MR WATSON AND THE “CHURCH NEWS.”

Globe, Volume II, Issue 141, 14 November 1874, Page 2

MR WATSON AND THE “CHURCH NEWS.”

To the Editor of the Olohe. Si]?,—The remarks made by Mr Watson at the late meeting of Synod have given great satisfaction to a very large number of earnest churchmen. The repeated use of the words ‘ ‘ altar, ” matins, and evensong, and many others of the like kind by the Chvrch News is certainly obnoxious to, I believe, the great majority of members of the Church. As to the word altar, the compilers of the Liturgy seem to have taken especial care to avoid its use. The Lord’s table may be placed in the body of the church; and as to matins and evensong, I have not seen the words in any Prayerbook except in the calendar, and that only in comparatively few, for I have four Prayerbooks in which they do not appear even there. The Prayerhook is denominated the “Book of Common Prayer, with the order for morning and evening prayer.” Again, choral services are always highly commended. I have no objection to their use by those who prefer them ; but I and many others prefer a plain service. lam sure there is more heartiness where all can join in the service. “ Hymns Ancient and Modern” are a stumbling-block to many. They contain absolutely false doctrine.

It is a remarkable fact that those who, twenty years ago, used the words above referred to, are now in England among the most advanced ritualists. Much has been said in the Church News about the “ Union of Christians,” but I must say that the writers in it appear to throw insuperable obstacles in the way of such a desirable object.

I am afraid I have taken up too much of your valuable space, but the subject is one that is attracting very great attention. Yours, &c.,