HERRING COLLECTION MINUTES OF THE NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH OF KINSTON, N.C. William Isler and Claire Worthington HERRING Collection A special thanks to Bill HERRING of Kinston, N.C., Lenoir Co. for contributing his parent's family records. On Nov. 21st, 1894. Rev A.L. STOUGH, pastor of the Kinston Baptist Church, Rev. J.W. ROSE, pastor of the Cove Baptist Church and Rev. R.D. CARROLL, pastor of the Antioch Baptist Church, met at New Hope Baptist Meeting house for the purpose of organizing a Missionary Baptist Church. Rev. J.W. ROSE preached a sermon appropriate to the occasion from 1st Timothy 3:14-15. The Council then organized by making J.W. ROSE Moderator, and R.D. CARROLL secretary. Rev. ROSE led in prayer for Divine guidance. Bro. STOUGH Then presented forty-one names of persons who had been dismissed, at their own request from the Kinston Baptist Church to go into the new organization. These names are Jesse JACKSON, Floyd LOFTIN, Samuel LOFTIN, Isaac LOFTIN, Waller D. LOFTIN, SW. A. CROOM, J.J. CROOM, Rudolph CROOM, W.G. BARRETT, Lee BARRETT, John W. SUTTON, Samuel SUTTON, W. T.? SUTTON, W.E. SUTTON, Robert ARNETT, James HAZZARD, C.W. BOONE, George B. WALLER, A.L. STOUGH, Eliza JACKSON, Kate M. JACKSON, Ann M. CROOM, Maud CROOM, Emma E. SUTTON, Nonie SUTTON, India P. SUTTON, Mary S. SUTTON, Olive TAYLOR, Alice WALLER, Sallie DAVIS, Mary ARNETT, Adelle LOFTIN, Edna LOFTIN, Eugenie ELLIS, Eliza BRYANT, Emma SANDERSON, Lula BARRETT, Daisy BRIGHT, M.C. STOUGH, Susan HILL, Lizzie HAYNES. (Several names scratched out) Then Bro. STOUGH read the following Church Covenant, to wit: Having been, as we trust brought by divine grace to embrace the Lord Jesus Christ and to give ourselves wholy to Him, we do now solemnly and joyfully covenant with each other to walk together in him, with Brotherly love, to His glory, as our common Lord. We do, therefore, in His strength, engage- That we will exercise a Christian care and watchfulness over each other and faithfully warn, exhort and admonish each other as occasion may require: That we will not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, but will uphold the public worship of God, and the ordinances of His house: That We will not omit close and family religion at home nor neglect the great duty of religiously training our children and those under our care, for the service of Christ, and the enjoyment of heaven. That, as we are the light of the world, and salt of the earth we will seek divine aid to enable us to deny ungodliness, and every worldly lust, and to walk circumspectly in the world, that we may win the souls of men. That we will cheerfully contribute of our property, according as God has prospored us for the maintenance of a faithful and evangelical ministry among us, for the support of the poor and to spread the Gospel over the earth: "That we will in all conditions, even till death, strive to live to the glory of Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. And may the God of Peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant make us perfect in every good work to do His will, working in us that which is well pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, To Whom the glory forever and ever. Amen" The persons named above subscribed to and unanimously adobted this covenant in full. The Article of Faith as found in "The New Directory for Baptist Churches" by HISCOX? Pages 543 to 562. To wit: Article of Faith I. The Scriptures We believe that the Holy Bible was written by amen divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction; that it has God for its author salvation for its end; and truth without any mixture of error for its matter. That it reveals the principles by which God will judge us; and therefore is and shall remain to the end of the world the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds and opinions should be tried. II. The True God We believe the Scriptures teach that there is one and only one living and true God, and infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of Heaven and Earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. III. The Fall of Man We believe the Scriptures teach that Man was created in holiness, under the law of his maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin without defense or excuse. IV. God's Purpose of Grace We believe the Scriptures teach that election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, sanctifies and saves sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man it comprehends all the means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy and unchangeable; that is utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God and active imitations of His free mercy: that it encourages the use of means in the highest degree; that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the Gospel; that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence. V. The Way of Salvation We believe the Scriptures teach that the salvation of sinners is holy of grace; through he mediatorial offices of the Son of God; who according to the will of the Father assigned our nature, yet without sin; honored the divine law by His personal obedience; and by His death made a full atonement for our sins; that having risen from the dead. He is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, He is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate and an all sufficient Savior. VI. Of Regeneration We believe the Scriptures teach that regeneration rot he new birth, is that change wrought in the soul by the Holy Spirit, by which a new nature and a spiritual life, not before possessed, are imparted, and the person becomes a new creation in Christ Jesus; a holy disposition is given to the mind the will subdued, the dominion of sin broken, and the affections changed from a love of sin and self, to a love of holiness and God; the change is instantaneous, effected solely by the power of God, in a manner incomprehensible to reason; the evidence of it is found in a changed disposition of mind, the fruits of righteousness and a newness of life. And without it salvation is impossible. VII. Of Repentance We believe the Scriptures teach that repentance is a personal act, prompted by the Spirit, and consists in a Godly sorrow for sin, as offensive to God and ruinous to the soul, that it is accompanied with great humiliation in view of one's sin and guilt, together with prayer for pardon, also by sincere hatred of sin, and a persistent turning away from and abandonment of, all hat is evil and unholy. Since none are sinless in this life, repentance needs to be often repeated. VIII. Of Faith We believe the Scriptures teach that faith, as an evangelical grace wrought by the Spirit is the medium through which Christ is received by the soul as its sacrifice and Savior. IT is an assent of the mind and a consent of the heart, consisting mainly of belief and trust; the testimony of God is implicitly accepted and believed as true while Christ is unreservedly trusted for salvation; by it the believer is brought into vital relations with God freely justified, and lives as seeing Him who is invisible. Faith cannot save but it reveals Christ to the soul as a willing and sufficient Savior, and commits the heart and life to Him. IX. Of Justification We believe the Scriptures teach that the great Gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in Him is justification; that justification includes the pardon of sin, and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness, that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer's blood; by virtue of which faith His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity. X. Of Adoption We believe the scriptures teach that adoption is a gracious act, by which the Father for the sake of Christ, accepts believers to the estate and condition of children, by a new and spiritual birth; sending the Spirit of adoption into their hearts, whereby they become members of the family of God and entitled to all the rights, privileges and promises of children; and if Children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ to the heritage of the saints on earth, and an inheritance reserved in heaven for them. XI. Of Sanctification We believe the Scriptures teach the sanctification is the process by which according to the will of God, we are made partners of His holiness, that it is a progressive work, that it is begun in regeneration; that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter in the continued use of the appointed means-especially the word of God. Self-examination, self denial, watchfulness, and prayer, and in the practice of all godly exercises and duties. XII. The Perseverance of Saints We believe the Scriptures teach that such as are truly regenerate being born of the Spirit will not utterly fall away and finally perish, but will endure unto the end; that their persevering attachment of Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. XIII. The Law and the Gospel We believe the Scriptures teach that the Law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of His moral government; that it is holy, just and good; and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their sinful nature; to deliver them from which and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the Holy Law is one great end of the Gospel, and of the means of Grace connected with the establishment of the visible Church. XIV. A Gospel Church We believe the Scriptures teach that a visible Church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinance of Christ; governed by His laws and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His word; that its only scriptural officers are bishops or pastors, and deacons, whose qualifications, claims and duties are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus. XV. Christian Baptism We believe the Scriptures teach that Christian Baptism is the immersion in water of a believer in Christ, into the name of the Father, and Son, and Holy Ghost; to show faith, in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a Church relation, and to the Lord's Supper. XVI. The Lord's Supper We believe the Scriptures teach that the Lord's Supper is a provision of bread and wine as symbols of Christ's body and blood, partaken of by the members of the Church in commemoration of the suffering and death of their Lord; showing their faith and participation in the merits of His sacrifice, and their hope of eternal life through His resurrection from the dead; its observance to be preceded by faithful self- examination. XVII. The Christian Sabbath We believe the Scriptures teach that the first day of the week is the Lord's Day and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by abstaining from all secular labor, except work of mercy and necessity, by the devout observance of all the means of grace both private and public; and by preparation for that rest that remaineth for the people of God. XVIII. Civil Government We believe the Scriptures teach that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interest and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed, except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the only Lord of the conscience and the Prince of the kings of the earth. But that civil rulers have no rights of control over or of interference with religious matters. XIX. Righteous and Wicked We believe the Scriptures teach that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are Justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in His esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight, wicked and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in this life and after death. XX. The World To Come We believe the Scriptures teach that the end of the world is approaching; that at the Last Day; Christ will descend from heaven and raise the dead from the grave for final retribution; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the wicked will be adjudge to endless sorrow and the righteous to endless joy and this judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell on principles of righteousness. The above Articles were carefully read by Bro. STOUGH and adopted in full. Then Bro. STOUGH lead in the constituting Prayer and R. D. CARROLL delivered the Charge to the new Church. The Council then extended the right hand of fellowship. New Hope was then declared to be an Independent Missionary Baptist Church. After Intermission: Brethren Jesse JACKSON, William A. CROOM and Floyd LOFTIN were elected as candidates to the offices of Deacons, and after a sermon by Bro. R.D. CARROLL on the office and work of the Deacon they were ordained as Deacons of New Hope Baptist Church by prayer and laying on of the hands of the Presbytery. Bro. STOUGH leading the ordaining prayer. Bro. William E. SUTTON was elected Clerk of the Church. New Hope-Dec. 2nd, 1894 The Church held a called meeting this day for business: Bro. A.L. STOUGH, moderator. Bro. STOUGH was unanimously elected pastor of the Church. Sisters, Susan T. TAYLOR and Sarah WILKINS were received by letter, from the Kinston Church as members of this. Right Hand of the fellowship was extended to Sisters WILKINS and Susan HILL. The ordinance of the Lords Supper was observed. Meeting adjourned. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. New Hope-Dec. 16th, 1894 The Church held its regular meeting this day and transacted the following business: Pastor moderator. Sisters W. C. & I.? P. SUTTON were received by letter, from the Church at Union, as members of this and the right hand of fellowship was extended them. Adjourned A.L. STOUGH, Moderator W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clk. January 18th, 1895 The Church held its regular meeting this day for business. Bro. R. D. CARROLL, Moderator. Bro. CARROLL was elected as pastor of the church to fill vacancy caused by removal of Bro. STOUGH to South Carolina. Brethren J.J. CROOM, J.W. & W.E. SUTTON were elected as Trustees of the Church. Sister Olive TAYLOR as Treasurer. Bro. Jesse JACKSON was chosen as a Committee of one to solicit subscriptions to salary of pastor. On motion it was agreed to petition the State Board of Missions for Fifty Dollars ---- as a supplement to the Pastor's salary. Meeting adjourned. R.D. CARROLL, Moderator W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. May 19th, 1895 The Church held a called meeting this day for business. Mrs. Minnie E. TAYLOR was received as a candidate for baptism. Letters of dismission were granted Bro. H.G. BARRETT and Sister Lula BARRETT to unite with the Baptist Church at Waco, Texas. Meeting adjourned. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. June 16th, 1895 Sister Minnie E. TAYLOR was baptised this day and with Sister Daisey BRIGHT received in full fellowship with the Church. Adjourned. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, Aug. 17th, 1895 AT a meeting held this day letters of dismission were granted Bro. A. L. and Sister M.C. STOUGH. AT a meeting beginning Aug. 11th and continued to the 18th Sister Sarah TURNER formerly a member of the Woodington Baptist Church, now extinct, united with this. Also Henry I. SUTTON, James RHODES, Franklin TURNER and Edgar TURNER were received as candidates for baptism and were baptised Aug. 18th. R.D. CARROLL, Moderator. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Sept. 14th, 1895 The Church held a called meeting for business. On motion it was decided to petition the Association for admittance to that body, for membership. H.E. SUTTON, J. H. SUTTON and R.D. CARROLL were elected as delegates to the next session of the Association. On motion the delegates were instructed to pledge the church for Twenty dollars to the various objects for the following year. Bro. J.J. CROOM was requested to solicit contributions for the different objects for the present year. A collection of 65 cents was taken up for minute fund. R.D. CARROLL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. November 16th, 1895 A letter of dismission was granted to Bro. Lee BARRETT to unite with the Church at Waco, Texas. Sept. 20th, 1896 A called meeting held this day elected Bro. R.H. LEWIS, Moderator. Bros. Jesse ACKSON, H.I. SUTTON and Isaac LOFTIN were elected as delegates to next session of Atlantic Association. A collection of $1.28 was taken up for minute fund. On motion, the Church pledged the same amounts for the various objects of association as for the past year. A motion prevailed to petition the Executive Committee of the Association to place this Church in the field now composed in part, of the Churches of La Grange, Seven Springs, and Union and be supplied with preaching by the pastor of those Churches. R.H. LEWIS, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. November 15th, 1896 This Church having been without a pastor during the present year extended a call to Bro. G.N. BRAY, of Shiloh to the pastorate for the ensuing year. G.N. BRAY, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope-April 9th, 1897 The Church met this day in regular conference for the transaction of business. A motion prevailed to change the time for preaching from the afternoon to the morning. Bro. J.J. CROOM was elected a Deacon of the Church. The pastor and deacons were elected a committee to notify all members of long absence of their duty to attend at least quarterly services and request them to do same also to wait on any members who have been guilty of immoral conduct and investigate the same. On motion it was decided to hold regular quarterly conference on Saturday before July and October. Brethren H.E. SUTTON, Jesse JACKSON and Franklin TURNER were elected as delegates to the next Union Meeting to be held with the Bear Creek Church in May. Adjourned. G.A. BRAY, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. July 10, 1897 Quarterly Conference, Pastor Moderator. A motion prevailed to reconsider the action of the April conference relative to the hour for preaching and decided to have same in the afternoon. W.E.S., Clk. Aug. 8, 1897 A letter of dismission was granted Sister Eliza BRYANT to unite with the Church at La Grange. W.E.S., Clk. Sept. 12, 1897 Brethren Jesse JACKSON, W.E. SUTTON, and J.H. SUTTON were chosen as delegated to the next session of the Association. A pledge of twenty dollars was made for the various objects of the Association. A meeting was started this day and continued tot he 20th conducted by the pastor assisted by Rev. C. H. BLANCHARD during which Luke JACKSON, Logan DUDLEY, Loffie SPENCE, Alice JACKSON, Willie E. SUTTON, Mollie WALLER and Anna HILL were received as candidates for baptism. All of whom were baptised on the 21st by the pastor. G.N. BRAY, Mod. W.E.S., Clk. Oct. 10, 1897 The resignation of Bro. BRAY was received and accepted as pastor. On motion a call was extended to him as pastor for the ensuing year. The brethren and sisters baptised on the 21st of Sept. were received in full fellowship. G.N. BRAY, Mod. W.E.S., Clk. Nov. 14-15, 1897 The Church being without a pastor ---to the removal of Bro. BRAY to the Theological Seminary, extended a unanimous call to Bro. C.W. BLANCHARD, who being present accepted same. On motion a change was made from the second to the third Sabbath for preaching. Also that we have preaching on every Saturday before. C.W. BLANCHARD, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Jan. 15, 1898 Letter of dismission granted Bro. Isaac N.? LOFTIN to unite with Church at Savannah, Ga. Jan. 16th, 1898 Letter of dismission granted Bros. FLOYD and SAMUEL and Sisters Adella LOFTIN to unite with the Roanoke Rapids Church. W.E.S., Clk. Feb. 19th, 1898 At a presbytery held this day by the Pastor assisted by Rev. Jno. E. WHITE. Bro. J.J. CROOM was ordained as a deacon of this Church. Adjourned. W.E.S., Clk. New Hope, June 18, 1898 A letter of dismission was grated Bro. Jas. HAZZARD to the church at Kinston. July 17, 1898 Quarterly Conference-Pastor Mod.-Brethren Jesse JACKSON, J.J. CROOM and Geo B. WALLER were chosen as delegates to the next session of the Union meeting to be held at Seven Springs. Sept. 17, 1898 At a meeting beginning this day and continued to the 25th by the pastor, assisted by Rev. M.L. KESLER, Sister Frank GRADY of the Methodist Church united with us. Ross SUTTON, Anna DUDLEY, Dora and Flora GRADY were received as candidates for baptism. That ordinance being performed on the 24th by the pastor. Bro. J.J. CROOM, Sisters Frank GRADY, Olive TAYLOR and Mary S. SUTTON were chosen as delegates tot he next session of the Association. A pledge of $126.00 was made for the various objects of the association for the insuing year. A letter of dismission was granted Br. C.W.BOONE. Nov. 20, 1898 Called Conference Bro. R.L. RHODES Mod. Pro tem. A call was extended Rev. C.W. BLANCHARD who was absent as pastor for the ensuing year. Dec. 18, 1898 Bro. C.W. BLANCHARD being present accepted the call as pastor for the present year. The hand of full fellowship was given Rose SUTTON, Anna DUDLEY and Dora GRADY. C.W. BLANCHARD Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clk. March 18th, 1899 At a meeting held this day charges were preferred against Brethren Henry I. SUTTON and Franklin TURNER for having been intoxicated and the deacons were appointed as a committee to notify them to appear before the church at the next regular meeting to be held April 15th and answer the same. C.W. BLANCHARD Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clerk. New Hope, April 15, 1899 Quarterly Conference-The minutes of last conference were read and approved. Bro. Franklin TURNER, being present pled guilty tot he charge of intoxication preferred against him at the last conference and asked that the church withdraw fellowship from him which was done. Bro. Henry I. SUTTON having failed to appear and answer the same charge, fellowship was withdrawn from hi. A motion prevailed petitioning the next session of the Union meeting to be held in July with this Church. C.W. BLANCHARD Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clk. July 16, 1899 Brethren Jesse JACKSON, & J.J. CROOM & Sisters Mary GRADY & Olive TAYLOR were chosen as delegates to the next Union meeting to be held with this church. Adjourned. W.E. SUTTON, Clerk. September 17th, 1899 Brethren Jesse JACKSON & Logan DUDLEY & Sisters T.? P. & Nonie O. SUTTON were chosen as delegates tot he next session of the Atlantic Association to be held with the Middle Street Church, New Bern. A motion prevailed to petition that body at its next session to grant us a letter of dismission to untie with the section of that territory as divided by the convention held at Fort Barnwell for that purpose. C.W. BLANCHARD Mod. W.E.S., clk. Oct. 1st, 1899 As a result of a meeting begun by Rev. J.B. JACKSON at Sandy Bottom School House on Sept. 17th and continued to the 28th. Rufus CROOM, Joseph CROO, Claude HARDISON, Misses Meta HAYNES, Nannie HAYNES, Vivian CROOM, Addie CAULY & Leona DAVIS were baptised on the 30th, and all except sisters CAULEY & DAVIS were received in full fellowship of this church this day. W.E.S., Clk. New Hope, Oct. 15, 1899 Quarterly Conf., Bro. J.B. JACKSON, Mod. Brethren Jesse JACKSON & W.E. SUTTON and sisters Olive TAYLOR and J.P. SUTTON WERE CHOSEN AS DELEGATES TOT HE NEW Association to be held at LaGrange on the 26th inst. Adjourned. J.B. JACKSON Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clerk. Dec. 17th, 1899 The church extended a call to Bro. J.B. JACKSON as pastor for the ensuing year, who being present accepted same. J.B. JACKSON, Mod. W.E.S., Clk. June 25th, 1900 Bro. Walter D. LOFTIN was granted letter of dismission. Sept. 9th, 1900 At a meeting beginning this day and held to and including the 16th by Rev. J.W. ROSE and the pastor Bro. F.M. WADE a former member of ----- Church in Duplin Co. united with us. William DUDLEY, Lonnie RHODES, Mrs. Lucy WADE and the Misses Blanche SUTTON, Myrtie RHODES, Lena GRANDY and Maude HILL were received on profession of faith and baptised on the 17th by the pastor. J. B. JACKSON, Mod. Oct. 14th, 1900 Brethren J.J. CROOM, Joseph CROOM and Luke JACKSON were chosen as delegates of the Association. Feb. 17th 1901 BRO. J.S. BOOKHART was elected and accepted as pastor for remainder of year. J.S. BOOKHART, Mod. W.E.SUTTON, Clk. March 17th, 1901 Brethren Jesse JACKSON, J.J. CROOM and Logan DUDLEY chosen as delegates Union meeting to be held at La Grange. April 21st, 1901 Bro. J.W. SUTTON excluded for drunkenness. New Hope, June 16th, 1901 Bro. J.J. CROOM and sisters Nonie O. SUTTON, Mary S. SUTTON and Flora GRADY to Union Meeting to be held with the church at Cove. Sept. 15th, 1901 Brethren Jesse JACKSON, J.J. CROOM and W.E. SUTTON were chosen as delegates to Union Meeting to be held with the church at Winterville. Oct. 20th, 1901 Brethren Jesse JACKSON, J.J. CROOM and W.E. SUTTON were chosen as delegates to the Association to be held with the Church at Kinston. Nov. 17th, 1901 Bro. J.S. BOOKHART tendered his resignation as pastor which was accepted. J.S. BROOKHART, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, March 16th, 1902 Called Conference-The Church having been without a pastor since the resignation of Bro. BOOKHART extended a call for remainder of year to Bro. W.L. BILBRO who being present accepted same at a salary of $75.00 per annum. Bro. W.L. BILBRO Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, April 20th, 1902 Quarterly Conference On motion the Clerk was instructed to request by letter all members who have absented themselves for a considerable length of time to attend service and Conference to be held Saturday July 19th at 11 O'clock, A.M. Bro. Joseph CROOM under charges of different crimes was excluded. Bro. J.J. CROOM reported that he had had a conference with Bro. J.D.? HAYNES relative to charge of drunkenness and that he met with no encouragement for reformation. Bro. CROOM & W.E. SUTTON were appointed to further confer with Bro. HAYNES and report. W.L. BILBRO Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clk. New Hope, May 18th, 1902 Called Conference-On motion the Clerk was instructed to write letters of dismission to members residing in the Sandy Bottom section who applied for same. W.L. BILBRO, Mod. W.E.SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. New Hope, June 24th, 1902 The following members, J.J. CROOM, Rufus CROOM, Rudolph CROOM, Seth CROOM, Joseph W. CROOM, Clyde CROOM, Ann M. CROOM, Maude CROOM, Meta CROOM, Nannie CROOM, Vivian CROOM, Addie CAULEY, Lizzie HAYNES and Leona DAVIS having this day presented a petition for letters of dismision for the purpose of organizing a Church at Sandy Bottom, the clerk under instructions of May the 18th wrote and delivered same. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. New Hope, July 19th, 1902 The time for holding night service was changed from Sunday to Saturday night for the present. W.L.BILBRO, Mod. W.E.SUTTON, Clk. Oct. 18th, 1902 A pledge of Thirty five dollars was made for general objects and Seventy dollars for pastor's salary for ensuing year. W.E.SUTTON, J.R. SUTTON and Logan DUDLEY were chosen as delegates to next session of association. W.L. BILBRO, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. New Hope, Sept. 20th, 1903 A pledge of thirty dollars to be paid annually for 4 years was made to aid in liquidating the debt resting on the Winterville High School. W.L. BILBRO, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. Oct. 20-22nd 1903 The Church through its representative W.L. BILBRO pledged seventy dollars for pastor's salary and thirty-six dollars for other objects for the ensuing year. W.L. BILBRO, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clerk. New Hope, March 13, 1904 Bro. W.P. CAMPBELL of --------- Co. having accepted a call through representatives of the following churches, viz. New Hope, Sandy Bottom, Union & Seven Springs appeared and entered upon such duties this day. Adjourned. H.P. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, Aug. 14th, 1904 A committee, consisting of Brethren Jesse JACKSON and C.R. TURNER and sisters Alice JACKSON and Nonie SUTTON was appointed by the pastor to investigate reports relative to certain members and report at the next meeting. Sallie GARDNER and Emma E. NOBLE having joined churches of other denominations were excluded from the roll of membership. Adjourned. W.P. CAMPBELL, Pastor W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, Sept. 10th, 1904 At a meeting beginning this day and continuing to the 18th with Bro. G.N. COWEN assisting the pastor a portion of the time the following business was transacted to wit: Bro. J.H. HAYNES, under charge of drinking to excess, confessed, asked for and was granted forgiveness. He was also granted a letter of dismission to unite with the Church at Sandy Bottom. Mrs. Maude JOHNSON was excluded for having joined another denomination and Miss Myrtle RHODES for dancing. Bro. C.R. TURNER and wife were received as members of this Church by letter from the Kinston Church. Mrs. Rebecca SUTTON was received as a candidate from baptism that ordinance being performed by the pastor on the 18th. W.E. SUTTON & J.L. JACKSON were chosen as delegates to meet with delegates from the other churches of this field at Union Church on Oct. 2nd relative to calling a pastor for the ensuing year. W.P. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Sept. 10th 1905 W.E. SUTTON & W.M. DUDLEY appointed to meet with delegates from other churches at Union to elect Pastor for ensuing year. Edgar TURNER excluded for uniting with church of another denomination. Ada SUTTON and Mildred JACKSON received by letter from Winterville. Sister Blanch SUTTON charged with dancing and Sister Mary GRADY and C.R. TURNER with not speaking. Bro. W.P. CAMPBELL was re-elected pastor for ensuing year. Bro. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Oct. 6th, 1905 Blanche SUTTON & Lonnie RHODES excluded for dancing and Dora GRADY for refusing to make friends with Bro. TURNER. Oct. 7th, Mrs. GRADY and Bro. TURNER make friends. Mrs. & Mr. C.R. TURNER granted letters of dismission. Logan DUDLEY excused for dancing. Nov. 12, 1905 Myrtle SUTTON and Janie SPENCE rec'd as members. Pastor, Mod. W.E.SUTTON, Clk. March 11th, 1906 Myrtle GRADY received for baptism and received as members. May 13th. April 8th, 1906 J.L. JACKSON, W.M. DUDLEY and G.W. ABBOTT elected as deacons. May 13th, 1906 W.M. DUDLEY and G.W. ABBOTT ordained as deacons. W.P. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Aug. 19th, 1906 J.L. JACKSON and W.M. DUDLEY appointed as delegates to Union to call pastor. Oct. 7th, 1906 At a meeting beginning this day and continued to 14th, Jake SUTTON and Clyde DUDLEY were received as members. J.L. JACKSON, G.W. ABBOTT, Alice JACKSON and Nonie SUTTON were elected delegates to Association with G.B. WALLER & Anna DUDLEY as alternates. Bro. CAMPBELL accepted call as Pastor for ensuing year. Pastor, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. New Hope, Oct. 30th, 1907 J.L. JACKSON & G.W. ABBOTT were elected as delegates to meet with delegates from other churches of the field at Union to call pastor for ensuing year. Bro. CAMPBELL was recalled to that position. Sept. 8, 1907 Logan DUDLEY was charged with dancing and the clerk instructed to notify him to attend the next regular meeting in Oct. and answer same. Sept. 23,1907 At a meeting begun on the night of the date, preaching done by Bro. Braxton CRAIG of Rocky Mount and continued till and including the morning service of the 29th the following named persons were received as candidates for baptism viz: J.D. SUTTON, Leroy JACKSON, Levi SANDERSON, Bessie SANDERSON, Mamie DUDLEY, Dora DUDLEY and Ruth SUTTON. That ordinance being performed by the pastor on the afternoon of the last named date. In addition to the above at a service held in the evening by the pastor Floyd SPENCE was received as a candidate for baptism. Pastor, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Oct. 13th, 1907 Mrs. Ida GRADY was rec'd and with Floyd SPENCE was baptised this day. Logan DUDLEY failed to appear and his case was continued to some future time. The church took the matter of electing officers of the S.S. in hand, and elected Bro. J.L. JACKSON as Supt. And Bro. Levi SANDERSON as assistant Supt. Also re-elected W.E. SUTTON who resigned as Sec. & Treas. of that body. Bro. J.L. JACKSON and Levi SANDERSON were appointed as delegates to the Ass'n. to be held in New Berne on Nov. 5, 6, & 7. W.P. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Nov. 10th, 1907 Bro. CAMPBELL accepts call to pastor for ensuing year. Dec. 7th, 1907 Mrs. Elcy SANDERSON as member of the Free Will Baptist Church was received a member of this church by profession of faith. W.P. CAMPBELL, Mod. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. New Hope, March 8th, 1908 The Rev. W.P. CAMPBELL -----tendered his resignation as pastor which was accepted. W.E. SUTTON, Ch. Clerk. ------------- New Hope, March 8th, 1909 The Church having been without a pastor for a year extended a call for he Rev. T.Y. RAGLAND for remainder of year and he being present accepted same. April 4th, 1909 Bro. Jesse JACKSON tendered his resignation as Treasurer and Bro. Levi SANDERSON was elected to that position. T.J. RAGLAND, Pastor. W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Aug. 1st, 1909 Wilmouth SUTTON, Willie PARROTT and Levi SANDERSON were appointed to raise funds to build a parsonage at Cove City and Alice JACKSON and Wilmouth SUTTON as comm. To get up an entertainment for same purpose. New Hope Church, Sept. 5th, 1909 C.R.TURNER was this day excluded for immoral conduct and Logan DUDLEY for same offence and uniting with Church of another denomination. At a meeting continued from this day with preaching beginning Monday night by Rev. T.H. KING and closing Friday night Chauncey COX was received as a candidate for baptism. T.J. RAGLAND, Pastor W.E. SUTTON, Clk. Oct. 3RD, 1909 Chauncy COX was baptised and received in full fellowship this day. New Hope Church, March 10, 1910 Bro. William E. SUTTON departed this life Nov. 13, 1909. He being the first Church Clerk was ever elected to hold that position for the New Hope Church. His seat was never vacant unless something very important happened. He was a great Church and Sunday School worker. T.J. RAGLAND, Pastor Grv. ABBOTT, Ch. Clk. New Hope, Feb. 20, 1910 On the first Lords day of Feb. 1910 G.W. ABBOTT was elected Church Clerk to fill the vacancy of Bro. W.E. SUTTON, deceased. T.J. RAGLAND, Pastor G.W. ABBOTT, Ch. Clk. New Hope, Nov. 12, 1910 Jake SUTTON was elected Church Clerk to fill vacancy caused by resignation of Bro. ABBOTT. Rev. J. ABNER now served the church as pastor during period interring the pastorate of Bro. T.J. RAGLAND and Bro. N.D. BLACKMAN but by some means there was no record made of the work during his pastorate. New Hope, June 27, 1915 On the fourth Sunday We had preaching by Pastor N.D.? BLACKMAN and at this meeting We received the following persons as members, Mrs. Mary JACKSON by letter from Jacksonville Baptist Church. Mrs. Dora SUTTON by restoration as she was once before a member of this Church. Mrs. J.F. SPENCE presented her self a Candidate for Baptism also did Miss Irma Lee SUTTON and by motion the Church as a body adjourned. Levi SANDERSON, Church Clerk During this pastorate of Bro. BLACKMAN, the clerk failed to note any business transactions of the church; therefore we are without a record of his work. However during his ministry a very interesting revival was held by Rev. E.E. STEVENS that resulted in a large increase of membership. At the close of this meeting an effort was put on foot to rebuild a parsonage for this field, by the aid of friends, the church got to either a good lot of material and done the foundation for the parsonage near the church house but for some reason the work was discontinued. At the close of Association year 1916. Bro. BLACKMAN c--- to be the pastor any longer. March first, 1917 By arrangement with Executive committee of Neuse Atlantic Association, Rev. B.G. EARLY became pastor of the New Hope Church it being places in the field with Cald? Dell, Sandy Bottom, Union and Seven Springs. Bro. EARLY held his first service with us first Sunday in March. Immediately upon coming on the field the matter of completing the parsonage was taken up. It being considered useless? To build where begun, it was decided to build on another site. Mrs. Jacob F. PARROTT donated a lot on ----? Highway three miles from Kinston and the material was placed on new site and work begun anew about April 1st. The work was continued and parsonage was first occupied in Oct. 1917. At a business meeting of the Church in May 1917. Brethren J.G. JACKSON, and Robt. HUNTER were elected trustees of the parsonage property for New Hope to serve with Brother J.J. CROOM and Bro. F. TYNDALL of Sandy Bottom Church. The Church met in conference in September 1917 and elected Brethren Dallas SUTTON and J.F. SPENCE deacons of New Hope Church. The Church in Conference Fourth Sunday in October 1917 appointed the following delegates & Neuse Atlantic Association. Brethren Henry SPENCE, Dan TURNSFLEY?, and Dallas SUTTON. By motion request was made that Executive committee continue. Bro. EARLY as our pastor for next year. On the second Sunday night in April 1918, Rev. T.B. DAVIS aided the pastor in the Ordination of the deacons elect Brethren SUTTON, and SPENCE. Bro. DAVIS delivered --- and sermon and --- the ordinary prayer. The church met in conference Sunday night June 9, and elected J.F. SPENCE collector for pastor's salary, and appointed Dal. SUTTON to make charge of communion service. By motion sister Elcy SANDERS was granted letter of dismission. Miss Irma SUTTON offered her resignation as clerk which was accepted. Sister Dora SUTTON was elected Clerk. Recorded by B.G. EARLY. In the fall of 1919 Sister Dora SUTTON resigned as church clerk and Bro. J.L. GOODMAN was elected as her successor. Mr. And Mrs. J.L. JACKSON were appointed directors for the $7500? and campaign in this church. The Church was apportioned $1,845.00 and pledged $1558.00. Of this amount $26.50 was paid in November 1919 to the Thomasville Orphanage. Rev. B.G. EARLY and Brother Henry SPENCE represented the Church at the association which was held with Pollocksville Baptist Church Oct. 28th and Oct. 29th, the church made the following financial report to the association. Paid on Pastor's salary $175.00 Paid on Building and repair $60.75 Paid Sunday School expenses $6.00 Contributed to the poor $17.15 Minute Fund? $2.00 To State Missions $24.00 To Home Missions $12.00 To Foreign Mission $20.00 To Sunday School $2.00 To Thomasville Orphanage $30.25 To Christian Education $20.00 To Old Minister's Relief $2.50 Total for the year $352.15 In the fall of 1919 Brother: J.L. JACKSON offered to bear the expense of moving the church to the parsonage lot on the main highway. A motion prevailed to accept Bro. JACKSON'S offer for moving the church to the parsonage lot. But because of some strong opposition on the part of a few members, the church was not moved to the parsonage lot until April 1920. Rev. B.G. EARLY tendered his resignation as pastor. His resignation taking effect Jan. 1st 1920. Minutes for 1920 In January this church met in conference with the other churches of this field; Sandy Bottom, Union and Seven Springs and extended a call to Rev. H.R. BOOTH could give his answer to the churches. Brother EARLY moved away in January. After Bro. EARLY left the field there were no other services held in this church until 2nd Sunday in March. Rev. R.P. MERRITT, having been secured as supply for the field until Bro. BOOTH could give his answer to the call, which the churches had extended him, held service on that date. There was no service in this church on the 2nd Sunday in April, as the church was being moved and not in condition for service. Wednesday night, April 14, 1920. Rev. H. R. BOOTH visited this field and held service in New Hope Church in it's new position, Wednesday night April 14th, 1920. This being the first service held in the church, after it's being moved to it's present position on the parsonage lot. R.P. MERRITT Rev. H.R. BOOTH declined the call to this field. Sunday, May 2, 1920. This church met in conference with the other churches of the field, at Sandy Bottom, Sunday, May 2nd and extended the call to Rev. R.P. MERRITT as pastor for the ensuing year, at a salary of $760.00 per year; the part this church pledged was $300.00. Brother MERRITT, being present, accepted the call. R.P. MERRITT Brother R.P. MERRITT moved to this field and occupied the parsonage, May 5, 1920. On May 5th, New Hope and Sandy Bottom churches gave the new pastor a nice sounding? On May 6th video? the parsonage with a nice vapor-oil stove. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, May 23, 1920 Rev. R.P. MERRITT held his first service as pastor of this church this day at 11 o'clock. Letters of dismission were granted today to Mrs. M.E. WALLER, Brothers Felix and Simon WALLER. This day the church made application to the State Board of Missions for aid on pastor's salary to the amount of $10.00 per month. The motion prevailed that the church postpone the organization of Sunday School until work on the concrete highway by the church should be completed. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, May 30, 1920 Today the church voted unanimously to hold a revival meeting beginning on the 4th Sunday in July and continuing through the following week. The pastor was given the privilege of selecting his help for this meeting. Two old camps belonging to the church were sold to Mrs. Gilmer VICK for $5.00. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, June 6, 1920 Beginning with today New Hope will have regular services on 1st Sunday night and 3rd Sunday morning of each month. Bro. MERRITT announced that a prayer and song service would be held regularly each Friday evening at 8:15 o'clock. The church voted to reconsider the matter of organizing a Sunday School and Sunday June 13th, 3 P.M. was the time appointed for the re-organization of the Sunday School which had been discontinued since August 31, 1919. Miss Addie HUMPHREY was elected church organist and Miss Alice JACKSON assistant church organist. Miss Bertha HUMPHREY was elected choir leader. The pastor appointed Mrs. J.L. JACKSON chairman of a committee on church grounds giving her the privilege of selecting the other members of her committee. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, June 13, 1920 The church met in conference and organized a Sunday School this P.M. at 3:30 o'clock by electing officers and teachers and appointing a time of meeting. The hour appointed was 3 P.M. For a more extensive report see Sunday School minutes. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, June 30, 1920 The communion was observed today for the first time in many months. The church voted to observe the communion each 3rd Sunday of the month beginning with this month. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, July 18, 1920. Sister, Bessie CROOM this day united with this church by a letter of dismission from Winterville Baptist Church. Also Sister Isadore SUTTON was rec'd into this church by Experience from the Free Will Baptist Church. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. ------------- Thursday, July 29, 1920 Beginning with Saturday night July 24th and continuing to and including this day the pastor assisted by Rev. O.B. MITCHELL conducted a series of revival services. The church was greatly revived, but there were no additions. But Bro. J.E. DEBRUHL was rec'd under the watch-care of the church pending his letter from Fort Barnwell Baptist Church. R.P. MERRIT, Mod. Sunday, Aug. 1, 1920 Rev. B.G. EARLY, Waldo EARLY and David Lee EARLY were granted letters of dismission from this church, to unite with any other church of like faith and order. These letters were granted at their request. Sunday, Sept. 5, 1920 The church in conference voted to hold a 2nd revival meeting beginning on 4th, Sunday in Sept. and continuing throughout the following week. Brother J.L. GOODMAN offered his resignation as church clerk. His resignation was accepted and Brother J.L. JACKSON was elected as his successor. Mrs. D.M. SUTTON was elected church treasurer. The church took a special offering for the purpose of purchasing some new song books; six dollars was raised and the clerk was instructed to purchase the said books at once. The pastor by authority of the church appointed the following committee: Brother J.L. JACKSON, Sister J.W. SUTTON and sister Dora SUTTON. The same to constitute a financial committee, whose duty it shall be to co-operate with the deacons in all financial matters. Communion observed on Sept. 19, 1920 Sunday, Oct. 3, 1920 Beginning on Sept. 26 and continuing to and including this day, the pastor assisted by Rev. C.H. NORRIS, conducted a revival meeting in this church. As a result of this meeting the church was greatly revived in general, and the following persons were received into the church, viz: Edith CROOM by profession of faith, Mrs. B. GRAY by letter from Sandy Bottom Baptist Church, Miss Helen CROOM by letter from Winterville Baptist Church; Mrs. Furney HUMPHREY by experience from the Free Will Baptist Church and Brother Rudolph CROOM came under the watch-care of this church pending his letter from Winterville Baptist church. R.P. MERRIT-Pastor Sunday, Oct. 10, 1920 Edith CROOM was baptized by the pastor in the pool of the First Baptist Church of Kinston this day. Also Miss Jaunita WALTERS who made a profession of faith at the water's side was rec'd and baptized. R.P. MERRITT, pastor. Sunday, Oct. 17, 1920 Mrs. L.B. TAYLOR, Miss Addie HUMPHREY, Brothers J.L. JACKSON and Ben SUTTON were today appointed delegates to the next session of the Neuse Atlantic Association, to be held with the Swansboro Baptist Church, Oct. 26th and 27th. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Sunday, Oct. 3, 1920 A Ladies Missionary Society was organized today with Mrs. R.P. MERRITT as Pres. And 14 members enrolled. This church was represented at the association by Rev. and Mrs. R.P. MERRITT. The church made the following financial report at the association, viz: For pastor's salary $275.77 Incidental expenses $7.50 Sunday School Expenses $22.69 Minute Fund $3.00 For help in two revivals $98.40 $75.00 by the men $20.50 $75.00 by the women $70.05 Orphanage $26.50 Grand Total $524.41 The church reported the following gains during the year, viz: 3 by baptism, 4 by letter and 2 by experience. The following losses were also reported viz: Dismissed by letter: 8. Sunday, Oct. 31, 1920 Brother MERRITT held service tonight and reported on the Association. He states that hereafter a teachers meeting will be held regularly each Tuesday night at the parsonage. Sunday, Nov. 7, 1920 Brother Rudolph CROOM was rec'd into this church by letter of dismission from Winterville Baptist Church. Brother Claude GRAY was granted a letter of dismission from this church to unite with Arlington St. Baptist Church, Rocky Mount. Brother R. P. MERRITT tendered his resignation as pastor, the same to take effect at once, giving as his reason in so doing that the church year should begin and close with Nov. 1st. The church accepted Brother MERRRITT'S resignation, voted to adopt Nov.1- Nov. 1st as the dates for beginning and closing the church year. And then the church unanimously voted to call Bro. MERRITT as pastor for the ensuing year. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Sunday, Nov. 21, 1920 Brother Rudolph CROOM and Brother Dan HUMPHREY were appointed to co-operate with Brother J.L. JACKSON, in arranging together with representatives from Sandy Bottom Baptist Church for the completion of the painting of the parsonage. One coat of paint having already been put on in Sept. R.P. MERRITT, Mod. Thursday, Nov. 25, 1920 The church observed Thanksgiving Day, this day, with an appropriate service. An offering was taken for the Thomasville orphanage, which resulted in $18.00 being given for that purpose. At this meeting Brother George WALLER was granted a letter of dismission to unite with Arlington Street Baptist church, Rocky Mount. Saturday, Nov. 27, 1920 The Ladies Missionary Society this day made a valuable offering of material things to Kennedy Home. Sunday, Dec. 19th, 1920 The Communion was observed today. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor Sunday, Jan. 30, 1921 There was a Union meeting for this field, held at Sandy Bottom today. There were morning and afternoon services with dinner on the grounds, the women and men having separate meetings in the afternoon. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Sunday, March 20, 1921 The Communion was observed today. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor March 14th, 1921 In a series of revival meetings beginning this day and continued through March 13th in which the pastor assisted by Rev. C.W. BLANCHARD did the preaching. Miss Hortense WALTERS was received as a candidate for baptism. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Sunday, April 3rd, 1921 Rev. R.J. CORBETT supplied for the pastor this evening. He preached an evangelistic sermon, as a result of which Spaight SUTTON and Morris SUTTON were received upon profession of faith as candidates for baptism. On April 4th & 6th the pastor preached evangelistic sermons on the night of the 4th, James CROOM was rec'd upon profession of faith as a candidate for baptism. At the close of the service on April 5th, Plummer DANIELS was rec'd upon profession of faith as a candidate for baptism. All of these candidates and Miss Hortense WALTERS were baptized by the pastor on May 1st and rec'd into this church. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Sunday, April 17, 1921 Rev. and Mrs. R.P. MERRITT were received into this church today by letter. R.P.M.-Pastor Sunday, June 19, 1921 The Communion was observed today, the pastor used the occasion to preach a doctrinal sermon on the subject "What Baptists Believe" R.P. MERRITT,-Pastor The parsonage was painted in June. The funds being provided through individual donations by members of Sandy Bottom and New Hope churches. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, July 17, 1921 Brethren J.F. SPENCE and Milton SPENCE were this day excluded from the church upon their admission of illicit distilling. R.P. MERRITT-Mod. Sunday, Sept. 18, 1921 This day the pastor, assisted by Rev. L.R. O'Brian, began services, continuing same through Sept. 28th. As a result of this series of meetings the following persons were received as candidates for baptism; Mr. E.W. MINCHEW, James HUMPHREY, Fred HUMPHREY, Mr. And Mrs. J.V. HILL, Lucille HILL, Odell HILL, Ola GRANT, C.C. COLE, Christian COLE, Misses Sterling DeBRUHL and Monica DeBRUHL, Earl De BRUHL, Winnie MACDANIELS, Mrs. J.C. COLLINS, Mr. Johnnie SANDERSON, Herman SMITH, Mrs. Callie SPENCE, John Willard SUTTON, Grace SUTTON, Eugene SUTTON, Clarence SUTTON, Roland SUTTON, and Mr. F.E. ROUSE. Sept. 26, 1921 Bro. Milton SPENCE was restored to full fellowship in this church tonight-R.P. MERRITT, Pastor The following were received by experience from the Free-Will Baptist Church viz: Mr. & Mrs. D.M. DEBRUHL, Mrs. Maud BREY and David CUNNINGHAM. The following persons by letters of dismission from The First Baptist Church of Kinston, viz: Mrs. E.W. MINCHEW, Miss Kathleen COLE, Grover COLE and William COLE. The foregoing candidates for baptism were baptized on Sunday Oct. 2nd and they together with all the other candidates named above, were rec'd into this church Sunday night, Oct. 2nd. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor ------------ Sunday, Oct. 16, 1921 The communion service was observed today. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, Oct. 16, 1921 The following were appointed to represent New Hope at the Association to be held with the Beaufort Baptist Church Oct. 25th and 26th, viz:-Bro. Milton SPENCE, Misses Kathleen COLE, Hazel SUTTON and Mary SUTTON. The following financial report to the association was read and approved by the church, viz: Paid for pastor's salary $293.91 Paid for Building & repairs 13.79 Paid for Incidentals 87.09 Paid for S.S.expenses 123.28 Paid for Minute Fund 3.00 Paid for Relief Work 21.40 Paid for 75 million Campaign Fund undesignated 317.51 Paid for State Missions 10.40 Paid for Foreign Missions 3.50 Paid for Orphanage 18.00 Paid for Grand Total $891.88 The name of Mrs. Lillie Belle CROOM was dropped from the roll as she had united with a Church of another denomination. Rev. and Mrs. R.P. MERRITT, Mrs. Kathleen COLE, Hazel SUTTON and Mary SUTTON attended the Association as representatives from New Hope. Sunday, Oct. 29, 1921 Tonight the church voted to call Rev. R.P. MERRITT as pastor for the next associational year, at a salary of $400.00. He being present accepted the call. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Thursday, Nov. 24, 1921 Thanksgiving Day was appropriately observed in a regular thanksgiving service tonight. An offering was made for the orphanage which amounted to $27.50. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, Dec. 25, 1921 The communion service was observed today. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, Feb. 26, 1922 The pastor assisted by Rev. B. TOWNSEND began a series of revival meetings today and continued same through March 7th. There were no additions but the church was much revived despite the fact that the weather was very unfavorable for the meetings most of the time. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Brick pillars were placed under the church during March. R.P.M.-Pastor Sunday March 26, 1922 Brethren Rudolph CROOM, Dan HUMPHREY, George SPENCE and sisters Isadore SUTTON and R. CROOM were appointed as a nominating committee to nominate three new deacons for New Hope. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, April 9, 1922 Brethren J.L. JACKSON, E.W. MINCHEW and Ray SUTTON were nominated and elected deacons of New Hope church today. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, April 23, 1922 Rev. B. TOWNSEND preached today and assisted the Pastor in the ordination of Brethren J.L. JACKSON, E.W. MINCHEW and Ray SUTTON as deacons of New Hope Church. Bro. TOWNSEND also assisted the pastor in the observance of the communion service. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor May 14, 1922 The pastor assisted by Rev. Lee McBribe WHITE began a series of revival meetings in this church on the evening of May 8th continuing same to this date. This series of revival services greatly revived the Church, but did not result in any additions to the church membership. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, June 25, 1922 Today the Church voted to repair the church and raised $48.00 for same. R.P. MERRITT, Pastor. Sat., Aug. 26, 1922 The church held a picnic on this date. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sept. 3, 1922 The pastors assisted by Rev. H.A. DAY began a series of revival services on this date. Continuing same through Sept. 13th. As a result of these special services the following persons were converted viz: Mr. Will HILL, Mrs. Roland SPENCE and The above named were batpised into the Church Sept. 17th. Also Mrs. Will HILL united with this church by experience from the Free-Will Baptist Church. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor. Sunday, Sept. 17, 1922 Bro. R.P. MERRITT, on this date, tendered his resignation as pastor of this church. His resignation to take effect with the expiration of this Associational year, or Oct. 31. R.P. MERRITT-Pastor Sunday, Oct. 22, 1922 The Church on this date, voted to accept Bro. MERRITT'S resignation as pastor of this church. Rev. and Mrs. R.P. MERRITT, Mrs. Rudolph CROOM and Miss Kathleen COLE were elected to represent New Hope at the Association to be held with The First Baptist Church of Goldsboro, Oct. 24th and 25th. The church voted to raise $200.00 for pastor's salary during the next associational year. Rev. and Mrs. R.P. MERRITT were granted letters of dismission from this church upon their own request. The following annual financial report was read and approved by the church viz: Paid for pastor's salary $274.25 Paid for 75 million Campaign $120.62 Paid for Building and Repairs $78.00 Paid for Relief Funds $20.48 Paid for Orphanage $27.50 Paid for help in meetings $67.51 Paid for S.S. expenses $51.50 Paid for Minute Fund $3.00 Paid for Incidentals $13.09 Grand Total $655.95 Bro. Ray SUTTON was re-elected church treasurer. Mrs. Irma RHEM was elected treasurer for the 75 Million Campaign Fund for New Hope. Mr. J.L. JONES was re-elected Supt. Of the S.S. and Lot TAYLOR was elected Secretary of the S.S. for the next associational year. R.P. MERRITT-Mod. Rev. R.P. MERRIT preached his last sermon to the churches of this field, they having assembled for that purpose, at Sandy Bottom, Oct. 29, 1922. All minutes written during 1920, 1921 and 1922 or during the pastoral of Rev. R.P. MERRITT were written by himself. Jan. 21, 1923. A Church Conference was called to order by Pastor R.E. INGRAM of New Hope Church and the following business was brought before the conference. Bro. J.L. JACKSON resigned as church clerk and Rudolph CROOM was elected to fill his unexpired time for the year 1923. It was named and carried that the Pastor Salary be paid by the month and the Church pay the sum of Two Hundred dollars for the Association year. 1923. It was named and carried that Bro. James RHODES be elected section to look after the Church with a salary of Two dollars for month. The application letter to state board was approved and asked for aid on pastor salary. It was named and carried to adjourn. R.E. INGRAM, Mod. Rudolph CROOM, Clerk June 21, 1923 Speight SUTTON, Jr. was made sec. and treas. of the church on Oct. 31, 1936. Double doors was put in the church by Rev. B.G. EARLY in Jan. 1939. Mrs. J.W. SUTTON begged money to pay for these doors. MEMBERSHIP TO NEW HOPE 1) Ian HUMPHREY 2) Iorl SUTTON 3) Frank WALLER, letter of dismission, May 23, 1920 (name crossed out) 4) Burrell SUTTON 5) Robert SKINTER?-moved 6) Ben TAYLOR 7) Harold SUTTON 8) Troy SUTTON 9) Milton SPENCE 10) Willie HUMPHREY 11) Ephraim SANDERSON in Kinston 12) James WILLIAMS (name crossed out) Dead 13) Ray SUTTON 14) Ben SUTTON 15) Paul HUMPHREY 16) Thomas SANDERSON in Kinston 17) Simon JACKSON 18) Roland SPENCE 19) Henry SPENCE 20) Lot TAYLOR 21) Roy SPENCE (name crossed out) drowned June 29, 1917 22) Rodger SUTTON 23) Mallie SPENCE 24) Linwood SUTTON 20) Simon WALLER (name crossed out) letter of dismission May 23, 1920 21) Johnnie GRAY 22) Claud GRAY (name crossed out) in Rocky Mount (709 Branch St.) by letter 23) Sam ROYAL(name crossed out) uncertain-last 24) B.G. EARLY (name crossed out) letter of dismission Aug. 1st, 1920 25) Waldo EARLY (name crossed out) letter of dismission Aug. 1st, 1920 26) H.G. ELLIOTT-moved-lost, now near Union 27) David Lee EARLY (name crossed out) letter of dismission 8/20 28) Bland SPENCE 29) Theodore R. SPENCE (name crossed out) -inactive J.L. GOODMAN-inactive Herman SPENCE-inactive J.L. JACKSON Rudolph CROOM Chancey COX-dead Levi SANDERSON-inactive G.O. SPENCE Floyd SPENCE-excluded Roy JACKSON-inactive James RHODES Walter SPENCE (name crossed out) Roosevelt SPENCE-inactive by letter George WALLER James HUMPHREY (uncertain Rev. R.P. MERRITT by letter Mrs. R.P. MERRITT Mr. Wade, F.M. (inactive) 30) Mabel ROYAL uncertain-lost 31) Addie HUMPHREY inactive 32) Bertha HUMPHREY inactive 33) Kitty COX 34) Mrs. Ray SUTTON 35) Alice WALLER-(name crossed out)-letter of dismission-May 23, June 1920 36) Irma SUTTON-Mrs. RIM 37) Mrs. Hal SUTTON inactive 38) Letti HUMPHREY Mrs. Clyde TAYLOR (both names crossed out) 39) Kathleen SUTTON 40) Mrs. Henry SPENCE 41) Mrs. Floyd SPENCE inactive 42) Irma Lee SUTTON-Uncertain see (r) 43) Hartly? JACKSON some of the SUTTONS 44) Hazel SUTTON 46) Mary TAYLOR 46) Mary SUTTON 47) Ida GRAY 48) Mrs. J.H. WILLIAMS-Mrs. Frank ROUSE 49) Mrs. Mary JACKSON 50) Mrs. Dora SUTTON-Mrs. Will SUTTON 51) Mrs. B.G. EARLY-(name crossed out)letter of dismission Aug. 1920 52) Irene EARLY-(name crossed out) letter of dismission-Aug. 1920 53) Mrs. H.G. ELLIOTT-moved-inactive-now near Union 54) Mrs. Furney HUMPHREY-inactive 55) Hellen CROOM 56) Mrs. Rudolph CROOM 57) Mrs. John SUTTON 58) Mrs. Barthy GRAY Miss Ruth SUTTON-nee-Mrs. David CAULEY-Kinston-inactive Mrs. J.W. SUTTON Mrs. Mallie SPENCE-inactive Edith CROOM Mrs. John SANDERSON Mrs. L.D. SPENCE-(name crossed out)-died 1918 Mrs. L.B. TAYLOR Mrs. G.O. SPENCE Blanche SPENCE Georgia SPENCE Mrs. W.S. SUTTON Miss Alice JACKSON Mrs. J.H. CROOM-GRADY-inactive Mrs. Lillie Bell CROOM-excluded Eliza JACKSON Juanita WALTERS Mrs. Jeannie SPENCE Mrs Dan HUMPHREY Mrs. R.P. MERRITT-dismissed by letter Mrs. F.M. WADE-inactive MALES--------------When Rec'd------How Rec'd---When Dismi'd------How Dism'd Jesse JACKSON------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------March 13, 1911----Death Floyd LOFTIN-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Jan. 16, 1898-----Letter Isaac LOFTIN-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Jan. 15, 1898-----Letter Walter LOFTIN------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------June 25, 1900-----Letter Samuel LOFTIN------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------June 16, 1898-----Letter J.H. SUTTON--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Apr. 21, 1901-----Excluded Samuel C. SUTTON---Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Nov. 14, 1909-----by Death W.E. SUTTON--------Nov. 21, 1894 W.T.? SUTTON-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Feb. 26, 1896------Death W.J. SUTTON--------Aug. 18, 1895---Experience--April 15, 1899-----Excluded W.A. CROOM ------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Died Nov. 30, 1899 J.J. CROOM---------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------May 16, 1902-------Letter Rudolph CROOM------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------May 16, 1902-------Letter W.G. BARRETT-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------May 19, 1895-------Letter Lee BARRETT--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Nov. 16, 1895------Letter Robt. ARNETT-------Nov. 21, 1894 Janus HAZZARD------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------June 18, 1898------Letter C.W. BOONE---------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Sept. 25, 1898-----Letter Geo. B. WALLER-----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter A.L. STOUGH--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter------Aug. 17, 1895------Letter Jas. RHODES--------Aug. 18, 1895---Experience Franklin TURNER----Aug. 18, 1895---Experience--April 15, 1899-----Excluded Edgar TURNER-------Aug. 18, 1895---Experience--Sept. 10, 1905-----Excluded Luke JACKSON-------Sept. 21, 1897--Experience Logan DUDLEY-------Sept. 21, 1897--Experience Loffie SPENCE------Sept. 21, 1897--Experience---------------------Dead Ross SUTTON--------Dec. 18, 1898---Experience Rufus CROOM--------Oct. 1, 1899----Baptism-------May 16, 1902-----Letter Seth CROOM---------Oct. 1, 1899----Baptism-------May 16, 1902-----Letter Clyde CROOM--------Oct. 1, 1899----Baptism-------May 16, 1902-----Letter Joseph CROOM-------Oct. 1, 1899----Baptism-------April 20, 1902---Excluded Claude HARDISON----Oct. 1, 1899----Baptism-------May 1902---------Death Jas. H. HAYNES-----Sept. 9, 1900---Letter--------Sept. 11, 1904---Letter F.M. WADE----------Sept. 9, 1900---Baptism William DUDLEY-----Sept. 9, 1900---Baptism Lonnie RHODES------Sept. 9, 1900---Baptism-------Oct. 6, 1905-----Excluded Joseph W. CROOM----Oct. 1, 1899----Proof of Faith-May 16, 1902----Letter G.W. ABBOTT--------Oct. 9, 1904----Proof of Faith C.R. TURNER--------Oct. 9, 1904----Letter from Stanton?-Sept. 5, 1909-Excluded FEMALES Eliza JACKSON------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Kate M. JACKSON----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Ann M. CROOM-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter--------May 16, 1902-----Letter Maud CROOM---------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter--------May 16, 1902-----Letter Emma E. SUTTON-----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter--------Oct. 20, 1901----Died J.P. SUTTON--------Dec. 16, 1894---Letter--------Nov. 3, 1899-----Died W.C. SUTTON--------Dec. 16, 1894---Letter Anna STROUD--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Mary S. TAYLOR-----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Nonie O. SUTTON----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Olive TAYLOR-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Susan T. TAYLOR----Dec. 2, 1894----Letter Minnie E. TAYLOR---June 16, 1895---Experience Alice WALLER-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Sallie HARDISON----Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Aug. 14, 1904-----Excluded Mary ARNETT--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Eugenie ELLIS------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter Eliza BRYANT-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Aug. 14, 1904-----Letter Emma NOBLE---------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Aug. 14, 1904-----Excluded Lula BARRETT-------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------May 19, 1895------Letter Daisey BRIGHT------June 16, 1895---Experience---Oct. 30, 1898-----Died Susan HILL---------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Jan. 18, 1902-----Died Lizzie HAYNES------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------May 16, 1902------Letter M.C. STOUGH--------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Aug. 17, 1895-----Letter Sarah J. WILKINS---Dec. 2, 1894----Letter-------Oct. 1, 1898------Death Sarah TURNER-------Aug. 18, 1895---Reclaimed----Nov. 7, 1901------Death Adella LOFTIN------Nov. 21, 1894---Letter-------Jan. 16, 1898-----Letter Edna GOODMAN-------Nov. 21st 1894--Letter-------Feb. 3, 1902------Death Alice JACKSON------Sept. 21, 1897 Willa E. SUTTON----Sept. 21, 1897--Letter-------July 28, 1915-----Letter Mollie WALLER------Sept. 21, 1897--Experience---------------------Letter Anna HILL----------Sept. 21, 1897--Experience Flora GRADY--------Sept. 20, 1898--Letter Dora GRADY---------Dec. 18, 1898---Experience---------------------Excluded Anna DUDLEY--------Dec. 18, 1898---Experience Mary GRADY-------------------------Letter Meta CROOM---------Oct. 1, 1899------------------May 16, 1902-----Letter Annie? CROOM-------Oct. 1, 1899------------------May 16, 1902-----Letter Vivian CROOM-------Oct. 1, 1899------------------May 16, 1902-----Letter Adde CAULEY--------------------------------------May 16, 1902-----Letter Lena DAVIS---------------------------------------May 16, 1902-----Letter Lucy WADE----------Sept. 9, 1900----Baptism Blanche SUTTON-----Sept. 9, 1900----Baptism-----------------------Excluded Myrtle RHODES------Sept. 9, 1900----Baptism-----------------------Excluded Lena (Grady-crossed out) HILL-Sept. 9, 1900-Baptism-Oct. 15, 1912-Letter Maude Hill JOHNSON-Sept. 9, 1900----Baptism-------Sept. 11, 1904-Excluded Rebecca SUTTON-----Sept. 18, 1904---Proof of Faith Maude ABBOTT-------Oct. 9, 1904-----Proof of Faith Fannie TURNER------Oct. 5, 1905-----Letter Ada SUTTON---------Sept. 10, 1905---Letter Mildred JACKSON----Sept. 10, 1905---Letter MEMBERSHIP, May 13, 1906 MALES Jesse JACKSON------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter--------Mar. 12, 1911----by Death J.L. JACKSON-------Sept. 21, 1897---Proof of Faith Leroy JACKSON------Sept. 29, 1907 W.E. SUTTON--------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter-------Nov. 13, 1909-----by Death Ross SUTTON--------Dec.18, 1898-----Proof of Faith Robert ARNETT------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter-------------------------by Death G.B. WALLER--------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter--------Aug. 22, 1907----by Death James RHODES-------Aug.18, 1895-----Proof of Faith Logan DUDLEY-------Sept. 9, 1900----Proof of Faith---Sept. 5, 1909-Excluded W.M. DUDLEY--------Sept. 21, 1897---Ordained as deacon-May 13, 1906 Loffie SPENCE------Sept. 21, 1897---Ordained as deacon?------------by Death F.M WADE-----------Sept. 9, 1900----Ordained as deacon? G.W. ABBOTT-Oct. 9, 1904-Ordained as deacon-Sept. 3, 1910-by letter May 13, 1906 Clyde DUDLEY-------Oct. 14, 1906----Proof of Faith-----------------Excluded Jake SUTTON--------Oct. 14, 1906----Proof of Faith J.D. SUTTON--------Sept. 29, 1907---Proof of Faith Levi SANDERSON-----Sept. 29, 1907---Proof of Faith Floyd SPENCE-------Oct. 13, 1907----Proof of Faith Chauncy COX--------Oct. 3, 1909-----Proof of Faith Joe JACKSON--------Sept. 9, 1912----Proof of Faith Burrel JACKSON-----Sept. 9, 1912----Proof of Faith-----------------by Death Jake? WALLER-------Sept. 9, 1912----Proof of Faith-----------------by letter MEMBERSHIP, May 13, 1906 FEMALES Eliza JACKSON------Nov.21, 1904-----Letter--------May 1908---------Death Kate M. JACKSON----Nov. 21, 1904----Letter--------Sept. 1910-------by letter Alice JACKSON------Sept. 21, 1897---Proof of Faith Mildred JACKSON----Sept. 10, 1905---Letter--------July 1910--------by letter Wealthy C. SUTTON--Dec. 16, 1894----Letter-------------------------By Death Doris? O.? HERRING-Nov. 21, 1894----Letter--------July 25, 1915----Letter Wilmouth E. SUTTON-Sept. 21, 1897---Proof of Faith-July 20, 1915---Letter Rebecca SUTTON-----Sept. 18, 1904---Proof of Faith Ada MOSELEY--------Sept. 10, 1905---Letter--------July 20, 1915----Letter Mary S. TAYLOR-----Nov. 21, 1894----Letter Olive TAYLOR-------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter Susan T. TAYLOR----Dec. 2, 1894-----Letter Minnie E. TAYLOR---June 16, 1895----Proof of Faith------------------Death Alice WALLER-------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter--------------------------By Death Mary ARNETT--------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter Eugenie ELLIS------Nov. 21, 1894----Letter---------March 1909-------By Death Mollie WALLER------Sept. 21, 1897---Proof of Faith------------------By Letter Anna HILL----------Sept. 21, 1897---Proof of Faith-Oct. 3, 1912-----By Letter Lena HILL----------Sept. 9, 1900----Proof of Faith------------------By Letter Mary GRADY---------Dec. 18, 1898----Letter Anna DUDLEY--------Dec. 18, 1898----Proof of Faith-July 25, 1915----Letter Lucy WADE----------Sept. 9, 1900----Proof of Faith Maude ABBOTT-------Oct. 9, 1904-----Proof of Faith-Sept. 3, 1910----By Letter Flora SUTTON-------Sept. 20, 1898---Proof of Faith Myrtle GRADY-------May 13, 1906-----Proof of Faith Myrtle SUTTON------Nov. 12, 1905----Proof of Faith Janie SPENCE-------Nov. 12, 1905----Proof of Faith Mamie DUDLEY-------Sept. 29, 1907---Proof of Faith Dora DUDLEY--------Sept. 29, 1907---Proof of Faith Ruth Sutton CAULEY-Sept. 29, 1907---Proof of Faith Bessie Sanderson HAWKINS-Sept. 29, 1907-Proof of Faith Ida GRADY----------Oct. 13, 1907----Proof of Faith Elcy SANDERSON-----Dec. 7, 1907-----Proof of Faith-June 9, 1918?----Letter C.E. TAYLOR--------Oct. 1910 Van JENKINS--------Oct. 1910 S.H. JONES---------Oct. 1910 Bessie DUDLEY------Oct. 1910 Dallas JONES-------Oct. 1910 Margaret JACKSON---Oct. 1910 Ethel SUTTON-------Oct. 1910 Janey JONES Chloe SANDERSON----Oct. 1, 1911-----Proof of Faith END OF RECORDS
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