Sermons and some tracts on various and important subjects

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1832. Excerpt: ... THE EXCELLENCY OF THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH, BRIEFLY CONSIDERED, AS CONNECTED WITH HER LITURGY AND FORMULARIES; WITH A CAUTION TO THOSE WHO WOULD ATTEMPT TO ALTER, UNDER COLOUR OF IMPROVING THEM: IN A LETTER THE REV. PETER ROE. THE EXCELLENCY OF THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH, &c. &c. My Dear Sir, As you expressed a wish that I should communicate to you, my sentiments concerning the excellencies of the Church of England, in the primitive and apostolic simplicity of her constitution and services; and the danger to be apprehended from any innovation on that simplicity, or departure from it; I shall cheerfully comply with your request. I am well convinced, that the more the character and principles of the United Church of England and Ireland are investigated and known, the higher she will rise in the estimation of every impartial and candid enquirer; while even some good men, who feel that they cannot conscientiously join in her communion, will, notwithstanding, "wish her good luck in the name of the Lord." I am confident, that, the more minutely the investigation is made respecting her, the more light there will be thrown on this ancient edifice; not only more clearly exhibiting her many prominent beauties, but also discovering those latent excellencies, which are, perhaps, unnoticed by the less observing passenger. There are, indeed, many parts of the building, which had, no doubt, a peculiar fitness in the eyes of the workmen who reared the edifice, but which, it is to be feared, are not now sufficiently known and valued by the modern observer: from whence it happens, that in this day of reform and innovation, many may be found, who would, under colour of improving and modernizing the building, remove a great part of the foundation to the endangering of the whole. I...