THE CHURCH NEWS.

Globe, Volume II, Issue 142, 16 November 1874, Page 2

THE CHURCH NEWS.

To the Editor of the Gtohe. Sir, — I observe a letter in Saturday’s paper signed “ Z,” on which I wisli to offer a few comments. Not knowing what remarks were made by Mr Watson, I can say nothing ah®it them, but as to the use of the words “ altar, and others of a like kind,” I would like to inform “ Z” that if he would condescend to read the New Testament he would find that the use of the word “altar” was hy no means obnoxious to the great Head of the Church, nor to His disciples ; that the same may be said of the word “sacrifice,” which is perfectly scriptural, and that the word “priest” has a very good pedigree easily traced up to the original of the New Testament. If some earnest churchmen choose to attach an obnoxious meaning to them, that is their affair, not the fault of the words. “Z” does not name these latter words, but I suppose he alludes to them being of like kind, and as they are of more importance than the old English words “matins and evensong,” the objection to which appears so frivolous, that I incline to think that no “union of Christians” would suit “Z” unless the terms were to he dictated by himself, or, as the translators of the Bible express it, “by self-conceited brethren, who run their own ways, and give liking unto nothing but what is framed by themselves and hammered on their anvil.”

The original compilers of our liturgy were much more liberal that we are in these days. Their direction was, “in all things to follow and keep the rule of charity; and every man to be satisfied with his own conscience, not judging other men’s minds or consciences ; whereas he hath no warrant of God’s Word to the same.”

In regard to choral services, and so on, I quite agree with “Z.” Ido not object to them myself, nor have I detected any heresy in the hymns; but I think it would be an excellent move if “ Z.,” and the large number of earnest churchmen who prefer a plain service would erect a new church or chapel, in which the services might be conducted in a simpler style, the old congregational psalmody revived, and Sternhold, and Hopkins, too, if the congregation wished. “What is there to prevent it ? For myself I should also be glad of a quiet afternoon service by daylight at the old canonical hour of three, in lieu of the gaslight services now in fashion. Yours, &c., Q-