Norwood Presbyterian Church

Session Minutes - 1911-1920

[Page 61] Statistical Report to Louisiana Presbytery Mar. 31, 1911. Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Communicants added on Examination, 0; Communicants added on Certificate, 0; Total Communicants, 60; Adult Baptisms, 0; Infant Baptisms, 0; Officers & Teachers in S.S. and Bible Class, 10; Scholars in S.S. & Bible Classes, 55; Foreign Missions, $74.00; Assemblies Home Missions, 41.00; Local Home, 52.00; Colored Evangelization, 4.00; Ministerial Relief, 9.00; Ministerial Education, 15.00; Schools and Colleges, ---; S.S. Extension & Publication, 13.00; Bible Causes, 2.50; Assembly's Home & School at Fredericksburg, Va., 17.00; Orphan's Home, 21.00; Congregational Presbyterial Tax & Pastor's Salary actually paid, 801.00; Total, $1049.00. Approved as far as written, in Presbytery at Clinton, La., Apr. 12, 1911. J. Y. Allison, Moderator.

[Page 62] Norwood Presbyterian Church, June 8, 1911. Session met, Opened with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator. Elders present I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. There being no business before Session, Session Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church Sept. 5th, 1911. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Elders present Ben Graves, W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Miss Lila Caulfield presented herself. On examination as to her faith in Christ was received. She will be baptized & received into full Communion of the Church on Sunday Sept. 17th, 1911. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Sept. 8/11 Session Met, Opened with prayer by Mr. W. McLaurin, Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator. Elders present Ben Graves, W. McLaurin, J. L. Street. Mr. & Mrs. Caulfield were received by [Page 63] letter from the Rose Hill Presbyterian Church to full membership into this Church. A letter of dismission was granted Mr. John Field to unite with the Woodville Presbyterian Church. Session took recess until after services & closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Sept. 17/11 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator. Elders present Ben Graves & I. D. Norwood. Miss Emma P. Boatner presented herself before Session and after examination as to her faith in Christ, and after baptism Administered, was received into full Communion of the Church. Miss Emma is a Sunday School pupil & has been for six years. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator, I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 64] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Oct. 2nd, 1911. Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator. Elders present were I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin & Ben Graves. On Motion Elder I. D. Norwood was selected to represent the church at the Louisiana Presbytery & W. McLaurin Alternate. Presbytery met at Opelousas, La. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Mar. 6th, 1912. Session Met, Opened with prayer by Rev. W. H. Benton, who was invited to act as Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, Walter McLaurin & I. D. Norwood. I. D. Norwood was elected Representative and W. McLaurin Alternate to Spring Meeting of the La. presbytery which is to meet in Zachary on 2nd of April. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 65] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Mar. 24th, 1912. Session Met, Opened with prayer by Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Mr. J. T. Sebastain one of the Deacons was invited to be present. Mr. Benton Stated to the Session that he had accepted the call we extended to him for one half of his time. Mr. Clem Ried was granted his letter of dismissal to unite with the Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Miss. Rev. Dr. Hutton, Pastor. Letters of dismissal was also granted to Dr. & Mrs. W. F. Hagaman to unite with the Presbyterian Church at Dallas, Texas. Reports to Presbytery read & approved. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 66] Report on Statistics & Systematic Benefices to La. Presbytery. Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on Examination, 2; Added on Certificate, 2; Total of Communicants, 65; Adults Baptisms, 1; Infants, 1; Foreign Missions, $11.25; Assembly's Home Missions, 14.35; Local Home Missions (including Synodical & Presbyterian Home Missions), 11.48; Christian Education & Ministerial Relief, 15.75; Pastor's Salary actually paid, 163.00; Congregational Presbyterial Tax & all other incidental expenses, 6.00; Miscellaneous, 92.50; Total for local expenses of Church, 261.50. Approved except minutes not approved by the session. W. A. Zeigler, Moderator, Zachary, La., April 3, 1912.

[Page 67] Norwood Church, June 2nd, 1912. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, I. D. Norwood, and J. L. Street. Letters of dismission were granted Mrs. S. B. Read & her two children, Marion and Annie, to unite with the Centreville Miss., Presbyterian Church. Session invited Rev. T. M. Hunter of Baton Rouge to hold a protracted Meeting beginning on Tuesday night before the third Sabbath of July, 1912. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Sept. 1/1912. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. By their own request the letters were granted to the following persons, Mr. & Mrs. David Byers to unite with the presbyterian Church, Bogalusa, La., and Miss Maud & Lennie Byers to unite with the 1st Presbyterian Church of Jonesboro, Texas. Session closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 68] Norwood Church, Sept 24, 1912. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, I. D. Norwood, and J. L. Street. Letter from Rev. W. A. Zeigler received in reference to holding a protracted meeting read. Session decided to Commence the meeting on Monday night Sept. the 30th. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Nov. 18/12. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders w. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. I. D. Norwood was chosen representative and W. McLaurin Alternate to Synod which is to meet at Crowley on the 15th Nov. 1912. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 69] Norwood, La. Jan 28th, 1913. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod. Present Elders Ben Graves, W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Rev. W. H. Benton offered his resignation as Pastor of this Church, having accepted a call to the Central Presbyterian Church of Jackson, Miss. Motion made that there be a Congregational Meeting Called for next Sabbath Feb. the 2nd for the purpose of acting upon the resignation of Rev. W. H. Benton. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church Feb. 26/13. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. By their own request letters were granted to Mrs. W. H. Benton and her children, Wilmote W., Howard, Joseph Homer & Robert Rutland to unite, with the Central Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Miss. Session closed with prayer. Rev. W. H. Benton, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 70] Norwood Church, Mar. 30, 1913. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. W. L. Merrin being present was invited to Moderate the session. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & Joe L. Street. On Motion J. L. Street was Chosen as representative and Ben Graves Alternate to Louisiana Presbytery, which will convene at Jackson, La., April 15th. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. L. Merrin, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, April 13/1913. Session Met, Opened with prayer by Ruling Elder Walter McLaurin, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and Joe L. Street. Reports to Presbytery read and approved. Deacons J. T. Sebastain and W. L. Byers was invited to sit with session. No further business Session Closed. Ruling Elder Walter McLaurin, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 71] Report on Statistics and Systematic Beneficence Mar. 31st, 1913. Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on Examination, 0; Added on Certificate, 5; Total of Communicants, 64; Adults Baptisms, 0; Infants, 0; S.S. Members officers, Teachers & Scholars & Cradle Roll. Home Dept., 84; Pastor's Salary actually paid, 416.60; Congregational, Pres. Tax & all other incidental expenses, 55.00; Miscellaneous, 60.00; Foreign Missions, $18.36; Assembly's Home Missions including Colored Evangelization, 9.17; Local Home Missions (including Synodical & Presbyterian Home Missions), 18.15; Christian Education & Ministerial Relief, 19.37; Sabbath School Extension & Publication, 00; Bible Causes, 0; Orphan's Home other than Assembly's Home & School, 25.00.

[Page 72] Approved in Presbytery, Apr. 17, 1913, in Jackson, La. William A. Rolle, Moderator.

[Page 73] Norwood Church Sept. 3rd, 1913. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Sue Belle Brainard from Mt. Olive Southern Presbyterian Church, Mr. & Mrs. James Crawford, Misses Cola and Wanita Crawford from the Rose Hill Presbyterian Church these seven presented themselves before Session and were duly received in full Communion of this Church. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, Sept. 4/13. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders Walter McLaurin, Ben Graves, Joe Street & I. D. Norwood. Mr. B. C. McClue presented himself before Session and requested to unite with his church and on Statement was received in full Membership. He Came from the Ethel M. E. Church South. No further business, Session Closed. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 74] Norwood Pres. Church, Sept. 5/13 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S.Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, I. D. Norwood, W. McLaurin, and J. L. Street.Misses Mildred and Oris Crawford presented themselves before the Session, and was received upon Statement in full Communion of the Church from the Rose Hill Presbyterian Church. Session ratified the action of Rev. E. S. Brainard & Elder W. McLaurin in receiving Mrs. Davis into full Membership of this Church. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Sept. 7/13. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves, W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood, Joe L. Street. Revs. J. F. Naylor, D. F. Wilkinson, and W. A. Rolle was invited to sit with Session. The following persons presented themselves before Session and after examination as to their faith in Christ was received into full membership of the Church.

[Page 75] All having been baptized in infancy except Eva May Boatner, Willie Boatner and Jack Caulfield. Mrs. W. L. Byers, Certificate from the Episcopal Church. Miss Judith Sebastain, Toby Sebastain, Newton Sebastain, Miss Lillie Hood, Cary Street, Mabel Street, John Richardson, Eugene Richardson, Robt. Field, Leland Davis, Lizy Davis, Miss Willie B. Crawford, Stella Crawford. All of them from the Sunday School. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Sept. 5/1913. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., Present Elders I. D. Norwood, W.McLaurin, Joe L. Street, Also Deacon W. L. Byers & J. T. Sebastain. After discussion it was decided that we make an effort to build a Sunday School Room. J. D. Norwood was selected as representative & W. McLaurin Alternate to presbytery which is to meet in Alexandria on Oct. 17/13. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 76] Norwood Church, Oct. 12/13. Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Moderator. Present Elders Walter McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & Joe L. Street. Mr. & Mrs. Hunter Richardson presented their letter from the Woodville M. E. Church South and on motion they were received in full Membership of this Church. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Dec. 14/13. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Moderator. Present Elders Joe L. Street, Walter McLaurin, & I. D. Norwood. Mrs. Blanch Graves presented her letter from the Manassa M. E. Church South on motion she was received in full Communion in this Church. Session Closed with the Benediction. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 77] Norwood Church, March 8, 1914. Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood, & J. L. Street, the deacons Messrs. J. T. Sebastain, W. L. Byers were invited to be present. Mr. Walter McLaurin was chosen representative and I. D. Norwood Alternate to Spring Presbytery which is to Convene at the Plains Presbyterian Church on April the 7th 1914. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 78] Report on Statistics & Systematic Beneficence Mar. 31/14. Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on examination, 18; Added on certificate, 8; Total of communicants, 89; Adults Baptisms, 3; Infant Baptisms, 0; S.S. Enrollment, --; Officers & Teachers, --; Cradle Roll, --; Pastor's Salary actually paid, $472.50; Congregational, Presbyterial Tax roll & all incidental expenses, --; Miscellaneous, 126.46; Foreign Missions, 42.41; Local Home Missions, 71.52; Christian Education & Ministerial Relief, 23.18; Bible Causes, 5.12; Sabbath School Extension & Publication, --; Orphans Homes other than Assemblies Home School, --.

[Page 79] Norwood Church April 6/14. Session Met Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood, J. L. Street & Deacons J. T. Sebastain & W. L. Byers. Reports to presbytery read and approved. Minutes of Session read and approved. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Criticized and approved in open Presbytery at Plains Church on April 9th, 1914. C. B. Tomb, Moderator.

[Page 80] Norwood Church, Aug. 23rd, 1914. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood, and J. L. Street. Frank L. Norwood presented his letter from the Port Gibson Presbyterian Church was received in full membership. Letter of dismissal was granted Mrs. A. E. Lindsay to unite with the Rose Hill Presbyterian Church. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, Sept. 5th, 1914. Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders Ben Graves and I. D. Norwood. Master Wilbur Lipscomb presented himself and after due examination as to his faith in Christ was received in full Communion of this Church, having been baptized in infancy. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 81] Report on Statistics and Systematic Beneficence. Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on Examination, 2; Added on Certificate, 1; Resident Communicants, 70; Non-Resident Communicants, 8; Total Number of Communicants, 78; Adults Baptism, --; Infant Baptism, --; Foreign Missions, $70.36; Assembly's Home Missions, 38.90; Synod's Home Missions, 1.00; Presbyterian's Home Missions, 67.69; Congregational Home Missions, --; Christian Ed & Ministerial Relief, 36.77; Sabbath School Extension & Publication, 8.00; Schools and Colleges, 12.20; Bible Causes, --; Orphan Homes, 35.00; Miscellaneous, 753.00. Total, 1023.20. Officers & Teachers, 12; Scholars, 115; Cradle Roll, 14; Home department, 15; Total S. S. Enrollment, 156. Pastor's Salary actually, 609.00; Incidental Ex & Presbyterial Tax, 45.73.

[Page 82] Norwood Church, April 22/15. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Present Elders Walter McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Deacons W. L. Byrnes and J. T. Sebastian were invited to meet with the session. Elder Walter McLaurin was chosen as representative and I. D. Norwood Alternate to the Meeting of Spring Presbytery which will Convene at Norwood, La., April 27th, 1915. Reports to Presbytary read and approved. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Approved with the exception that session did not meet quarterly owing to unavoidable circumstances. E. S. Brainard, Moderator.

[Page 83] Norwood Church, Sept./15. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders Walter McLaurin and I. D. Norwood. Gordon and Edith Davis appeared before session. After due examination as to their faith in Jesus Christ was received in full Communion of the Church, having been baptized in infancy. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Jan. 30/16. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin and Joe L. Street. Mr. Walter McLaurin, Jr., request for a letter of dismission to unite with the Presbyterian Church of Alexandria was granted. No further business, Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Branard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 84] Norwood Church, April 2nd, 1916. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin and Joe L. Street. Masters John Willie Dickinson, Joe L. Street, Jr., and Thomas P. Street, Jr., presented themselves before Session. After due examination as to their faith in Jesus Christ was received in full Communion of the Church, having been baptized in infancy. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, April 7th/1916. Session Met Opened with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin and Joe L. Street And Deacons W. L. Byers and J. T. Sebastain. Elder I. D. Norwood was chosen representative and Walter McLaurin Alternate to Spring Meeting of Presbytary which will Convene at Clinton, La., April 11th. Reports to Presbytery [Page 85] made up. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Approved with the following exception: The statistical report to Presbytery was not copied into the minutes. J. F. McKenzie, Mod.

[Page 86] Norwood Pres. Church, Mar. 30/17. Session Met Opened with prayer. Rev. E. C. Bingham, Moderator. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Deacons W. L. Byers & J. T. Sebastain was invited to sit with Session. Sessional reports to Presbytery were made out read & approved. Elder J. L. Street was chosen as principal & I. D. Norwood Alternate representation to Spring Meeting of Presbytery which is to convene in Baton Rouge on April the 3rd 1917. By their own request letters were granted to the following persons. Mr. Martin Young to unite with the Baker Pres. Church and Mr. Newton Sebastain to unite with the First Pres. Church of New Orleans. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. S. Brainard, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 87] Approved as far as written in Presbytery April 4, 1917 with the following exceptions: 1. The Session did not meet quarterly, 2. The session did meet to make out reports for the Spring Meeting of Presbytery but did not copy any of same. U. B. Currie, Moderator.

Norwood, La. Mar. 10, 1918. Session met in the Church after morning worship and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod., and Walter McLaurin, I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street, Ruling Elders. Upon their request letters of dismissal to the Woodville Presbyterian Church were granted to Mr. Dee Boatner, Mrs. Fannie Boatner, Misses Emma P. Boatner and Eva May Boatner, also to Mr. Willie Boatner. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Mod.

[Page 88] Norwood, La. Mar. 24th, 1918. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod., and Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Mrs. D. O. Byers and Miss Maud Byers were received as members on certificate from the Presbyterian Church of Jonesboro, Tenn. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood, La., Apr. 22, 1918 Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod., and Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. I. D. Norwood was elected to represent the church at Presbytery Apr. 23, with Walter McLaurin as alternate. Reports of the church were read and adopted and ordered sent to Presbytery. Narrative and Statistical reports are as follows: (1) Attendance, fairly good. (2) Family worship, 25%. (3) One family enrolled in Family Altar League. (4) No flagrant violations of the Sabbath. (5) A minority of families train children in Scripture and Catechisms. (6) Sunday School train in Scripture but not much in the Catechisms. (7) People faithful in giving. (8) Pastor's salary paid promptly in full $500.00. (9) No marked manifestation of the Spirit's power. (10) Worldly conformity as ordinarily understood exists scarcely at all. (11) No evangelistic work outside our bounds. (12) No efforts are made to secure recruits to the ministry other than prayer. Statistics: Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on certificate, 2; Resident Communicants, 63; Non-Residents, 8; Total, 71; Total S.S. Enrollment, 59. Contributions: Foreign Missions, $56; Assembly's Home Missions, $27; Presbytery's, $39; Cong. $29; Education and Relief, $16; S.S. Ext & Pub., $32; Schools & Colleges, $105; Bible Course, $6; Orphan's Homes, $84; Misc., $88; Current Exp. & Pbl. tax, $216; Pastor's salary, $500. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

Approved in Presbytery April 25, 1918. {? signature illegible}, Mod.

[Page 90] Norwood, La., May 5th, 1918. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod. and Ruling Elders Walter McLaurin and J. L. Street. Gordon Richardson appeared before the Session and upon a satisfactory confession of his faith was admitted into full membership in the Church. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Mod., and acting Clerk.

Norwood, May 26, 1918. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod.; Ruling elders, J. L. Street and I. D. Norwood. also Rev. D. O. Byers by invitation. Alton Graves appeared before the Session and on his satisfactory confession of faith was admitted to full membership in the Church. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

[Page 91] Norwood, Aug. 25, 1918. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present; E. C. Bingham, Mod.: Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin and J. L. Street. Certificate of membership and letters of dismission were granted at their own request to Mr. P. E. Richardson, Mrs. P. E. Richardson, John Richardson and Eugene Richardson, Jr. to unite with Second Church, Baton Rouge, La. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

Norwood, La., Nov. 24, 1918. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod.; Ruling Elders, I. D. Norwood, J. L. Street and Walter McLaurin, Sr. I. D. Norwood was elected to represent the Church at special meeting of Presbytery in Baton Rouge. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

[Page 92] Norwood, La., Mar. 29, 1919. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod.; Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood, Walter McLaurin, Sr., and J. L. Street. Walter McLaurin was elected to represent the church in Presbytery at Lake Charles with J. L. Street as his alternate. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

Norwood, La., Apr. 7, 1919. Session met in the church and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Moderator; Ruling Elders Walter McLaurin and J. L. Street. Minutes of preceding meetings were read and approved. Reports to Presbytery were read adopted and ordered sent to Presbytery. Statistical reports is as follows:

Elders, 4; Deacon, 3; Members added on examination, 2; on certificate, 2. Communicants: Resident, 55; Non-Resident, 17; Total, 72; S.S. Enrollment, 51. Contributions: Foreign Missions, $79.00; Assembly's Home Missions, $76.00; Presbytery's Home Missions, $60.00; Christian Education and Ministerial Relief, $45.00; Schools and Colleges, $17.00; Bible Causes, $10.00; Orphans Homes, $68.00; Miscellaneous, $27.00; Current Exp. & Pub. Tax, $125.00; Pastor's Salary, $500.00. Total Benevolence, $382.00. For all other purposes, $625; Grand total, $1007. Narrative: Attendance: Only fair. Family worship, 40%. Three families in Altar League. Observances of Lord's Day, fairly good. Training of children in home: Evidence of neglect noted. In S. S. Scriptures taught but catechisms are neglected except Child's Catechism. Our people are faithful in giving. Pastor's salary promptly paid. There has been no special evidence of Spirit's power. No work outside our bounds. No efforts to secure recruits for ministry other than by prayer. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Moderator.

[Page 94] Approved in Presbytery at Lake Charles, April 9, 1919, as far as written. J. W. Fields, Moderator.

Sept. 21, 1919. Session met and was opened with prayer. Present: E. C. Bingham, Mod. Walter McLaurin, Sr., I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street, Ruling Elders. I. D. Norwood was elected to represent the church at Presbytery Oct. 7th, 1919, and Walter McLaurin as alternate. A congregational meeting was called to convene Sunday, Sept. 28th, 1919 to take action of the request of the pastor that Presbytery dissolve the existing pastoral relation and to transact any other business that might properly come before it. Session was closed with prayer. E. C. Bingham, Mod.

[Page 95] Norwood Church, Oct. 5, 1919. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. C. Bingham, Mod. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Miss Mamie Crawford appeared before Session, after examination as to her faith in Jesus Christ having been baptized in infancy was received in full Communion of the Church. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. C. Bingham, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk of Session.

Norwood Pres. Church, Nov. 9/19. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. C. Bingham, Moderator. Present Elders Walter McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. By her own request Miss Lillie Hood, was granted her letter of dismission to unite with the Rogillioville Methodist Church. J. L. Street was elected Representative to Synod & I. D. Norwood Alternate. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. C. Bingham, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 96] Norwood Pres. Church, Nov. 16/19. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. E. M. Stewart, Mod. Present Elders W. McLaurin, I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Rev. D. O. Byers invited to sit with session. The following persons presented themselves before session for membership. Dr. S. T. East, Misses Essie Trask, Gladys Graves, Ida & Mildred Lipscomb. After due examination as to their faith in Jesus Christ and the baptizing Dr. S. T. East, Essie Trask, Ida & Mildred Lipscomb. Gladys Graves having been baptized in infancy was received in full membership of the Church. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. E. M. Stewart, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood, La., April 11/20. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. Mr. Lafferty of Port Gibson was invited to moderate. Present Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. J. L. Street was elected to represent the Church at Presbytery [Page 97] which is to meet with Plains Church and I. D. Norwood, Alternate. Reports of the Church were read and adopted. Narration & Statistical Reports are as follows (1) attendance, Good (2) Practically 10% (3) one (4) fair (5) Not much observed (6) Good (7) Good (8) Without Pastor (9) No (10) very little (11) None (12) None. Statistics & Systematic Beneficence Report, Elders, 4, Deacons, 3, Added on examination, 7, Resident Communicants, 54, Non-resident communicants, 15, Total Number Communicants, 69. Adults baptisms, 4, Infant baptisms, 1, Sunday School enrollment, 72. Foreign Missions, $24.00, Assembly's Home Missions, $23.00, Presbyterial Home Missions, $38.00, Bible Causes $10.00, Orphans Home, $15.00, Current Expenses & Presbyterial Tax, $71.00, Pastor's Salary paid $360.00. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. Mr. Lafferty, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 98] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La. June 13, 1920. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. Mr. Lafferty, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. street. On motion letters of dismissal were granted to the following persons, Misses Lizzy Davis, Edith & Eunice Davis, Leland & Gorden Davis to unite with the Bunkie Pres. Church, and Mr. Jno. P. & John Willie Dickerson to unite with the Lake Charles Pres. Church. No further business, Session Closed with prayer. Rev. Mr. Laffrerty, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, July 25/20 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Mr. J. A. Richardson presented himself before Session. After due examination as to his faith in Christ & having been baptized in infancy, was received in full membership of the Church. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 99] Norwood Pres. Church, Oct. 3rd, 1920. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Mrs. H. M. Perkins was received by letter from Westminster Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, Texas in full Communion of the Church. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, Norwood, La., Oct. 21/1920. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. I. D. Norwood was appointed as representative to presbytary which convenes at Welsh, La. on the 26th Oct. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 100] Norwood Pres. Church, Norwood, La., Nov. 21/20. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. The letters of the following persons were presented & read, Mr. & Mrs. Henry McKneely, Dr. Frank McKneely & Miss Comeala Caston. On motion were received in full Communion of the church. They came from the Clinton Presbyterian Church. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood, La., Apl. 18/21: Session met at Church opened with prayer. Present Rev. H. M. Perkins, S. S. Modr., and Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Mr. J. T. Sebastain, Deacon, being present was invited to sit in consultation. Reports to Presbytery were made and approved. Statistics as follows: Elders, 4. Deacons, 3. Added on Examination, 1. Added on Certificate, 5. Res. Communicants, 52. Non-resident Communicants, 20. Whole number, 72. Baptisms Adults none. Infants, none. [Page 101] Benevolent Funds Contributed to Foreign Missions, $20.00. Assembly Home Missions, $11.00. Synods Home Missions, 0. Pres. Home Mission, 0. Congrs. H.M., $23.00. Christian Ed & Ministerial Relief, $114.00. Educational Institutions, $1.00. Bible Cause, 0. Current Ex & Pres. tax, $48.00. Pastors salary paid, $400.00. Miscellaneous Contributions, $384.00. Total Benevolent Contr., $169.00. Total Contr. to other causes, $832.00 Grand total Contributions, $1026.00. No "Every Member" Canvass made. Narrative: Preaching services on Sabbath two, or three Sabbaths each month. Percentages of members attending, Morning services, 75%, Evening services, 40%. No Prayer Meeting. 1 Rec'd on profession, 5 on certificate. Present membership 52 Res., 20 non-res. Total 72. No evangelistic Meeting held. 2. Not ans 10%. None. No. 7, 2 75%. No. 8, Yes. No. 9, Yes. No. 10, no. No. 11, Yes, Child's. No. 12, No. No. 13, Yes. No. 14, 20%. No. 15, No. No. 16, 800.00, yes, none. No. 17, Very little. No. 18, No. No. 19, Yes.

A letter of dismission granted to Miss Doris Crawford to the Clinton La. Pres. Ch. Ruling Elder I. D. Norwood was appointed as Representative to ensuing meeting of Pres.

[Page 102] to meet at De Ridder, La., and Ruling Elder J. L. Street as Alternate. Meeting adjourned with prayer by the Minister. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clk. Approved in Presbytery Apr. 20, 1921 at De Ridder with the following exceptions, 1. The records were not approved by Presbytery in April 1920. 2. Session was not closed with prayer, Nov. 20, 1920. T. T. Trimble, Mod.

[Page 103] Norwood, La., May 22/21 Session Met at the Church and was opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. By his own request Mr. Walter McLaurin, Sr., was granted his letter of dismission to unite with the Presbyterian Church of Helena, Ark. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clk.

Norwood, La. June 24/21 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & Ben Graves. Rev. Mr. Sargent was invited to be with the session. Mr. & Mrs. T. W. Pemble & Mr. & Mrs. W. F. Lipscomb came before the session, on their statement was received from the M. E. Church South. No further business, Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clk.

[Page 104] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Saturday, June 25/21. Session Met immediately after divine worship at the evening hour and opened with prayer. Present Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., and Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood, Joe L. Street and Ben Graves. The following persons were received into full communion. Mr. & Mrs. W. I. Gant, Mr. & Mrs. Mac. B. Green, on letters and statements from the M. E. Church South, Mr. & Mrs. H. L. Perkins on letters from the First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, Texas, Mr. Clifton Dorsey, Mrs. Ruby Dorsey, Janie Mae Dorsey and Mabel Lee Dorsey (children of Mr. Clifton Dorsey & his wife Mrs. Ruby Dorsey) (I. Gant, son of Mr. & Mrs. W. I. Gant), (Virginia Sue Green and Julia Green, daughters of Mr. & Mrs. Mac B. Green) Alice Richardson and Arthur Richardson, children of Mrs. Ethel Richardson, Jack Graves, Jr. (son of Jack Graves, Sr.), Glen Crawford (son of Mrs. Fannie Crawford) all on profession of faith in Jesus Christ. Mrs. Nettie Norwood, on Statement from Episcopal Church. Session took recess until tomorrow, Sunday, June 26th. Session recommenced after

[Page 105] divine Worship at 4 o'clock P.M. at which time Rev. H. M. Perkins was installed Pastor of this Church, pursuant to order of Presbytery, Rev. W. B. Currie, presiding, preaching sermon, propounding the Constitutional Questions and charging the pastor and Mr. R. Y. Mills charging the people. Mrs. G. H. Temple and Mrs. Alice Holmes were received on letters from the Presbyterian Church, Gloster, Miss. All the members received at this Meeting were now publicly received and welcomed by being given the right hand of fellowship by the session and their names ordered enrolled. Session Closed with Closing prayer of the Service. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clk.

Norwood Pres. Church, July 15/21 Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood, Joe L. Street. Session was Called to meet for the purpose of reorganizing the Sunday School. The following officers & teachers were appointed. Mr. Mac B. Green, Superintendent, I. D. Norwood Assistant, [Page 106] J. T. Sebastain Sec. & Treasurer. Teachers Miss G. H. Temple, Mrs. Ellen E. Norwood, Mrs. May Sebastain, Mrs. H. M. & H. L. Perkins. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, Aug. 20/21 Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Mrs. Hattie Dickerson by her own request asked for her letter of dismission to Unite with the Comite Pres. Church of Amite Co. Miss. her request was granted. No further business, Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, I. D. Norwood, Clerk of Session.

Norwood Pres. Church, Aug. 26/21 Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Motion was made and carried that a Congregational Meeting be held on the third Sunday of Sept. for [Page 107] the purpose of electing one additional Ruling Elder & two Deacons. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clek Session.

Norwood Pres. Church, Sept. 11/21 Sept. 11, 1921, 11 o'clock A.M. this being the day and hour set by the Session for the ordination and installation of the brethren recently elected by the Congregation to the office of Ruling Elder & Deacon in this church, of which due notice had been given by order of the Session, the Congregation having assembled, the Session was Convened and opened by prayer in the presence of the people and proceeded to & did ordain to & installed in the office of Ruling Elder Mr. L. C. Field & into the office of Deacon, Mr. F. L. Norwood & Mr. Leroy Graves, Agreeably to the Word of God according to Pages 111 & 112 Book of Church Order. There were present Pastor Rev. H. M. Perkins & Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. Closed with prayer & Apostatic benediction. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk Session.

[Page 108] Norwood Pres. Church, Oct. 2nd, 1921 Session Met Opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. On motion Mr. L. C. Field was chosen principle Representative & I. D. Norwood Alternate to presbytery which is to Convene in the Pres. Church, Clinton, La., Oct. 11th at 7:30 P.M. On Motion I. D. Norwood was chosen principle & J. L. Street Alternate Representative to the Meeting of La. Synod which is to Convene in the 2nd Church Shreveport, La. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clk. Session.

Norwood Pres. Church Jan 22/22 Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod. Present Elders I. D. Norwood & J. L. Street. By his own request Mr. J. D. Caulfield asked for his letter of Dismissal to unite with the Presbyterian Church of Jackson, La., was granted. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 109] Norwood Pres. Church, Norwood, La., Mar 5/22 Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. By their own request Mr. & Mrs. W. L. Byers were granted letters of dismissal to unite with the Methodist Church of Gillum, La., and F. C. Street his letter to unite with the First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery, Alabama. Mr. W. H. Caulfield at his own request was granted letters of dismissal to unite with the First Presbyterian Church of Alexandria, La. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Adopted. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, Norwood, La., April 2/1922 Session met at close of divine worship of 11 AM. Pres and presiding Rev. H. M. Perkins, Modr. and Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood, J. L. Street and L. C. Field. Opened with prayer. Mrs. Beatrice Graves (wife of Mr. Jack Graves) presented herself and was received into full communion from the M. E. Church South upon restatement of her faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Deacons were directed to purchase a new Sessional Record Book.

[Page 110] The church Roll was purged and membership found to be at present Resident Communicating Members, 75, Nonresident Communicating Members, 9. Total number communicating Members, 84. Elder L. C. Field was appointed representative to spring meeting of Presbytery to convene at Alexandria, La., on April 11th, 1922, and Elder I. D. Norwood was appointed Alternate. Reports to Presbytery were made and approved and are as follows. Statistics: Elders, 4; Deacons, 3; Added on Examination, 11; Added on Certificates and Statements, 13; Total, 24; Res. Communicants, 75; Non-Res., 9; Grand Total, 84. Adult Baptisms, 0; Infant Baptisms, 1; Sabbath School enrollment, 57. Contributions Foreign Missions, $26.00. Assmbl. H.M., None. Synods H.M., $116.00. Pres. H.M., $50. Congrl. H.M., none. Chr. Educ. & Minis. Relief, none. S.S. Extension & Publication, none. Educational Institutions, $14.00. Bible Cause, $7.60. Orphans Home, $12.50. Total Benevolences, $226.10. Current Expenses (282) & Pres. Tax (17), $299.00. Pastor's salary paid, $900.00. Miscel. Contris, $106.00. Total Totals, $1199.00. Grand total all contributions, $1425.10. Per capita contributions, resident members, $19.00.

[Page 111] Narrative: Preaching services held regularly, two or three sabbaths each month. Per centate of attendance of members, M60, E30. Prayer Meeting none. Rec'd into church on profession, 11. by letter & statement, 13. Present membership, 75. Res., 9. Non-res., total 84. Additions from S.S., 7. Evangelistic meeting held improving spiritual life of church and community greatly. Families holding family worship, 10%. Members family Altar 1. Communion services held, 2. about 60% of members attending same. Members observe Lords day well. Members are faithful in presenting children for baptism. Some parents teach catechisms to children, and small children are taught catechism in S.S. Pupils do not memorize scriptures to any great extent. Principles of stewardship are taught by the pastor. Tithers, one. Did not pay apportionment in full. Salary promised pastor, $800, and $900 was paid. Worldly conformity does not obtain to any great extent. No evangelistic work carried outside of own church. Efforts have been made to secure recruits for the ministry. One additional Ruling Elder, and two Deacons, have been elected, ordained and installed, and pastor has also been installed. Session was closed with prayer. H. M. Perkins, Modr. Adopted. I. D. Norwood, Clerk of Session.

[Page 112] April 7th, 1922. All minutes of Session since last meeting of Presbytery read and approved. H. M. Perkins, Pastor. I. D. Norwood, J. L. Street, Ruling Elders. Approved with following exception: April 7th, record with no indication of whether it was a regular meeting of session or not. H. M. Perkins, Mod.

July 2nd, 1922. Session met at the church immediately after worship at the morning hour and there being present Rev. H. M. Perkins, pastor and Moderator, and Ruling Elder I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street, was opened with prayer. At their own request letters of dismission to St. Johns M. E. Church South, Houston, Texas, were granted to Mr. Mac B. Green, Mrs. Julia Green, his wife, and Sue and Julia Green their children. After which Session closed with prayer. H. M. Perkins, Modr., I. D. Norwood, Clerk of Session.

[Page 113] Oct. 1st, 1922. Session met immediately after morning worship. Present Rev. H. M. Perkins, Modr., and Elders I. D. Norwood and J. L. Street. Opened with prayer. Elder I. D. Norwood was appointed representative to Presbytary to convene at Lafayette, La., Oct. 3rd, inst., and Elder L. C. Field alternate. Closed with prayer. H. M. Perkins, Modr.

Nov. 5th/22. Session met immediately after morning worship. Present Rev. H. M. Perkins, Modr. and Ruling Elders I. D. Norwood, J. L. Street, and L. C. Field. Mrs. Hattie Lewis Dickerson presented herself and was received into full fellowship upon certificate from the Comite Pres. Church. Elder J. L. Street was appointed as representative to meeting of Synod of Louisiana to meet in 1st Pres. Church of Alexandria, La., on Nov. 21st 1922 and Elder I. D. Norwood was appointed alternate to same. Closed with prayer. H. M. Perkins, Modr., I. D. Norwood, Clerk of Session.

[Page 114] Session met this date. Opened with prayer. Present [blank] On their own request letters of dismission were granted to Mrs. H. M. Perkins, to Presbyterian Church of Garyville, La., and H. L. Perkins and his wife, Mrs. Annie Perkins to the First Presbyterian Church of Baton Rouge, La. Ruling Elder I. D. Norwood was appointed as representative to meeting of Pres., La., at Oakdale, La., April 10/23, and Ruling Elder J. L. Street was appointed as alternate. Reports to Presbytery were made and approved and are as follows. Statistics. Res. Communicants, 69, Non-Res., 8. Total, 77.

[Page 115] Norwood Pres. Church, Norwood, La. July 13/24 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. Mr. Pharr, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood and Joe L. Street. Miss Elizabeth S. Norwood presented herself before the Session, and on examination as to her faith in Jesus Christ, having been baptized in infancy was received in full Communion of the Church. No further business Session Closed with prayer. Rev. Mr. Pharr, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Pres. Church, July 27/1924 Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. Mr. Pharr, Moderator. Present Elders I. D. Norwood and L. C. Field. Mr. J. L. Street's resignation to retire from the Eldership of this Church was presented and after due consideration was granted, this was very much regretted, but Mr. Street was determined to get out, so we felt it right to grant his request. Mr. B. S. Graves by his own request asked for his letter of dismissal to unite with the First Methodist Church of Baton Rouge, was granted. Rev. Pharr, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 116] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Aug. 31/24 Session met, opened with prayer. Rev. C. A. Pharr, Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. Miss Johnnie Richardson appeared before the session. On statement of having formerly been a member of the Wilson M. E. Church South, this church having been disbanded. On motion she was duly received in full Communion of the church. Session closed with prayer. Rev. C. A. Pharr, Mod., I. D.Norwood, Clerk.

April 15: Minutes of Sessional record approved as far as Written. There were no Session Meetings after 31 Aug. 1924 and no statistical or Benevolent records Written for the Book. E. S. Brainard, Mod.

[Page 117] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Aug 9th, 1925. On this date there closed a protracted meeting at the Presbyterian Church, conducted by Rev. E. M. Stewart of DeRidder, La., and Rev. J. F. Eddins, who is supplying our [church] for the present. At the close of the services today, when invitation was made for any who desired to unite with the Church, Mr. Malcolm Cason Came forward, as no quorum of Session was available, Rev. J. F. Eddins and Elder I. D. Norwood proceeded to receive Mr. Malcolm Cason into the Membership of the Church on the ground of his statement that he [was] a member of the Presbyterian Church at Port Gibson and desires to be enrolled here. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 118] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., March 7th, 1926. Session met opened with prayer. Rev. O. Sanden, Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. On Motion Mrs. Hattie Lewis Dickerson was granted her letter to unite with the Presbyterian Church Centreville, Miss., by her own request. No further business, Session Closed with prayer. Rev. O. Sanden, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Apr. 11. 1926. The session met at the church, opened with prayer by Rev. O. E. Sanden who acted as Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. On motion Mr. Abel Norwood was granted his letter to unite with the Pyrtania St. Presbyterian Church at New Orleans. Elder L. C. Field was chosen to represent the church at the meeting of the Presbytery at Lake Charles, La., which meets Apr. 13. Elder I. D. Norwood elected to serve as alternate. The reports for Presbytery were read and approved by the session. No further business, session was adjourned by prayer. Rev. E. O. Sanden, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 119] Approved in open session of Presbytery at Lake Charles on Apr. 14, 1926, with exceptions; 1st, that minutes dated Aug. 9-25 were not opened or closed with prayer, 2nd Statistical reports adopted Apr. 11-26 not recorded in book. S. D. Byers[?], Mod.

[Page 120] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Aug. 23rd, 1926. Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. O. E. Sanden, Moderator. Present Elder I. D. Norwood. Mr. Nelson Haynes and Alvis Lipscomb came before session. After examination as to their faith in Christ and administering baptism, Mr. Nelson Haynes was received in full Membership of the Church. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. O. E. Sanden, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Aug. 29th, 1926. Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. O. E. Sanden, Moderator. Present Elder I. D. Norwood. Frank Richardson and Richner Lipscomb Came before session. After examination as to their faith in Christ was received in full membership of the Church both from Sunday School. Miss Julia N. Renbeau[?] was also received in full membership by letter. Session closed with prayer. Rev. O. E. Sanden, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 121] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Mar. 27/27 Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Fields and I. D. Norwood. On motion Elder L. C. Fields was chosen to represent the Church at the Meeting of La. Presbytery which will take place on the 12th of April at the Plains Presbyterian Church and I. D. Norwood, Alternate. Reports to Presbytery was made up. No further business Session closed with Prayer. Statistics: Elders, 2. Deacons, 3. added on confession, 4. added on Confession, 1. Whole numbers of Communicants, 75. Contributions, Presbytery's Home Missions, $12.00. Pastor's salary paid, $300.00. Current Expenses, 42.00. Building expenses, $146.00. Total, $500.00. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 122] approved as written with the following exceptions: 1. No sessional meeting from August 29, 1926 to Mar. 27, 1927. 2. Minutes not read and approved. J. F. Eddins, Moderator.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., July 1, 1928. The Session met at close of Service during protracted Meeting Conducted by Rev. O. E. Sandin on Sunday evening July 1st invitation had been made for any to come forward to unite with the Church. The only members of Session present were Rev. J. F. Eddins, stated supply, and Edler I. D. Norwood. The following persons were admitted into the Membership of the Church by letter from first Presbyterian Church, Beaumont, Texas, namely Mrs. Anna G. Seitzlar Sebastain and her son, Henry Seitzler and daughter Graldine[?] Seitzler. Session closed with prayer. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood, La., July 15, 1928. Session met at close of services Sunday morning July 15th. Present Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. The matter was discussed as to the advisability of an church's electing additional Elders and Deacons. It was decided to Call a Congregational meeting for the purpose of electing additional officers. The date for the meeting to be determined by future appointments for preaching services, it being understood that due notice would be given all members of the time appointed for this election. Their being no further business, Session closed with prayer. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 124] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Oct 12, 1928. Session Met, Opened with prayer. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. Letter of Mrs. D. O. Byers for dismissal to unite with the Banner Elk Presbyterian Church On motion was granted. On Motion Elder L. C. Field was appointed to represent the Church at fall meeting of Presbytery which will meet at Clinton, La., on Tuesday Oct. 16th. Session closed with prayer. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk. March 16, 1929: On this date a combined Meeting of Elders and deacons was held at the home of Mr. I. D. Norwood. Present: Rev. J. F. Eddins, Elder I. D. Norwood. Deacons: J. T. Sebastian and Leroy Graves. A detailed summary of our financial situation was gone over. It was decided to undertake The "Every Member

[Page 125] Canvas". The deacons worked out a plan by which they could divide up the membership list and secure a pledge from as many Members as possible. The Meeting closed with prayer. J. F. Eddins, Moderator.

Following are the Statistics for year ending March 31, 1929: Elders, 2. Deacons, 3. Added on Certificate, 3. Communicants, 60. Sabbath School enrollment, 47. Contributions: Foreign Missions 28 Assembly Home Missions 10 Christian Education & MR 17 Publications & S.S. Work 11 Orphan's Home 15 Educational Institutions 10 90 Pastor's Salary paid 115 Current Expenses 109 Building Expense 216 Miscellaneous 40 570 Grand Total

[Page 126] Approved in Presbytery at Lake Charles April 17, 1928 with the following exceptions (1) meetings more than three months apart (2) Some meetings not opened with prayer. W. F. Cason, Mod.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Nov. 17th, 1929: Session Met at Close of divine Worship of 11 A.M. Pres and presiding Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod. and Ruling Elder I. D. Norwood. Opened with prayer. I. D. Norwood was chosen as representation to the La. Synod which is to convene in First Church Baton Rouge La. on the 19th. No further business Session adjourned. Rev. J. F. Eddins, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 127] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Jan. 5th, 1930: Session Met, opened with prayer. Rev. A. G. Davis, Mod. Present Elders L. C. Field, and I. D. Norwood. It was agreed to call a congregational meeting after divine worship 11 A.M. for the purpose of electing one additional Elder and one Deacon. No further Business session adjourned. Rev. A. G. Davis, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Church, Mar. 16th, 1930: Session Met opened with prayer. Rev. A. G. Davis, Mod. Present Elders L. C. Field and I. D. Norwood. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Milne presented themselves and was received into full communion. Mr. Milne by letter from the Jackson Presbyterian Church and Mrs. Milne from the M. E. Church South upon restatement in her faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. No further Business session closed. Rev. A. G. Davis, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 128] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Sept. 7, 1930: At close of the sermon the door of the church was opened. Mr. and Mrs. John Harris with their infant daughter Mary Ann joined by letter from the Trinity Presbyterian Church of Jonesville, La. Session Met. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod. Elders present were L. C. Field, I. D. Norwood and Joe L. Street. Received Mr. & Mrs. Harris in full Communion of the Church. Session closed with the Benediction. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Dec. 21, 1930: At close of morning worship services the door of the church was opened, Clement Street came forward. Session Met. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., present Elders L. C. Field, I. D. Norwood and Joe L. Street. After examination as to his faith in Jesus Christ, was received in full communion of the church having been baptized in infancy. Session Closed with benediction. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 129] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., Jan. 18, 1931: At Close of the Morning service the invitation was extended to anyone who wish to unite with church. Miss Mary Helen Temple came forward. Session met, Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., Present Elders I. D. Norwood, and Joe L. Street. After examination as to her faith in Jesus Christ Miss Mary Helen Temple was received into the Church, having been baptized in infancy. Mrs. Alice Richard, & her two children, Miss Alice & Frank, with their own request asked for letters of dismissal to unite with the second Pres. Church of Baton Rouge. This request was granted. No further business. Session Closed with prayer. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 130] Norwood Presbyterian Church, Norwood, La., 4/5/31: Session Met Opened with prayer. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Moderator. Present Elders L. C. Field, I. D. Norwood and Joe L. Street. Mr. Street was appointed as Representation to Spring Presbytery which is to meet at the Plains Presbyterian Church on April 14th. No further business. Session Closed with Prayer. Rev. W. O. Nelson, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

{The session minutes end at this point. The minute book then begins recording congregational meeting minutes.}

[Page 150] Congregational Meeting Comite Church, Oct. 19, 1902: At a congregational meeting held this day for the purpose of election of two Elders and two Deacons. The motion to postpone the election of Elders to some future time was Carried. Mr. J. T. Sebastain and Ben S. Graves were duly elected to the office of Deacon in this Church. Mr. N. P. Reagan having formerly been a Deacon in this church, was reelected to that office. No further business the meeting adjourned. Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator, I. D. N., Clerk.

Comite Church, Nov. 2nd, 1902: At a Congregational meeting held this day for the election of two Ruling Elders. Mr. Thos. A. Graves and Dr. A. Gayden were duly elected to said office. And it was agreed by the Session that upon their acceptance of said office they with the Newly elected Deacons be ordained and set apart to their offices, on the 3rd Sabbath of this Month. No further business the meeting closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. N., Clerk.

[Page 151] Comite Church, Nov. 23, 1902: At a Congregational meeting held this day for the purpose of electing one Ruling Elder in place of Dr. A. Gayden who was elected at a previous meeting declined to accept the office. Mr. Ben Graves Sr. was elected to said office and accepted same. The newly elected officers will be ordained at our next preaching day. No further business Meeting closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. N., Clerk.

Comite Church, Jan. 4th, 1903: Pursuant to a regular Call for a Congregational Meeting, the congregation met in the Comite Presbyterian Church, Jan. 4th, 1903. Rev. M. B. Shaw was invited to act as Moderator. After prayer the Meeting was Called to order. A Motion was made, seconded, discussed and Adopted, Viz, that the organization of the Comite Church be moved to Norwood, La., and that the Presbytery be overtured[?] to change the name to [Page 152] Norwood Presbyterian Church and that the building now occupied and Known as the Comite Church be sold for seven hundred dollars. The following persons were elected to examine into the title, and represent the Congregation in making said sale, also to take such steps as may be needful in affecting said sale and transfer. The Committee, viz, A. J. Norwood, J. T. Sebastain and L. C. Field. Upon Motion the same persons were appointed to take steps to raise the amount necessary to meet the obligations of D. O. Byers. No further business the Meeting was closed with prayer. Rev. M. B. Shaw, Mod., I. D. N., Clerk.

Comite Church, Norwood, La., 2/15/03: Pursuant to a regular call for a Congregational Meeting, The Congregation Met in their new Church, Norwood, La., Feb. 15th, 1903. I. D. Norwood was selected as Moderator. The meeting was called to order. Motion was made, seconded, discussed [Page 153] and adopted, viz, that the Congregation guarantee Rev. D. O. Byers Four hundred Dollars as salary for one year and ask Rev. Presbytery at next meeting for Mr. Byers Services as stated supply for one year. On Motion Mr. Byers was invited to meet with us. He accepted the salary and the Call. No further business the meeting Closed with prayer. I. D. Norwood, Mod., A. J. N., Clerk.

Comite Church, Norwood, La.: At a Congregational Meeting held Sunday, Mar. 1st, 1903, Moderated by the pastor Rev. D. O. Byers and according to previous announcement by the Session, Mr. Leroy C. Field was unanimously elected as Deacon to fill the vacancy made by the removal of Mr. Ben S. Graves from our bounds, Sabbath, Mar. 15th, was set for the ordination & installation of Mr. Field and Mr. J. T. Sebastain the latter not having yet been set apart to the office to which he was chosen Nov. last. Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod.

[Page 154] Norwood, La., May 10, 1903: A Congregational meeting was held today after services. Mr. J. T. Sebastain of the building committee made a Statement Showing that there still rested upon the church recently erected a debt of $250.00. A motion was then carried that we now attempt to lift the debt. Subscription was called for and in a short time the full amount was subscribed for its liquidation. The following members were elected Trustees of this Church. A. Gayden, M.D., Ben Graves, and T. A. Graves. After which the meeting adjourned. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. N., Clerk.

[Page 155] Norwood, La., Nov. 24/07: Public notice having been previously given by the Session, a Congregational Meeting was held at the close of the morning Service, at which the following brethren were elected as Ruling Elders in this church: Messrs. Walter McLaurin and Jos. L. Street, and W. L. Byers, Deacon. After which the Pastor announced that if the way be clear and the officers elect declare their purpose to accept, they would be publicly ordained and installed on next Sabbath. Mr. Thomas A. Graves, a member of the Board of Trustees, having removed beyond our bounds and connected himself with the Centreville (Miss.) church, Mr. J. T. Sebastain was elected to fill the vacancy caused by his removal. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod. Cong. Meeting, I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 156] Norwood Church, La., Mar. 6th, 1910: The congregational meeting was Called to order by Rev. D. O. Byers, Moderator. Elder I. D. Norwood was requested to state object of the meeting. On motion made and carried the bequest left the Church by Mrs. M. G. Folger, Deceased, Four Hundred dollars to be placed in the hands of the Trustees of the Church. Dr. A. Gayden, Ben Graves, & J. T. Sebastain, for the purpose of Keeping the Church property in repairs. Mr. Sebastain requested that the members present make up the balance due Mr. Byers on Salary, which was done as requested. The Clerk was authorized to insert in the Records that Mr. J. T. Sebastain who had been elected at a former meeting as Trustee in place of Mr. Thos Graves who moved out of the bounds of the Church and the Clerk failed to make a record of his election at the time. No further business, Closed with prayer. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk.

[Page 157] Norwood Church, Sept. 28, 1919: A Congregational meeting was held in the Norwood Presbyterian Church on Sept. 28th 1919 and was attended by a large proportion of the Active Membership of the Church. The object of the meeting was stated by I. D. Norwood, Clerk, Rev. E. C. Bingham requested that the Church concur with him in asking Presbytery to dissolve the pastoral relation existing between himself & this church, in order that he may be free to accept a professorship in Silliman Collegiate Institute, was submitted to the Congregation. A motion that the Church Concur with the request of the Pastor was carried and the session was authorized to so notify the Presbytery. Testified to & signed this Sept. 28/19. Rev. D. O. Byers, Mod., I. D. Norwood, Clerk of session.

[Page 158] Norwood Pres. Church, Sept 4/21: Pursuant to Call, the Congregation of this Church met at the Church, on Sunday Sept 4th, 1921.After divine worship, at the Morning hour, the Congregation was Called to order and a "Congregational Meeting" for the purpose of electing additional Ruling Elders and Deacons if the way was clear thereto, was Constituted with prayer. The pastor, Rev. H. M. Perkins, presided and Deacon, J. T. Sebastain was elected Secretary. It was moved & adopted that Congregation proceed to the election of one additional Ruling Elder. Mr. L. C. Field was nominated & unanimously elected as a Ruling Elder in this church. It was moved & adopted that the Congregation proceed to the election of two additional Deacons. Messrs. F. L. Norwood & LeRoy Graves were Nominated and unanimously elected as Deacons in this Church. By order of the Session Notice was then given that these brethren should they accept, would be ordained to and installed in their respective offices at the Church at the 11 o'clock service on Sunday Sept. 11, 1931.

[Page 159] Congregational Meeting then adjourned with the apostolic benediction. Rev. H. M. Perkins, Mod., J. T. Sebastain, Secy.

Approved at Plains Church, Apr. 15, 1931, R. G. Newsome, Mod.

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Transcribed and contributed by Claude Slaton, from Session Minutes, Volume 2 (1901-1931)

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