681. Minister there.
Acts of Classis of Amsterdam.
1681, Oct. 6th.
Inasmuch as no further information up to the present had been received from New Netherland regarding the vacant church in New York, the subject was left in statu, and the further treat- ment again postponed. vii. 312; xix. 203.
788
1681
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
Correspondence from America.
The Commissioners of Schenectady to the Classis of Amsterdam, October 21, 1681. To the Reverend Domines Segers van Son, Rudolph Rulius, etc., Deputati ad res etc., belonging to the Classis of Amsterdam:
Schaenhechtade, 21st Oct. 1681.
Reverend Gentlemen of the Classis of Amsterdam : -
The letter of your Reverences, dated the 2nd of June, this year (1681), duly reached us this summer and we thereby learned of your pious care for us, and your further advice that we should serve God in the best possible manner. We thank you for your care and above all for your advice as to our duty in reference to the importance of securing a minister. We have always had a reader (voorleser) so that our village has never been entirely des- titute of the exercises of Christian instruction.
We have also learned, that our letters came to your hands some- what late, but that was not our fault, as the Governor-General detained them for about a year.
But this has all passed by now, and the letters have been re- addressed to your Reverences. We request further that this mat- ter (of securing us a minister) would be more fully discussed and taken to heart by you according to your promises. On the other hand, we have given orders to Mr. Abel de Wolf, a merchant in Amsterdam, to furnish all necessary funds. Closing herewith, we commend your Reverences to the gracious protection of God Almighty, and remain,
Your Reverences Affectionate and willing friends, The Commissioners of Schaenhechtade,
Jan van Eps, Sander Glen, Reyer Jacobse, By their order, Ludovicus Cobes, Sec.
789
1681
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
Correspondence from America.
Rev. Johannes Weecksteen to the Classis of Amsterdam, Oct. 27, (N. S. Nov. 7), 1681. To the Reverend, Pious, Very Learned and Prudent Gentlemen, Domine Zegerus van Son, Domine Rudolphus Rulaeus, Domine N. Penkovius, V. D. M.,. at Amsterdam.
Reverend Brethren in Christ Jesus: -
Your special favor and friendship, shown to us in the call to the ministerial office in these parts, has put us under such obliga- tion to you, that only the grossest ingratitude could make us neglect the first opportunity, to inform you of our arrival, and in very good health. We were received here in such a manner that nothing at all was wanting. Imagine, if you can, the most re- markable friendship which is shown to us daily by our beloved congregation. We find ourselves in a country, where everybody but the utterly discontented, can obtain his every desire - a land flowing with milk and honey. Here, everything that can be wished for in the Fatherland, can be obtained. We shall always consider ourselves obliged to you for your favor, and will prove our grati- tude by effectual acknowledgements. We commend your Rever- ences and your services to Almighty God. May he long keep you in health unto the extension of the kingdom of Jesus Christ with all its blessings. I remain,
Pious, Prudent and Wise Gentlemen, Brethren in Christ Jesus,
Your obliged brother, Johannes Weecksteen, Eccl. at the Esopus.
In America, Kingston, in the Esopus Anno 1681, 27 October, O. S. 7 November, N. S.
790
1681
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
Rev. Caspar van Zuuren to the Classis of Amsterdam, Oct. 30 (O. S.) 1681. To the Reverend, Pious, Very Learned, Pru- dent and Wise Gentlemen of the Classis of Amsterdam, at the hands of Rev. Domine Zegerus van Zon, Chairman of the Depu- ties for Maritime Affairs, and Faithful Servant of Jesus Christ in his congregation at Amsterdam.
From New Netherland by skipper Jacob Mauritz of the Ship "Bever ", which may God safely guide.
Reverend, Pious, Very Learned, Prudent Gentlemen and Fathers in Jesus Christ: -
Although I have already informed your Reverences of the con- dition of our churches in this province, by my former letters of June (25, 1681) and September (15), yet I cannot let the present opportunity pass. This is partly because the voyages of ships are uncertain, and it is, therefore, advisable to write the same things twice; and partly, because I want further to explain some special points, touched on before. They relate mainly to what has happened to me in connection with the removal of the school- master at Midwoud. He denied some things and perverted others. He also sought his own advantage in the ignorance of our elders at Midwoud. He picked up a quarrel with them and summoned us all before the civil Justices of the Peace.
Knowing the importance of the case as well as the character of this fellow, I quickly called a meeting of the Consistory of our villages, and laid this case before them, and left it in their hands. They first took testimony concerning his removal. They then deputed three men, of whom two were of their own number, to appear before the Court and to defend our side of the case, which had now become of general concern. They also resolved to re- quest some of the New York Consistory to come over and assist us. The day of the sessions having arrived, and the parties ap- pearing, some of our people fearing the partisanship of the judges,
791
1681
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
advised arbitration. This was agreed to, and the settlement was referred to the judgment of some prominent New Yorkers, who had come to defend our case. A settlement was arranged for, by a bond of fifty pounds sterling (from the schoolmaster). The terms of the decision were chiefly, that the schoolmaster's re- moval was justifiable. Some expressions, however, with some points of the decision, at first astonished me. I could not admit, that private members of another congregation had the right either to close our mouths or bind our hands, in censuring unruly mem- bers of our congregation. But soon after I learned from them, that they did not mean to interfere in these matters.
Finally my amazement was superseded by something new. This was that the late schoolmaster had again, on a certain occa- sion, begun his usual scoldings and behaved worse than ever. He now attacked certain other decent people, indeed all who had taken my part, calling them rogues. Certifications of these facts were procured, and occurrences were then reported first to the arbitrators, and by them to the Deputy Governor. They all de- cided that he had broken the bond and forfeited the above fine. He was summoned before the Governor, when, however, he was obstinate, denied everything, gave the lie, etc., in our presence. He was accordingly sent to prison. Here he remained about eight days, when a certain man from our villages, but not of our re- ligion, became security for his good behavior and appearance be- fore the Court, when wanted, to give reasons for all his scurrilous speeches, etc. I believe this last bond too, was under a penalty of fifty pounds, as I reported in my former letters. I have my fears as to how it will go on the day of trial, which is to be in the middle of December next. The case is not in danger so long as the proceedings are conducted lawfully, and sufficient zeal on our part is shown. But the judges are quite antagonistic to us; and the people who are of no religion, or of another religion, are to pass sentence upon ministerial censures, pronounced by us on one who is subject to us. Will the liberty of our church remain ?
792
ECCLESIASTICAL RECORDS
1681
I can well understand, that the case itself, which has no connection with English law, cannot serve, (be executed) before the forfeited sum has been paid by the transgressor. But the man accuses me of the rupture; because I have not allowed him to come to com- munion; and because I have submitted the stipulated peace to arbitrators and not maintained (my official position ?) That is his argument. He takes that to refer to the clerical peace, as stated above. It all depends on the interpretation of the judges. Three out of five of these he has on his side. It is his intention and his boast, that he will make me appear in person, to answer his accusations. Many people of our own and other villages se- cretly support him, while they show a friendly face to me. The majority are faint hearted as to exhibiting any zeal for maintain- ing their own liberty. It is especially dangerous for a pious man, who seeks to keep good his conscience, to have anything to do with a rogue, who has no conscience; with one who endeavors to injure another, any kind of lying tales being used in his defence. It is far easier to stain another's reputation, than to wipe away the stain, without leaving some trace of it.
Wherever I perform divine service, and during the vacancy I take charge also at New York, I am fairly well received, and acceptable to the people. As long as the Gospel goes along har- moniously with worldly interests, everybody seems to be a great friend. When, however, any troubles, persecutions or oppressions occur, then the very thoughts of the heart are revealed. This one openly takes the side of the enemy, while another wants to serve two masters. Very few remain faithful adherents of God and truth, giving up and hating what is contrary thereto. The same may be seen in this case of mine. We have some people of the first kind, (who take the side of the enemy), but they are very few. There are many of the second kind (who try to serve two masters) ; but of the third kind, (faithful adherents of God) the number is very small. The Spanish adherents were once the ruin
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
793 1681
of the Netherlands. Here it is the English Party (lit. the Angli- cized people) who destroy our New Netherland.
Meanwhile I have the burden and care of all these churches on my shoulders, until your Reverences send a minister for New York. We all long very much for him. I find myself therefore compelled, again to address your Rev. Body, and humbly to be seech you to be pleased as quickly as possible to provide a minis- ter for us, so that neither the liberty of our churches, nor the honor of the service may suffer injury. I expect in due time to furnish such testimonials of myself, my services and my manner of life, as will please and satisfy your Rev. Body and all pious people. These will fully explain the cause of the difficulties, and the truth of what I have reported concerning them in several let- ters. I repeat my request, that you would please to defend our interests against the evilly disposed, either by writing serious let- ters to the Consistories of those places interested in the quarrel, or by giving counsel where your Reverences may deem it proper ; or finally, by recalling me to the Fatherland and sending another in my place; for it seems, that so long as turbulent and factious people remain here, neither I myself nor the church can have rest. But I shall take care (not) to prescribe how you are to settle these matters: I know that it becomes me to receive orders from your Reverences. I esteem the wisdom and prudence of your Reverences so highly, that any suggestions from me are quite unnecessary. It is my humble request however, that I may per- form my duties with love and joy ; and if this is not possible here, as indeed, seems to be the case, that I may then perform them in the Fatherland. I hope you will consent to this, but how it is to be accomplished, I leave it to your discretion, and your affec- tion for us.
Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.