At Grand Bay twelve of fourteen persons were baptized and received into the membership of this Church. On the formation of the Fairville Church in 1881, those remaining on our roll were dismissed to that church. The work was continued at Musquash, Grand Bay and Red Head. There were weekly accessions for months in succession, and a rich harvest of souls were gathered in, so that 1842 was a year of refreshing in this Church and its outposts.
The commercial crisis of 1843 produced much financial embarrassment, and occasioned many removals on the part of church members; but the labors of the pastor were incessant, and the spirit of revival was enjoyed in some measure, though not to the same extent as in the previous year.
The mercantile depression continued and was greatly felt by the Church through 1844; but the work of God advanced despite all depressing influences, and some fifteen were baptized during the year. The pastor was aided in his work by Brother John Francis, whose zeal and earnestness in the cause produced a deep impression on many hearts.
The Portland Church was organized in 1842, and 1846 the Association met with them, this Church assisting in entertaining the delegates. On the Sabbath an interesting meeting was held in the open air in the neighborhood of “The Bethel” on Britain street. Several were converted, and the worship of God established in that place. In 1847 “The Bethel” was completed and opened for worship. It was designed to be a free house—open to sailors, and any who might be induced to come and hear the message of life. It is worthy of note that “The Bethel” was erected on the very ground where a house once stood, occupied by a colored sister belonging to this Church, and was for many years consecrated as a place of prayer.
The Baptist Convention was organized in this Church in 1846. At this time the deacons were: N. S. De Mille, Thomas Lockey, Samuel Kinsman, and John Smith. The cause was greatly revived in 1847, twenty being added by baptism and fifteen by letter.
One of Mr. Robinson’s methods for aggressive work was to send out the members in bands of four to hold meetings in different parts of the city and vicinity. Besides the places previously referred to these included Brussels street, Pitt Street, Marsh Bridge and Loch Lomond. Such a meeting was established on Brussels street in a private room. It soon became a Mission station. In 1847 the erection of the present edifice was commenced, and in 1850 a separate church was organized.
1848 was distinguished by the out-pouring of the Spirit’s power. The gracious work commenced in March in the Sunday School under the superintendence of Deacon G. A. Garrison. Eight young persons presented themselves for baptism and were joyfully received by the Church. The good work proceeded as the following report will show. When the Western Association was organized in 1848, this Church reported an increase for year: By baptism 33, by letter 16, restored 3. Total increase 52. Total membership 455. Contributions for Denominational Funds £27 11s. 8 1/2d. ($110.34).
Sunday School: No. of Schools 2, No. of Scholars 200, No. of Teachers 35, No. of Volumes 600, No. of Baptisms from Schools 25.
In 1849 the Sunday School reported 3 Schools, 320 Scholars, and 43 Teachers; while in 1850, after the separation, the numbers had fallen to 1 School, 120 Scholars and 16 Teachers.
Brussels Street Building Dedicated.