# Synodical Conference Convention Proceedings_St. Louis Missouri_1877_S44
# AI translation — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

— 44 —

[Folio: the second digit is a damaged 4 (its diagonal did not print; the stub of the crossbar and the foot of the 4 are visible), so that it resembles a 1; read 44.]

to do nothing by which one or the other part of the Synodical Conference could come to the apprehension that we do not stand in one spirit and mind. So often, therefore, as in future this or that synod intends to undertake something publicly which could awaken apprehension of this kind in the other part, we wish to inform one another of it openly beforehand, without fear that the party concerned should get the idea that the other wants to encroach upon the rights of its synod, to prescribe laws in matters of indifference, and whatever such thoughts there might be. Rather, all brotherly admonition shall be given in the disposition that the welfare of one synod is also that of the other, and that with care for the freedom of the other synod care is taken also for one's own. No one shall let it enter his mind to restrict this freedom in any way. Only the laws of brotherly love shall be brought into force. No counsels, opinions and demands can be binding for any synod if it has not yet been clearly convinced of their rightfulness, usefulness and advantage for the great whole of the kingdom of God."

On this it was further remarked that one can well agree heartily with the plan of the Conference of last year on the whole and yet later, after exact examination, wish and propose changes in subordinate points, without thereby coming into conflict with the plan in its essence.

II. The Resumption of the Heathen Mission [*Heidenmiſſion*].

The report of the 2nd committee drew attention, among other things, to a proposal and inquiry of Mr. President H. A. Preus [*Präſes*], reading: "Whether it is not time for the Synodical Conference [*Synodalconferenz*] to direct its attention to the heathen mission and to call into life a mission, perhaps, among the Negroes and Indians of this country."

This so highly important subject was taken up for discussion at once, since it is entirely in harmony with our Constitution. For there, among the objects of the Conference's activity, there is also listed: "Matters of foreign and home missions, as well as emigrant mission." To negotiate longer about the high importance of this matter was unnecessary, since all delegates were animated by the desire to take part also in the blessed work of the heathen mission. One only called to mind the great interest that our Lutheran people has for the heathen mission, and that we therefore need not fear at all that few means will be available for it. But if we do not make use of the impulse of our Lutheran Christian people to do something for the heathen mission, it will turn with its means to where we do not like to see it. For even the mission societies of Germany, like the state churches