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The Rev. John Clark The First Pastorate 1781-1794 The Rev. John Clark probably supplied the pulpits of Bethel and Lebanon during 1781-82 and became pastor in 1783 and ministered until 1794. He was about 64 years of age, however, he "labored in season and out of season" not only to these churches but preached to other groups of believers who had no pastor. He was chosen Moderator of the Redstone Presbytery. He, along with the Rev. Joseph Smith and the Rev. John McMillan were appointed to a committee to examine all ministers from other parts coming into this Presbytery, to determine if they were qualified in faith and doctrine before granting them permission to minister to congregations. In 1785 the first Ladies Aid Society was formed to furnish clothing for the young men studying for the ministry. Presbytery considered favorably a recommendation for raising contributions for support of missionaries to the Indians and outlying settlements. The Rev. Robert Marshall was chosen as the first missionary and served until October, 1792, when he was dismissed to labor in Kentucky. There was a particularly gracious revival throughout this region in 1787 and mentioned the music in the services at Bethel by the Western Missionary Magazine of September, 1803. "The singing in Mr. Clark's meetings was unusually good owing greatly to the uncommon vocal powers of a pious colored woman, Dido, belonging to Mr. Clark. Her voice was very sweet and melodious and could be heard above the combined voices of the congregation. He also had a colored man, Dave, whose bass alone was sufficient for a whole congregation." In 1794, Mr. Clark resigned on account of failing health, but preached occasionally until his successor was called. |
