A SERMON PREACHED AT THE ORDINATION OF THE REVEREND MR. JOSEPH WILLARD, TO THE PASTORAL CARE OF THE FIRST CHURCH IN BEVERLY, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE REVEREND MR. JOSEPH CHAMPNEY, NOVEMBER XXV. MDCCLXXII. TO WHICH ARE ANNEXED, THE CHARGE, BY THE REV. DR. APPLETON, AND THE RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP, BY THE REV. MR. HOLT.
Boston, New England: Thomas and John Fleet, 1773. 47, [1 blank] pp. Disbound, with the half title. Mild foxing and light dampstaining of first few leaves. Inscription at head of title page, "For the Revd. Mr. [clipped] at Kittery. From his very humbley Joseph Willa[rd]". Right edge of inscription clipped with loss of several letters, as indicated. Good+.
Eliot was an influential proponent of the ideas of Natural Rights and self-government. A staunch supporter of the American Revolution, he remained in Boston during the British occupation; during that time, says Appleton's, he "did much to alleviate the sufferings of the people."
This Sermon forcefully advocates self-government and democracy for American religious congregations; and opposes excessive deference to the ministerial class. "Every society of christians have a right to determine this for themselves. But ministers may do much by advice..." He offers "cautions against pride and domination" by ministers. "Ordination makes no alteration in the person, he is not more learned, more wise, or righteous, than he was before." He is merely privileged "to act as a minister in the administration of divine ordinations, so long as he behaves well."
FIRST EDITION. Evans 12760. Item #27223
Price: $375.00