From the pamphlet above mentioned we make the following extracts:—
“Faith And Principles Of The Society.
“1. A life of innocence and purity, according to the example of Jesus Christ and his first true followers; implying entire abstinence from all sensual and carnal gratifications.
“2. Love.—‘By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Love is the fulfilling of the law.’ This is our bond of union.
“3. Peace.—‘Follow peace with all men,’ is a divine precept; hence our abstinence from war and bloodshed, from all acts of violence towards our fellow-men, from all the party contentions and politics of the world, and from all the pursuits of pride and worldly ambition. ‘My kingdom (said Christ) is not of this world.’
“4. Justice.—‘Render to every man his due. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another.’ We are to be just and honest in all our dealings with mankind, to discharge all just dues, duties, and equitable claims, as seasonably and effectually as possible.
“5. Holiness.—‘Without which no man shall see the Lord.’ Which signifies to be consecrated, or set apart from a common to a sacred use. Hence arise all our doctrines and practical rules of dedicating our persons, services, and property, to social and sacred uses, having adopted the example of the first gospel church, in establishing and supporting one consecrated and united interest by the voluntary choice of every member, as a sacred privilege, and not by any undue constraint or persuasion.
“6. Goodness.—Do good to all men, as far as opportunity [pg 080] and ability may serve, by administering acts of charity and kindness, and promoting light and truth among mankind. ‘Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.’
“7. Truth.—This principle is opposed to falsehood, lying, deceit, and hypocrisy, and implies fidelity, reality, good, earnest sincerity, and punctuality in keeping vows and promises. These principles are the genuine basis of our institution, planted by its first founders, exhibited in all our public writings, justified by Scripture and fair reason, and practically commended as a system of morality and religion, adapted to the best interest and happiness of man, both here and hereafter.
“Manner Of Admitting Members.