The New York Herald Newspaper, February 28, 1870, Page 4

4 @ows gicamed on the devotess. bares of melody from organ or choir gladdened their ears! Ne voice of preacher -distarbed the profound silence thas reigned supreme over all. Casting # glance tothe right we beboid the fair, How demure she expres. sion ou the face of the lovely blonde o} ie! Her eyes are castdown. The shadow of mile Ais across the dunpled ebeex. Now ne sitly raises the cowncast cyes and shoot @ roguisi glance from tue bine depths at (at sedate looking young man on tne other side. ‘They seem to say, “Oh, oruel custom that divides us, why can- not I come to tace?’ How plain everything jooks! The white oak seats, the white walla, unre- Neved py paint, add to the general simplicity, Sud- denly the silence 18 broken, It is the voice of one of sue winiatera, The epiit has moved him. Wiih aiirting eloquence he exhorts bis hearcrs. He pre- sents (Oo tem the various doctriues of their faith. Ho beaps argument upon ment to sustain the dogmas he brings forward. His voice, now raised to its highest key, #eems to sing. Anon he (alls into the colloquial tone, the antithesis of the vocal. He concludes With ® peroration of such force, sucu earnesiuess, that bis hearers are deeply impressed. Then silence once more, minutes elapse. Auother brouer rises, He recapituintes the principal points of bis predecessor's discourse. He fifitshes. Another tem minutes of sence, Tien # soft Tusue, like the stirring of dead leaves, ‘f'n ineet- jug ts over; the congregation break up. ‘he hawks and doves mingietreely r. Whatlovely faces are seen then! Assurediy beauty seen to be one of ‘whe chief attributes ef the lovely Quakeresses. Among the principal members of this congrega- ton are Mr. Samuel Willie's, the wealthy morciant; Mrs. Maria Mitcuell, tue astronomer o! Vassar Col- Jege; Mr. Jonathan Tuorne, Mra. i. Haydock, Mr. David 8. Rrown, the mercha:.t; W. U. Macy aad family, Charles A. Macy, Mr. Howard Wright, Mise Haight, Mr. Charles Haight, Miss Wilets, Miss Wright Miss Corlies, Mr, Robert stration. CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION. Pontpouement of the Revelations of New Tork by Gaslight—EKternity of Murai Iniluonce— Kloqueat Sermon by Rev. Dr. Thrall. Owing to the fearful inclemency of tho weather Jas! evening neither the bulk of the congregation of Uns church Bor che numerous promoters and sup- porters of the Midnight Mission were presen: to hear the interesting revelations which the presiient iatended to make relative lo the recovery of fallen women from their evil courses and the mauy singular agencies employed by those wo ave organized this mission by gasiught, The lecture was oxpected to show the extent and ravages of the Social evil as well as the success of those engaged in combatting it. The gloom of the bleak, wintry storm Which suroaded the city threw its penumbra within the ebureh, and seemed to inieusify the devotion of the sinil congregation, After alluding to the inevitable postponement for Two weoks of the subject he had intended, to treat be took his text irom the Epistie of St. Paul to the He- “brews, Xt, 4—And by it he being dead yet apeaketh.”” He said the text referred to Abel. He was dead more than four thousand years when Paul Wrote, yet he lefts memory belind him more eto- quent thar words. ihat fact, be held, showed that the idueace of mural worth aud spiritual action were cternal. Despite the disintegra- oa which coutmually took piace in the materia! social and poiitical order, the infuence of man’s thoughts and words and acta were felt, and, being feit, were living influences. ‘I'he last words of Dauiel Webster, “1 stil live,’ were as beautiful as true, aud the nation secmed to understand this When it adoptea them for nis monument. Shaks- peare, wh ‘ved, belonged to Eugiand—now he Was nol ig ne belonged to the Whoie World. 50 tt was also with the: political wisdom of Wasiingt n, LOO. eatthy towns conten’! for Homer deni, b which Homer ving begg'd his bread. Turnimy to the natural order, the trees, wh were (he bin 0} the forest by the weal(n agu ux their fouage, they weve much moc va 'y Were levelled Witu the earin, ‘ihe) 1 their grandeur in the vast variety of use- TU ana beatitiui Shapes bo Which Luey were turned Wuen {asuioned and polished vy the hands ot the artist. It was so with the Christian. Luther was not dead, Neither was Raikes uor tle Martyo, A little book read by Kichard Baxter caused him to give to the world his imestimaoie Tyoughts; and These Thoughts io turn, twenty-iive years alter they And as regarded tomer-- had leit the press, caused Doddridye Wo com pose we beautiful Well known hymus which go by his bame, I[t was these hyoins Vhat thirty years later on awoke the soui of philuataropy to a marvellous pitch of energy In Wiltam Wilberforce, Tne stories of “The Poor Alrican” and the “Dairywan's Daughter” wrougut lopwnerable couversions, amony vtlicrs that ol a noted worldly curate iu the Isle of Wight, who be- came an apostle later on. ‘Ihe m&u Who wrote “tere | ay ine down to Bleep,” never dreamed how many dread and holy thoughls these siuaple words would afterwards awaken. Noting dies in the material order, Bodies grow aod decay but become disintegrated only to com- bioe with oiler substances and Lolorm new shapes. Fvery bowls, nay, every atom, avecied every other, mo matter how genial, or gentic, or wnieit its influ- ence. A pebbis thrown into a lake produced a circle, which was the pareut of others, that widened tll they covered iis whole ex: panse. Aud in the morat worla tt was tne @ame. Lyvery thought, every word, every avt had an induence abu etlect which survived long after nin who guve it birth had passed away. As there was uo anuthilacion im the world, there was no isolation. Veter, in running quickly to she sepulchre, did not observe that he vrougit Jobo with him. Wheu the sposties sang in the prison at Philippi they did not dream they were couveriing ie olher prisoners, Shough that was the result. Hence the reyere preacher, iu choice and appropriate lauguage, ex- Rorted tits beavers to bear in mind the truth and they would not be likeiy to treat lightly tie respoa- sibilities of their words and decua. LyAic HALL SERVICES. A Large Attendance in Unpleasant Weather— “Keligion: What Is It, and What is It For¢t?—sermon by Rev. Mr. Frothingham. The threatening aspect of the heavens yesterday Torenoon moderated somewhat the devotional ardor of those who are accustomed to associate good weather with good works, Its influence, howevgr, had no effect upon the truly pious who love reilgion Tor its own sake aud would not shrink irom even a greater sacrifice than that of solied attire or bodily aiscorafort to testify their Mdelity ta its service. vunctualiy at balf-past ten o'clock the Rey. 0. B. Frothingham’s congregation assembled at their place of worship, Lyric Hall, Sixta avenae, and in such goodiy numbers that soon after the commence- ment of the services no more thaa standing room could be obtained in any part of the nail, The opening exercises being conciwied the preacher commenced hig sermon, the subject of which was, as previousiy annonnced, “Religion: what is itand what is it for?’ He did aot care to ask Why Oue nan Was a Romanist, anoier a Pres- vyterian or a Protestant, In this age, devoted so tn- vensely to business, science and the arts, men were beginning to ask, Why bave we religion at all? Way speculate about afature Ife, with such # palpable existence all around us? Why go outside of this world’s natural limitations? Why ‘all this taik about trinity and unity and election aud predestination’ Betolding the Catnolle, the Episcopalian and other forms of worship, which were ali litany, genuflexion ana cere- mony, was it strange that matter-of-iact men would say, ‘If this is religion let us have no religion!” In Rome every day bad tts saint aud some days taany saints. He would declare ‘vetter have no Sabbath than Sabbath every day.’ ‘ihe ques. tion was, “What i real region?” The word nad three definitions. The first was derived from Latin word, which signified ‘to read over’’—to read over and over again te same prayers aud htanies ng sameress. This was the Catholic defl- he second, which also was of Latin origin, meant ‘to bind again’-to bind, as 1% were, a split between God and man. And here another cause of distrust in ali ceremonial religion was begotten tn reflective iminas., Ceremonial reiigion was Ly pocrisy, and people woul say let us have po religion at ail Af this is to be ours, “Almost every form of worship ‘Was superstition, Every religious man was credu- lous. ‘The preacher again glanced at the present copdition of Kowe, to Wich ali eyes were NOW #0 In- ly turned. He told of its lawsand ite wirelie governmont being made and administered by priests: yet the common people were poor, Leggars swarmed and superstition hardly expressed tie darkness of their minds. This was trying to send people to heaven. It were better wo try to make men a iittie happier. He gave anotuer tilustration of ceremonial religion. During the cate pingue tn Hngiand a day was appointed for general prayer in the cuurches, (0 the end that the calamity might be stayed. It were better to attempt some practical preventive than weary Heaven with their suppiications, and when the latter were found ineffectual 1t were time to do away with the Estaplished Unurct. Why should de- nominationa! work stand in the way of human work? ‘They ali had scen@ picture in the #shop windows rep. resenting an impossiole rock to the midat of a raging sea, Upon this rock was erected an impossible cross, and clinging thereto was a woman in ap tmpossivio attitude, Tue woman appeared weil to do, though scanuly draped, but why was she represented in thw absurd manner? iliustrate tue casting of one’s sins and sorrows on the cross, to portray faith 4m ceremonial religion. and religious trust In Christ. At were better to strive for moral improvement, learn more Of nature and our feliow men, and unravel the mysteries of Ife. The third definition of religion bad also @ Latin root; it meant “to loosen,’ and this was his religion. It elevated the mind, expanded the intellect and freed us from the bondage of the ons. Young men and women were under this ny . In youth, when all things lookea bright, the plood leaped hotiy in the viens. People could not escape from this charming bondage, ita chaims were of gold. Virtue threw open her gaies in vain; young men and women would still cast shemssives away Wm an ecstacy of delight. Here, as olaewhore throughout bis discourse, the speaker showed his thorough Kuowledge of nature w ali her workugs, and de- Clared that religion was the S018 corrective of sin. Religion was the only deliverance, and tt inust come through the imagination, Religion put the question to the imagination, Wall you choose life or tie con- trary? On the one site is neaven, if you will have iu; Om the other hell, tf you will have it. Religions which did not make (ue beart light and the mina cheerful and happy wore not religions at all, ‘The Protestant aud Catholic Churches did that for many persons, and he liked them Lor It, Not 30 Calvinism—it was cold, cheerloas and uapcomforting. ‘Tue religioa which ministors to human nature aud warms man’s heart was the best religton. ‘The speaker ciosed with an eloquent appeal to his hearers, reminding énem that religton heid out toe glorious promise, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and 1 will give you rest.” it is strange that one 90 ea! oF to conven- tonal traummele a8 Mr, Frothingham wil not abandon the custom of withbolding from his hear- ers tue chapter and verse, uf any, from whton he takes bis text. Those compelied to stay away from church, baviug heard the text from some who had atiended, might derive beaeiit by studying its mean- ing in the famny Bible, while the Sunday traant, oid or young, detected tm ignorance of it, would be detectod uals in his Indifferende to the subject of “religion——what {t 18, and what It ts for.” ZION COLORED CHURCH. The Congregati the Ministor a SermonThe African Aristocracy, Costumes, Manaers and Piety. This aristocratic tompie of our colored brothers was not so well Milled yesterday morniog as tt often is, but those that were preseut most ably repre- Ssenied the unfortunate absent. ‘The congregation of this church comprises the most wealtay, refincd and .aristocratio of the colored “population of the city, and taeir manners and dress fully show how proudly conscious of tt thoy are. A common person, whether wilte or black, will fad go piace in this church, for tue moro elegant will crowd others oul. It ts the Grace church of Africa, and the great Brown find: @ fit co-representative In the person of their dig: fled yellow sexton, with the only difference that he Moves much fasier, The tntortor of the church is plain dnd neat, light colors being mostiy uaed tn its decorations, which, besides veing always clean, shows off the people to great advantage. ‘The congregation ts decidedly a well dressed one, for the most expensive stiks and veivets form the materials of tue tadtos’ dresses, a3 tue Ones of broad- cloths clothe the men, Upon eutering the building this 18 Observed ac once, and there is nothing in view vo disunguish the worshippers trom @ Fifth avenuy congregation but the uncovered neads of the men. ‘The ladies display much good taste in their toilets, but lew bright or gay colors being seen. A subdued quietness prevailed, which gave @ more elegant con! ensemble than the brilliant coloré seen else- where. All seemed to be partial to deep pur- pie stik and black velvet, and these are the materials above all obners Which wil show to advantage a dark skin and peariy teeth. Many of ciese costumes were heightenod in elect by w aiumond pin or eardrops, and Were such as any lady might envy. ‘The ladies Weartng them were tn many cases rich, and were looked upon most admiringly by their sable companions. The male portion vi the congregation are no lcs deserving of notice. Most of tuem wero large, broad-shouldered men, such 44 Would put to shame the puny little follows thatare found to moat aristocratic churches. The leading men of the church are in general persous of considerable weaith and stauding in their own commmuualty, such as Samuel J, Howard, of Brooklyn, president of the voard of trustees; James Pierce, who resides at Fiushing during the summer ai hts country house, but at this time of tue year in the city; Joun Jones, of Corneiia street, is ulso one of their leading men, and the possessor of consider- able property. At thts church will be found the Wealthy colored peopie Of tae city, and together they form a smali aristocracy, wich is just as ex- clusive and severe in its laws and regulations ay any oiher clique im the erty. ‘The pastor is Key. Wililam 7, Butier, The reve read geaticuan is & tali mua of gentiemauly exte- rior, With a complexion much lighier than that of Inost of his congregation. He has a good voice and @ pieasaut delivery, and hia sermon was listenod to most attentively. It was the first of a course which he proposes (0 preach o@ the same suLject, “sell. consecration," taking for bia text Second Corinthian, chapter eight, firth verse--"And this they did, not 4s We hoped, bat Orst gave their own seives to the Lord and unto us by the will of God.’’ ‘To tcad a true aud holy itfe and to prepare ourseives for the joy hereafter we should consecrate our- selves to God and become part of Him, ag to be acceptable the surrender must be entiro; we musi do away with trifles and worldil- ness And consecrate our whole !ives to His service, It you have received this consecration you need not tell it, You need not say “1 am sanctified,’’ for it wiil be plainly seen by your outward actions. Kin- dred spirits do come together, and, considering this, their walks will be such that tae world will see their uoliness and respect it, Buy don’t tamk that this consecration and devotion to the Church will save you from sin, for it will not. Siu is # failing of the body and as long as we are in this state we are apt to fall, All temptation should be resisted, und, Luough the opposition to goodness was gre: those who had been consecrated wouid tind thi veives strong to resist, and would grow stronger and stronger (ili they won,the battle. The Aposties say We should seek one degree of grace after another till giory at last crowos What grace has begun. Christ has also told us to consecrate ourseives to Him. We shouid obey iim; aud what happiness it will be, as we leave tilts life, to be able to say-—1 have kept the have given up ail, anu will now so ¢ the toot of the erosé, WELSH METHODIST CHURCH. Importance of Revelation—Sermon by the Rev. W. Koberts. - the Weish language were heid in this evening, when tae Kev, W. Roperts, who was formerty pastor of the chureh, but tow located in Pennsylvania, preached the sermon. He selected his text [rom Deuteronomy, xxiXx., 20:—"'The secret things belong unto God, but those things which are revealed belong unto us gad to our children forever, that we may do all the works of this law.? Tbe preacher remarked that the act of giving was a manifestation of govd feeling and affection on the part of the giver, though it,did not follow as@ rule that the recipient entertained pre- cisely the same feeiings.. The giver of most things spoken of in the text (and which it is declared, whea revealed, belongs unto them) loved themwith an ever- jasting love, and no person who dented that love could be a Christian or partake of the secret things of tho Lord. God would give thom the gifts of the Spirit, which was long sutfering, wentieaess, meek- ness, temperance, &c. Me couid reveal unto them His Jove and testify unto them tne glorious work of the atonement and the everlasting care wiih waich their Almugnty Creator watched over them. God could by His presence aud blessings make [Mis children nappy and glad in the Lord’s vineyard. What was the design of God in thus dealing witn them? Simply that he desired to give aud confer on them the blessing and happiness of man before the tall, God extended all mercies aud fayors through the everlasting love Which permeated and extended through the wifole extent of neaven. They knew that without earthly existence it was essential to the proper maimtenance of order and good feel- the ‘nelr The ing that codes of law_ should be formed und rigidly adiered to, The could not Jive in a secular sense without jaw, judictousiy ministered by justices. So ii Was witu God. Hie law was absointe and well detined, and it would be well for them to ovey it, ahd render all the homage to their God of which they were capable. If they negiecved so to do good feeling and order could not eXist between God and His creatures here below. The congregation has bben for some time without aregular pastor, but the Rey. Lowell Howell, of Cincinnati, will undertake charge of (he pastorate 0 April. The church is tu ap extremely dourisl- ing condition aad ts well alteaded. THE SHRINE OF THE MABDALENS. Services Yesterday at “st. Kits? Mission—Nuctens of an Order of B Magdulens—Tho G Exercises aud of Their Participators—Pie ef Kit Burns and Proximity of His The usual Sanday afiernoon exercises were taken up yesterday at three o'clock, under most unpromis- ing auspices, at the “dog pit mission” ta Water street, At the opening the face of things iooked desolation itself, Tiere were not more than twenty persons prosent, incinding the usual importation from Willamsbuarg, and each one of the twenty wore & wov-begone icicie appearance, most uninvit- ing and uninspiring to look at on a leaden-skied frosty afternoon, Thix latter remark doea not in- clude the conductors of the exercises and of tho in- stitution. They were all ruddy, or sleek, or insinu- ating, and wore that look of conscious self-rigut- eousuess which a diligent attendance at prayer Incetings 1s 40 well calculated to develop. In regard to the class of persons present, 1 would bo dimcult to make any general assertion and uuia- teresting to enter upon their personal history. The only word in the language which would come near. est to describing tiem in buik ts nondescript. and & detail would teil of two or three vagabomds clad in the latest style of tne froe and easy, who winked st the doorkeeper when @ «trong polat was made in the exhortation, and was accompanted by the usual grace and expressiveness of demounteative elocu- thoi , the wink, of course, boing interpreted to mean, ‘We tellers are too wide awake for that, an wasn't born yesterday,” which levity toe janitor by nO Means reciprocated, combating the Varioty of Dog Pit destructions arising from. aring faces upon the window panes of fina bl ‘young urehing with & surprising admixture of equanimity and gravity. ‘There werd @ fow lumber and long shoremon proven’ and ove or two 80ns of St, Crispin whose nervons tem- barrages has vot been improved by their fodeutars ‘nbits, and who at any time may, without mucl moral responsibility, be the source Of # sensation tn social life, AS ® matter of course Water aireet con- tributed tts quota to the gathering. They were howover, evidentiy “b'hoys’ of gre 10u8 habite, and not unknown to the ‘dog pit’ in the days of its ory, and now Known at street corners, and possi- vy to the police, They entered with a leer which defined their object, aud enjoyed the fervid choras of “amens’ and the devout groaning of the godly with the rojlicking recklessness which oaly Youth can command, @ original object of this ‘piission—to reclaim fallen Women—had two rep- resentatives, They camo from Brooklyn with Mrs, Siith and are to form the nucleus of the Howe, ‘Throughout they Comported themsecives with attention, and seem not to be women of the type upon whom every opportunity is lost, Two other ignorant, Gabby, slatiern looking femaics of rather mature years entered the lecture room weep- jog, Bnd at the close of the exercises some of tho most zealous of the brethren went to “labor? with @ view to their being “convicted” and converted frou the error of their ways. It did not become apparent that they were quite prepared fof the minisirations fendered with #0 much unction and earnestness to ern, Among the spectators was tho devout Kit Burns, iu a new pilot overcoat and one of Knox's best hats, who, though only in fur the tail end of the ceremo- nfal, managed to make ® minute and interested sur- voy of the “new wine’ retatied on tho site of aceues where victors bied and ‘*Trojans’’ yelped, while bru- tal butlies howled, and Kis attended both to business and pleasure, except when the excise haw intervened its accommodating Sabbath prescriptions. After the opening hymn was sung, the Rev. Mr. Horan made an extemporary prayer of # voluminous character, in which, among other suppiications, he vouchsaled that as ‘the waters of life wore not sur- rounded by any social and conventioua! disabilities, they might be permitied to drink them.” After tm- the mission might @trengthened to oear it out to the end, sald he would talx to them from Acts, pel ity, Capabliity and errantibtity of tue heart of ‘The Ife of man as rule wasa iio, Meu sinoed aud feit tae unhappiness of a life of sin, yet Lbey suck to it generally, with tne idea that they were not much Worse than others, forgetting that the Al- mighty looked upon each person aud judged lis acts individually. In terms strong wiih the feclings of emotion the speaker urged upon his hearera the coasity of being “convicted,” because after conv’ Uon he anticipated the.vest results trom auy Conver- sion which took piace. ‘The ‘bar’ next door was to full biast, eards and comicality aiternating with ‘boteled bocr’’ for the beguilement of those who preferred Mat corner o¢ Kit bura’s establisument, BROCKLYN CHURCHES. PLYMOUTH CHURCH. Outside Plymouth Ci h and the Worldly Gossip Within—Tho Talk Before the Service on the Current Events of the Previous Pay—A Solomn Sermon on Preparation for Death, A well-dressed crowd clustering around the entrarces, & policeman here and there to keep order, gentlemen with their hata oif at the entrance to every aisle, crying aloud, “On!y pewholders allowed toenter at present;” “Please stand back, Madam, and allow seatholders to enter; thon a policeman’s voice to well-dressed crowd, “Ploase keop in line; don’t block up the entrance.” ‘Tnts 13 what may be seen every Sunday outside Plymouth church. It 1a too much like the vestibule of a place of amusement to strike an intending worshipper with any feeling of awe or sense of worship, and it has had its effect upon tho reguiar attendants, who enter in a non- Chalant manuer and take thelr seats with the same sany Jroid as though they were seated in the parquet at Tammany or the Tucitre Comtque. The conversations of these regular attendants, as they walt for the filling up of the pews, 13 not carried on 10 & soto voce tone, for the clatter of chairs open- ing ond Closing, the rustiing of dreases, and the bevel of sound at the church eutrances give @ license to foud talking, Yesterday morning this talk among the seared worshippers, at this interval, was very worldly. Oue gentieman rewarked to a lady who Sut near to him that pothing bad yet been heard of the City of Boston. ‘How sad)"’ sald the lady. ‘Yea, but I see that anovher steamer has been sent to see if they can see anything of her.” A seafaring look- ing man, who looked like the skipper of one of the line steamers, leaned over from the other pew, and mquired of tho gentleman ‘df the City of Boston nad been heard of.” “No; but I see by the HERALD this moraing, that another steamer lias been sent after her, and that Captain Judkins, of the Scotia, thinks that she is encountering Lead winds off tho coast of Ireland.” Seafariug man shook his head and turned it towards the orchestra. The lady ures spoken to then informed the gentiomau near her thacshe always felt very nervous about missing jeamers, and that it was fourteen years this mouth sce a steamer went down that bad a friend of hers on board. and that this iriend was @ genticman holding @ distinguished consular office. By this time the pews in the nelghvorucod were diling up, and arustie of silk in au adjoining one idicaced tue presence Of ladies. There was @ hearty revogai- tion of our lauy by the other, ana a dulcel voice said, *‘You were not at the sociable the other night.’ “No,” replied the lady, “Que of the girls was sick end could not go. Was so and so there?’ ‘vu, yes, and Miss —— was with Dim." A telegrapic glance in each other's eyes that seemed to convey & world of Meaning, accompanted by the remark that “I guess thavsa natch; [ tuougnt that was iixed up some tune.” Two middio aged gentlemen Wita calculsiing Countenances greet each omer by # shake of the Aaud and one says to the other, “1 didu’t see you again yeaterday. . missed you. Gold went down again | see.” “Yes,"" ‘was the reply; ‘it’s going to par, { expect, and I hear that specie payments are to begin ar once’? This ‘gold’? talk is suopped by @ young lady of large proportions, Wao plants herself in tue front of them lo the opposite pew, The Wall street gentlemen look at one another and both glauce at the siupen- dous blonde chignon, and they wutsper audibi: enough to those near them, “Uncommonly weil buils ap that.” ‘Then tuere Id # hush of the talk, for the first notes of the overture are struck oy the’ or- ganist, Mr. Zundeil. ‘The overture piayod, two solos are sung ftom “The Messiah,’ one by Aliss ‘ihursby (‘J'aou Didst Not Lead Vy Holy Oue to See Corruption”), which Was suag With considerable expression, and did yery mmuco to subaue the worldiineas of many of tuose who had come ostensibly to worsip, ‘Then followed ae chorus by- the ehoir, ‘Arise and Let thy Light biune. ‘Phe sermon was one of Mr. Beevher's beat efforts. ‘The subject was ‘timely Preparation tu Meet God in the Olwer Life.” The text was taken trom the Gospel of St, Matthew, xii. 33, ‘Take ye heed, watch and pray, for ye know not what the Lime is.” After ® short mtroduction, in which the teachings of Christ in St, Matthew's Gospels XXiv., XXYV.,, and the texts are harmonize aud saowa to ve pro- phecies as to tae destrucuon of Jerusalem, with ad- Inenitions to all mankind to live in a preparedness for death, Mr, Beecher at once turacd to the praetical phase of subject. Alen did not love to think about death, because they are not on good terms with deatu, Death was not in Itself verrible, for death was physically, to tue majority of persons, ho more painful than the falling to sleep of a child. i wil the pain felt tn death generaily was put upon @ man in health he would be ashamed to compiain of it, Death, when it came navurally to man, was ag ihe gentle breeze that biew Lue ripe fall fraited appie Lo the ground, it did not need the stroug gust of wind to snake it to the ground; the gentle breeze was quite sufficient. It was nol, taerefore, the phy- sical pain that was to be feared. Death had its dreaded form irom the reflections of men as to tae future, A man sald, “What Is to becoine of my children, my estate, my infiuence ia controlilng ail around me and keeping all things right?’ Mea die; ace struck down suddenly; their chiidren, ettuer bY tue folly or diskonesiy of executors or ageuts, are jet to. fight their way in the world as he bas done and are successful—more than they would bave been had they pressed the patrimony, We come to see every day that Wen are Dot so necessary to the world as they tulnk; they leave us, and their departure, except im rare instances, scarcely makes & crease on the sur- face of the globe. These men dreaded death pecause it forced them into 8 consideration of their relation- ship with God, aud tney sat tn judgment with them. selves on that relationship. Yet these reflections, if adjusted on 8 right basis, gave a steadying element to the life of man in its relationship to Wod, and was therefore to be commended in that regard. it was folly for man to put off this preparation until the dying hour. In a majority of instances men made a Wise provision for the future, but none for tmmor- tality. No man bad any right to leave that preparation to chance, and it was a lose of seli-respect to any man to do it Men did pot ao this to their fellow men. ‘they did not ilve in utter disregard of ail that thelr fellow men commended as right, and then ask them to receive them at the end or Sherr life as though they had lived a life that was lovely, pure and of good report. They would be ashamed to do that to one another, and that ‘Was what they did to God, their greatest benefactor, every day of their lives, They said effect thoy would follow out their smbitions, carry out their desires, dishonor God, live in defiance of his ce: mauds, and then they would turn a lucky corn sane aha good oad ae world a i out of the nexttoo, Aman wh gt Wag @ cheat, a fraud, & tilaerable iugrats, Who tried to Parpeis @ deceit upon his Maker. ‘Then there were physical reaso Why this policy was sutcidal to their totentions clalming peace in their dying hour. Men generally died under # cloud, Without @ consciousness of reason, and they slipped off this mortal coil as when men slip away into death when the ship sings, Sir. Beecher then gave his own exporience at death- bed scencs, where he had met men who lived lives. of disrepute, who acknowledged all that was urged upon them, They signified their belief in the great writers of the gospel, but their moral sense was be- dimmed end iy did not tally to the couvieuous of ns of NEW YORK HERALD, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1870.—TRIPLE SHEET. thelr intellect, and their pervous system was go be- numbed that it was uttorly unable to make any preparation for dying. a few remarks ignoring the ides that paredness of death implied # carrying about wish us ll the insignia of death—but that while it was like the under Cone of tho ocean to those who lived near the sea, always heard in life, yet givin gloriously triumphant foeling—he paused, Sadience geomea to expect the announcement of 1 dying prayer. Mr. Boesher then with mach feeling and great earnestness said how humbled he folt when hestood before that dense congregation and remembered that he was an ambassador betwoen two worl ond knew that to many he was addressing tt wor be easier to get the atone at his feet to admire and appreciate the fowers on his stand, in for him to men from impurity to purity, ‘rom wickedness to goodness, from deviltry to goditness. They heard the cruth, and there were many who were trembling as they beard him, ana who longed for @ forco force and place them where re them be. ‘AS an Ami- A lonainaiy, oarnostiy ans hort prayer the congregation sung the bymo Rook of Ages, oloft for me, and the solemn tmpression the sermon had made was very perceptibie in the eingiug of the byma. CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY. Observance of Lont—Fasting and Prayer— Charity, Prominent Church Members. Yesterday morning there wasa very stylish a4- sembiage of worshippers gathered within the walls of that elegant architectural edifice, the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity, corner of Montague and Clinton streets, Brooklyn. The pews in the nave and galleries were occupied by represen- nse would hi bassador in Christ's stead, besought them to turn to After @ well known tatives, belies, beaux, fathers and mothers of families” of the first people of the community of the City of Churches, who either bent their heads in devotional etiquette upon the backs of the pews in front during the recital of the litantes and prayers, or as they felt’ inclned knelt down in a spirit of becumtpg humility. ‘Tae beantifui variegated hues of the costly windows of the building, which artistically portray leaaing incidents of Scriptural history; shed @ modified and somewhat sombre light throughout the interior which im- parted a grave and austere effoct tothe counte- nances of all within, The choir attached to the church acquitted itself admirably and evidently to tue satisfaction of the devotces in the body of the church, many of whom strained their eyes and turned around to giance up at the choristers during the rendftion of the musical part of the service, Rey. Charies Hi. Hail, the rector, oMclated, as. sisted by bis curate, After the Epistie and Gospel for the day bad been read, the rector agnounced that next Wednesday—being Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Leat—would be a fast day. By this was meant a day of strict fast—abstinénce from the use of all food until atter sunset. He had, for nis part, conscientiously believed always that rauchsa fast should be kept in the spirit and letter of the ordi- nance and had refrained from the tasting of any food whatever on that dar. There was no absolute necessity, however, for those who did not feel dis- posed to deny themselves in this matter. There was no fast upon persons under twenty-one years, nor 6uch as work hard or are in delicate health; but to ail good people wno could refrain from even a glues of water and spend Ash Wedoesday in fasting. mortification and in prayer be would advise them to do so, This was # period of much sin and crime, and it would be well for ali to unite in an effort to give greater practice to their, professions of religion. se spoke on this theme ab some ieagth, and stated that each morning during Lent services would be held in that churen a8 early a3 seven o'clock. If this time was too variy for some people, these latter could attead later devotions, at half-past eight o'clock. So much was said upon the subject of self-denial in this practical sense that tt was plainly evident by the upturaing of eyebrows, the surprised glances of the young people and the furried whispers of the older heaas, that they hardly reaiized auch seeming austerity. ‘the text of the sermon, preached by Rev. Mr. Hall, was taken from St. iaul's Epistie to the Corin- thians:—“Unarity never fadvth.” ‘Ine word charity was equivaient to the word love tn tts definition and true sense, It was the portrayal by man in hs every thought, word and action affecting his fellow man of the divine example set. us by our Sayiour; it wi in fact, @ unity of the wvnuren of God, in which all mere worldly or material toterests were sunk and made subservient to the one great end of gaining the kingdom of heaven by obedience to divine teach- ings, The reverend,speaker argued upon this virtue and precept with much eloquence, and occupled the pulpit more than half an hour. He reads nis sermons from manuscript, has a fine appear- ance and is possessed of a Clear voice, being quite @udibie in any part of the building. Along the prominent members of this congrega- tion wao Were present with their familics at the ser- Vice yesterday were ex-Heaitu Comunis: er Crane, Mr. Conklin Brush, ex-Presidgat of the Mecuanics’ Bank of Brooxiyas Mr. J. W. Boxtor, of tho firm of Chauncey, Presidept of the Mect ca’ Bank; Mr. Hosea Webster, Mr. P. Barnard, Mr, Willtam B. Leonard and a host of other prominent profeastonal and business men of Brooklyn, ELM PLACE CONGREGATIONAL CHURGH. “Truc Independence ”=—The Frivollttes, Ex- travagance and Errors ef the Perlod—Ser- mon by Kev. Dr, Heury Powors. Brookiyn possesses @ nuraber of eloquent minis- ters, gentlemen a:ike distinguished for moral as weil as intellectual charactoristios, and who not only adorn the profession, but add interest to our sister city’s greatpess. Among the prominent of these is Key. Heary Powers, D. D,, who happily combines the most genia! social man- ners with the highest qualities which grace a ciergy- man. This divine ty attracting a full share of popu- lar attention. He is bold aud independent tn nis views, original in his style of thought and expres- sion, attracts large audiences to his pulpit discourses, and sends men and women away from him better in many degrees. He is not merely a theologian nor a book-learned man, but he has turned the pages of the great volume of life, young as he ts, with no care- less hand, “ Yesterday morning one of the largest congrega- tions of the winter greeted Dr. Powers tn all the oie- gauce of dress which the season. dictates to the votaries of fashion. Every pew was filled, end this fa strictly trathful. The subyectof the pastor's dis- coursé was ‘True Independence,” I Corinthians, Vil, 23—*'B@ not ye servants of men.’ JHe explained tnat in early Christian times a large portion of the converts were poor, slaves even, being servants of men in tho «literal sense; yet ‘they could be ‘the Lord's freemen.” ‘There was an apparent con- tradicuon between these words and His address to His disciples. “If any man would be great among you let him be your minister.” The exhortations of the text have reference to two different things, ser- vice and servitude, which were admirably illustrated by the preacher by the case of Pilate, who, though chosen to administer Roman justice, was a slave to popular opinion, and gave over to death # “good man.’ ‘to be ‘servants of men’ was, in ali cases of right and wrong, to take the world’s and act on it rather — than opinion God's, The Christian was one Whose standard was higher than the world's. Some of the ways in which this servitude alliided to shows itself was in the customs of society—the fashions, dress and ex- travagance of the period, for instance. The caprices of fashion seem to be beyond control; taste is thing which will submit to no dictation, Extri gance in dress 18 apparently admitted, and being fostered into @ passion, goes on increasing with fearful rapidity, The splendor and magnificence of to-day becomes comparative poverty to-morrow. Tho lustre of ten thousand dollars’ worth of jewelry 13 pallid in the eyes of its possessor so soon as a fair rival displays twenty thousand dollars’ worth on her person. The two hundred doilar garment i# too shabby to wear/if brought mto juxtaposition with two thou dollar dresses; and so the weary mortal—ne whose exchequer is ex- pected to discount all draits earlier to his counting room and drudges later at his desk, ex- tends his business more boldly and speculates more Tashiy, contracts within closer limtts nis periods of relaxation or mental culture, until at last comes the dire crasa, the final end—vankruptcy of health or fortuae, What {s the reason, can you Tint mon are poor aud women thinnest 80 much do for dinuesdress That nothing's left to dress the dinner. - Dr, Powers closed with an earnest exhortation to ali thac they might “be the Lord’s freemen; that tt fehooves all to remember that “heaven ts for shose who don’t succeed on earth.’” FOURTH STREET UNIVERSALIST CHURCH. The Safe Ke of Treasure on Earth and the Holding of He ly Pearls—Sonmon by Rov. A. J. Canflold=A Hint on the Revee nue Question. Mr. Canfleld preached to a full charch in Wil- amsburg yesterday from IL, Corinthians, lv., 6, 7— “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of “aarkness, hath shined in our nearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jeaus Christ, But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us.” In explaining the text the eloquent young pastor sald that in the early ages riches were not the particular atm of life. Those who pastured ther flocks and herds on the broad domain were content with alife of simplicity; but (here never was a time when the value and rights of property were not respected. The ancients hid their ‘treasure, diamouds and precious siones {nm caves or buried i§ when wae prevailed; but in the course of time, as trade, commorce and dauking became 3 year |. edifice could be erected to the honor God, nooessitios, locks, keys and formidable vaulta were lavented to protect toe mulated treasure of the thritty. Tho treasure, Sowever, alluded to in tho toxt by St, Paut was ‘not of this kind. That was is of the knowledge of tho glory of cae more precious than or any other earthly The ea vessels alluded to as the receptacies of this treasure were the hearts and souls of mankind, All this treasure of faith in God was in carly ti embodied in written creeds, again in stately cathedrais and lately in humble Quaker meeting the hi heart is its proper receptacle aay all thi that are held sgored are sacred, so the estimation of the value of religion depends upon what you are willin: to do for it. ancient Jews were willing to give one-tenth of their incomes to their religious institu- tons; but no such willingness is exhibited by Chrts- =. If the members of this pociety were to follow of example of the Jews of old, and give one-tenth their incomes—not as they return them to the tax gatherer, however—for one ® new church and glory of to ef at ing centenary could be appropriately cele- “OLD” ST. ANN'S CHURCH. Sermen on Baptiom by the Rev. Webbe—The Choir. The recently eleotea pastor took for bis text John Al. 6:—“Exoept man be baptized with water and tho apirit he cannot enter the kingdom of heaven." The reverend gentleman alluded to the origin and end of baptism as superseding the Jewish ceremo- nial of circumcision, being the initiation into the Christian as circumcision was into the Hebrew Church, embodying in material form the fact of men being created to be the sons of God, and thus tang!- bly setting fortn the biessings of redemption. The sermon was very short, but a complete burst of elo- quer that fixed the rapt attention of @ numerous snd refined tn geod ‘The great.choir of more than Ofty voices sustained the beautiful Episcopal service with fine effect; but its effectiveness would be very materially increased if the present defective arrangement of the seats could be altered, Such a mass of singers must be seated before the organist, not behind him, This suggestion may be suMcient to Mr. Frank D. Snow, the eMoient manager of the choir. The progress of this new and successful musical enterprise will be watched with interest, CHURCH CHARITY FOUNDATION. Anniversary of the Long Island Sociovy—Re- port of the Board of Managers—Interost- ing and Gratifying Statistical Exhibit. The eighteenth anniversary of the Churoh Charity Foundation of Long Island was celebrated last even- ing in tne Church of the Holy Trinity, corner of Montague snd Clinton streets, Brooklyn, The Home for the Aged and Orphans, which 13 sustained by this great charity, 18 located on Herkimer street. There was quite a large congre- gation present last evening, despite the inclemency of the weather, and after the usual introductory church exercises Rev. Dr. Hall read the annual re- port of tne Board of Managers of the institu. tion. It appeared from this document that the receipts during the past year were $10,626 aud theexpenaitures $8,867; leaving a balance of $1,769. The Forbes iegacy ror the sustenance of aged men and women amounted to $30,055, an increase, and the building fund to $6,489, an increase of about $500. ‘thacasn balance of loans on oall or deposited at four per cent interest was $5,823. The report, which was @ very comprehensive document, called attention to the necessity of enlarging the in- stitution, increasing the comfort of the inmates and providing tor other classes Of poor persous. The point of development which the institution had reacned ten years ago remained Oxed now; but this tact, tne re- port asserts, does not signily a falling away so much as Itehows a setiled limit of development. In 1860 the treasurer reported the receipis‘of the charity at $10,292, against $10,636 during the past year, and $4,978 of the sum Collected in 1860 was paid for the building; but during the past year $1,460 was re. ceived from the benevolence of the State of New York. it appeared, further, from she report that there are now in the Home eighteen women and fifty orphans. At the conclusion of the reading of the report Rev. Dr. Senenck, rector of new dt. Ann’s church, preacued @ sermon on charity, selecting nis text Jrom the Epistle 01 St. Paul to the Galatians, vi., 10— “As we have therefore opportunity let us do good all men, espectaily unto them who are of the household of faith.” Toe discourse was an eloquent oae, in which the reverend gentleman tliustrated the principle, object and method of this charity. The congregation was dismissed with the benediction. MISCELLANEOUS SERV.CES IN BROOKLYN AND ELSEWSERE, Heary ‘NWODB. PRESBYTERIAN CHUACH. A flallowed Temple—Historic Reminisconces— Fashion—The Day of Judgment—Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Dickenson, Planted in the valley where s0 many boid Hes- sians fell—a valley of death for @ horae of rash invaders auring the war of 1776—surrounded by the grandest reminiscences that could render any place endearing to the patriotic heart, stands the Inwood Presbyterian church. It is a quaint-looking edifice, a wooden one, entirely unadorned. Vainly does ita humble spire compete in altitude with the towering, though leafless, poplars that encompass it, while behiad the building rise majestic crags which, could they speak, would tell of slaughter and unrelenting fary on the part of the British soldiers, The little church is erected on the spot where it is said Kuyphausen and his followers figured so very prominently. Now, considering that the locality— and @ more enchanting one in summer time could not be seen~is dotted with palatial mansions: that overlook the Hud- son, it might pe expected that the place of worship should be correspondingly magnificent in tts architectural construction. The Inwood Pres- byterian church seems to have been closed for half a century—seems, but one must not always judge by appearance. The congregation that assembied yes- torday within its sacred aisles was probably not sur- passed by any in the city im point of religious ear- nestuess and devotion, wealth and respectability, ged for ue matior of that, tn fashion itself, ‘The ‘ttendance Was limited to be sure, but that was evi- dently accounted for by the fact that, perhaps, more tnan one half of the regular members of the congre- gation spend the winter season in their city resi- dences, and consequently assemble in the churches here, The services commenced at halt-past ten o'clock. They were simple, fervent and appropriate, and were earnestly participated in by those present, By the way, the toilets of the ladies were remark. ably preity, and would have far outshone those of the beiles attending the fashionable churches of the metropolia. ee those occupying pews were Measri. James McCreery and faurily, Mr. John Stewart and the Misses Stewart, Captain Flewer and family, the Misses Perkins, of Washington Heights; Mr. and Mrs. Broadhead, Mr. Potter and the Misses Potter, Mr, J. M. Dykenson and family, Messrs. Miller, Byrne others. Tho congregation comprised Mauy of the élite of the nelghoorhood. fier the | preliminary exercises the Rey. Dr. Dickenson, the esteemed pastor, preached an eloquent sermon, which was no lesa marked by its clearness and theo- oe erudition than by ils elegance of diction and independent expression. The reverend gentleman selected his text Irom St. Paul's Epistie to the Ro- mans, containing @ reference to the day of judg- ment. St. Paul distinctly intimated that there was to bea day of judgment. Although the subject was referred to throughous tne Bible.tue words contained in the text were enurely suflicient to convince those who believed at allin Christianity. It was # point concerning wa.ch there could be no dispute. Several questions, however. arose upon the subject, but it was distinctly intimated that justice would be administered by Jesus Christ. ‘The reveremt geutle- man earnestly showed that the secrets of the heart would be judged on the last day—tie feelings, the desires, the passions and the motives by which they were actuated, He dilated upon the deceit, the seltishness, the impunity, affectedness and dis- honesty which, though unknown to the world, often characterized men’s actions. All those would be Judged, because they flowed from the hidden tooughts and impuises of the heart, Afver picturing in glowing terms the conscientiousness of following ia the righteous paths, notwithstanding the sneers and misconstructions of worldly-minded peopie, vr. Dickenson concluded by pointing out the great im- portance of being at all times prepared to appear before the great judgment seat. Alter a touching Prayer the choir, whica was ably presided over by Nir. Magonigie, sang the “Rock of Ages,”’ the cou- gregation joining in the sweet hymn with most har- monious effect. The benediction was tuen given aad the services were brougit to a close. INTERESTING CEREMOAY. Dedication Services Yoaterday—orricos by Bishop Janes. Tho opeaing exercises in connection with the de- dication,of the Tabernacle Methodist Episcopal church took place yesterday morning at Greenpoint, L. 1, and long before the commencement of the service whe church was crowded. Bishop Janes * omciated in the morning and verformed the dedicatory ceremonials, The church is situated on Union avenue, at the head of Noble street. It ts constructed of brick, and ta 170 feet long, 85 feet broad, and will seat 2,500 people. The interior presents a neat and unique appearance, and excited universaladmiration. The interior walls are of white stone, and the intorior mulliops of the windows are of black walnut. The seats are constructed without doors, and are made of chestnut, with black noatly oarved. Tha welact Mouldings and facto, qi paige, organ lott and galiery front aro FA by twelve pilars of locust wood, ve . surmount oral captale * inted brown. The cost $3,000 ‘the calling me foot vel eo sted 3,000, also 13 eifectvely decor: witb devices of a religious chatact ter, ‘an presents @ Bishop Janes selected his text from Ezra vi, 10- ‘The reverend gentleman remarked that somo dis- cuasion had taken place im former umes upon tho mode of dedicat churoh. It was now gonerally conceded that the th Way was to commence with the same service that they proposed w perpetuate and continue in that place so dod- cated. The heathons, when they set up ther idols inaugurated a service which they never after deviated Irom. They would then to-day preaon, siug, and prey, and render homage to God, an: we Ut is holy name. ‘The Board of Truatees then read a EE prosont- ing the church unto the Bishop, to be opened ana dedicated, and after the recital of the oxxil. Pualm the congregation dispersed. Upwards of $4,209 was LO sedeeed after the service towards the doating lebt. a THE MOXMORS, How They aro Treated by the Gontilee—The Tide of Indignation Hpbsidiag~What Mor moniom Belloves in—Tho Sorvices Yesterday. For more than two months past the people of Long Isiand have been in an excited state of mind over the success of the Mormon bishops and elders in making converts to their faith, So infatwated were some of the people with the brilliant de scriptions of the city of Utah and life thereia that many professed their willingness te be- come converis, receive baptism and stars upon their journey for the happy land, So popular were their ideas of Christianity becoming, as none of the ministers-were content to comute them, but rather enjoyed the theory of abusing their exponents, that the more determined and passion - ate ones concluded to drive thom from the Locality by some means, even by that of violence. While a meeting was in progress in East Mcadows « party of twelve men entered aud informed the “aainw'’ that they would be obilged to leave the locality ia halfan hour or they would be driven out by force, and ten minutes found the preachers and party on thelr return to Freeport. When thoy arrived in the latter place they were availed upon by a deputation of citizens, who in- formed them that they would be required to leave tae town tn twenty-four hours, and if mot gone in tuat tune they woultl be sutyjected to mob violence and driven out by force, Tuinking acquiescence the better part of valor they went to Patchogue. Hero they intended to remain until civil protection was alforded thom, when they would return. Justice Curtis, of Freeport, haying promised protection the excitement has broken fy egaln. esterday a necting Was held at Christian Mook, and ft was thoughé that a disturbance would ensue, ut no one could be found ong the maloontenta daring enough to begin the assault. Elder Brower preached in the afternoon, his sermon seeming to atford general satisiaction. During the course of his remarks he said:—‘We do not wonder at tho pgrpecoen, which we receive here. Tho faith has en everywhere persecuted stace its promulgation, ax was Ohrist before it We do not rely om the ook of Mormon as a mode of worship, as has heen stated by our persecutors, but, on the con- trary we adhere with unparalieled zeal to the tenets of the Bible, delivered to us vy the Almighty through arevelation. Joseph Smith Imad a revelation aud found the plates containing the word of God con cealed under ground, composed as they were of solid gold. Smith, too, was everywhere persecuted. He was arrested on various charges and tried forty - six times, each time being defended by Stephen A. Dongias, and acquitted. this persecutors, howe | that they could not beheadjhim in this way, low themselves to the common level of the murderer aud had him assassinated. lie was snot while declaring the faith he had received through revelation. Those who do not like our faith because it recognizes poly- gamy do not understand it. Some Mormons have more toan one wife, but while they have the right tt ts not an obligation, Abraham and ail the ancients had more than one wife, and while the Almighty was on the earth he dwelt with them and did not object to it—nay, ho rather countenauced it. We believe that Christ came to save all. We haveas much chance to be saved as any of the Protestant belief, for they, too, are schismatics. We all generated from the. holic Church and owe our allegiance to her. Mf we are the followers of a faith founded by @ mortal man, then 60 are the Methodisis, for they are followers of an ingane mortal named Wesley. And a liko Characteristic will apply to them all. We claim to have all the gifts and biessings anciently enjoyed, and believe that we will inherit tho earth after its destruction, and, that God, the Saviour and Holy Ghost gre three distinct persons. Of all the learned divines none have ever been able toconfute the Book of Mormon, lf they think they are eorrect why fear the Mormons? We wil! give them every opportunity to confute our doctrines, and are willing tu ineet tuem on any pubic platform. If they continue to hold these meetings some serious disturbance may be confidently looked for, which, if once commenced, will terminate in blood- royee as they are determined to defeud themselves the > . . MISCELLANEOUS SFRVICES {N BROOKLYN. There was a love feast and experience meeting yesterday afternoon at three o'clock in the Cumber- land street chapel. The utmost enthusiasm of ® pious order was displayed by the congregation. ‘The Clinton avenue Baptist church, of which Rev. F. T. Hiscox 18 pastor, was well attended yesterday. “Remarkeble Events of Bible History"! was the sup- ject of the evening discourse. The Swedenborgians, of the Church of tho New Jerusalem, corner of Clark street and Monroe place, held their usual Savbath services, under the guidance of Rev. J. C. Agar, morning and evening. Seats were free toall. In the evoning the subject of the discourse was ‘False Christs."’ The pilgrims of the Church of the Pilgrims, Rev. R. S. Storrs, Jr,, said thelr prayersand sung their psalms yesterday at the Academy of Music. The attendance was numerous and fashionable, ‘The Episcopat Mission chapel, on Greene avenue, near Marcy, of which the Rev, Aivah Guton 1: tor, which has been pressed forward with such energy of late that the basement hall is now com plete,’ was opened to dtivinery orshtp for the first ttm: esterday. Rev. Bishop Littlejoun preached in the forenoon and Rey. J. A. Paddock in the evening. ‘There was @ large assemblage present. Rev. W. W. Hammond, pastor of the Pierrepont street Baptist church, closed his labors with that congregation yesterday, having accepted a call else- where. There was a large attendance at the vari- us services, “Tne Temptation,tor the Blending of the Divine and Haman Wills,” was the title of a sermon preiened by Rev. M. P. Gaddis at the State street Vongregational church last evening. The usual temperance meeting, under the aus- pices of the Kings County Temperance Asacciation, ‘Was neld at Hooley’s opera house last evening. The place was crowded to excess aud the “end men’ got off several very amusing cartcatures of inebriaves to the delight of a decidedly “mixed” audience. Rey. D. Moore, Jr., of the Washington avenue Bap- ust church, administerod the ordinance of baptism to several of that congregation yesterday at the close of the evening service. (‘The Jamaica Praying Band” was the attraction at Wesley Methodist Episcopal church in the fore- noon. There was a very enjoyable musical religious feast gone through with by those in attenaance. ‘The “Curse of Strong Drink,” touching the Voor- hees murder, was portrayed tm a lecture by lev. George A. Hubbel at Warren street Methodist Kipis- copa church last evening before the usual congrega- tion in attendance at that place of Wrorahtp, ‘The regulations for Lent were read in all tho Cath- olic churches of the diocese of Brooklyn yesterday at ali the masses, ‘The rules prescribed for the ob- servance of the forty days of fasting and prayer are the same as usual, Rev. Father McGiven preached an excellent ser- mon before a very large Congregation on ‘slander and its Evil Effect” at the principal service at the Uburen of St. Charles de Borromeo, It was afiesson worthy of committal to the tablets of memory and ractical fulfilment in the every-day life of the Ubristian. HOW TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS AND ANNOYANCES? ON CITY RAILROAD CARS. To THe EpiItor OF THE HKRALD:— Having been compelled to travel over a city rail- Toad for three years and more I have had ample op- portunity of observing many of the disagreeable and perplexing situations in which passengers are placed while in transit, and would respectfully suggest the following as’ a patent remedy for ali, or nearly all, the ills complained of, In the first place, there should be a continuous line or semi-circular connection at either end of the route, and, as a majority of the accidents and annoyances are caused by the front platform, I would abolish that entirely by closing up one end of the car and erecting @ single elevated seat ior the driver, which would give him better oversight of his team and more control of the check, which could be placed near Ais hand. ‘The advantages of these changes shouid be obvious, but I will enumerate. nger from accident ig avoided by the front piatform, 2—There would be no necessity for reversing the team, a8 now Dreo- tised. Lit Clay attention eee a ne Son considerate passengers, frequent oon aecident. 4—Passengers could secure venti- lation without being suffocated by bad cigars or worse tobacco from pipes infront. 6—They would not be made to suffer by the conductor collecting fares with the front door open on a wet or cold or disagreeable day. 6—The little peasantry of the river in crowding ladies in at the front door when the car is already fiiled vo repletion would aay Le ensed with, othiene reforms, with the addition of divided seata, 80 a8 to seoure ‘to each passenger What of right ia hia or Rera, would, I think, make city car riding about as comfortavle as it is Capadie of en made; ‘at leas such (a the opinion of = GIRALDIL Wits!