A Plain Account of the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church in America Being an Outline of Her History and Polity; Also, Her Prospective Work

FOR some time I have thought of the propriety of writing this little volume, in order to diffuse certain information among the members and friends of our Church, and others, who have a desire to know something concerning the Church. It is evident that many things have been said and done to place the C. M. E. Church in a "false light" before the religious world. It is expedient, therefore, that some one step forward and speak in defense of her cause, her good name, and her divine objects. This is a progressive age. All things seem to be on an onward march. New developments are being made daily. There is much information to be gained from all sources. Ample fields are spread before us, in which we can labor and learn much to our own benefit, as well as for future generations. Persons wishing to become members of any organization should, in the first place, know its name, and, as far as practicable, acquaint themselves with the benefits to be derived therefrom, learn of its requirements, decide as to whether or not it will suit their ideas. Having done this, they can then decide whether or not they will conform to such regulations. With such information, they can be fully prepared to exercise a proper judgment in their choice. In this little volume I have tried to be as plain as possible, and to so arrange everything as to make it easily understood by all. I desired to have a brief sketch of all the Annual Conferences; but, failing to receive the information desired, I was (to my regret) compelled to omit some of them, and leave off the statistics altogether. The paper prepared by Brother R. T. Moss cannot fail to give general satisfaction to all who read it.