A Discourse on the Evils of Dancing

DELIVERED MARCH 8, 1846
BEFORE THE CONGREGATION
THE GERMAN REFORMED SALEM CHURCH
HARRISBURG, PA.
By the Pastor, the Rev. John F. Mesick
PUBLISHED BY THE VESTRY
HARRISBURG
THEO: FENN, PRINTER
1846
Harrisburg, March 11, A. D. 1846. Rev. John F. Mesick— Dear Sir: On last Sabbath evening, 8th inst., you preached a sermon to our congregation on The Evils of Dancing . As this is a custom which is in much practise even by those who consider themselves patterns in society, and, who generally comprise the youth, and say that it is an innocent amusement. We would esteem it as a favor if you would furnish us with a copy thereof for publication that it may be circulated in our Sabbath Schools, among the votaries of dancing, the parents and friends of those who have been assenting to it, in the hope that they may read it and learn its evil consequences, and abstain from its practice hereafter, and be satisfied that its use is not in character with the present age, whatever may have seemingly commended it in former days.
Harrisburg, March 11, 1846. To the Vestry of the German Reformed Salem Church: Dear Brethren: Although the Discourse preached on Sabbath evening last, was prepared during the preceding week as a regular duty, without a thought in reference to a request of this kind; yet as you have been pleased to express a wish to see it in print, in the hope of extending its usefulness, the manuscript is at your service. With sincere esteem and affection, yours, &c., JOHN F. MESICK.
ROMANS, XII. 3.— BE NOT CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD.