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The appropriateness making mention of Donald Cox in this section of the assembly history must be obvious to all. True, he has not gone abroad to a distant land, but he and his family had to learn another language, French. They had also to master, at least to a considerable degree, another culture; this can be very difficult for some. While [[Quebec][] is neighbor to ][[Ontario]][[Quebec][] , it presents some of the problems of a foreign country to one who knows only the English language and culture.In 1958 Donald Cox was commended to the work of the Lord in Quebec jointly by the assemblies in MacNab Street, Hamilton, Ontario, and [[Palos Hills Christian Assembly, IL|86th Street]], Chicago, [[Illinois]], U.S.A. For fourteen years our brother has diligently served the Lord in Drummondville. After these many years in that city, our brother became exercised before the Lord to move to the Gaspe Peninsula. He now lives in Ste-Anne-des-Monts, Gaspe Nord, [[Quebec]]. This is some four hundred miles north of his former home. In this northern area there is ample scope for pioneering. There are numerous towns and villages surrounding Ste-Anne-des-Monts, and in these some contacts have been made through radio and television ministry. A deep concern of our brother is that there are no French assemblies throughout the Gaspe Peninsula.]

For fourteen ==Chapter Seven - "Messengers of the Churches"==[[Quebec][] "They are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love" (II Cor. 8:23-24).That the Lord has sustained the MacNab assembly by efficient administration and by the ministry of spiritual gifts, which he has developed locally, has been fully demonstrated. He also has supplemented these services and ministries by using other servants of Christ who, from elsewhere, have taken up residence in the Hamilton area. These beloved brethren, although establishing their homes in the City, continued their itinerant ministry among the assemblies in [[Canada]] and the [[United States]].One of the earliest of these, if not the earliest, was Joseph Douglas. This brother was born in Limivady, [[Northern Ireland|Ireland]], on July 13, 1869. In youth, before God saved him, he was pursuing the necessary education to become an attorney at law, but he eventually dismissed this objective and immigrated to the [[United States]] where he took up residence in Detroit, [[Michigan]]. There he learned from [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]] the ways of the Lord more perfectly and some years later was commended to full time work for God by the [[Central Gospel Hall, Detroit, MI|Central Assembly]], Detroit. He was not very robust, but when cautioned by the doctor to take things more easily, he replied, "How can I when there is so much to do?" he literally wore himself out in the service of the Lord.From Detroit he moved to Newbury, ][[Ontario]][[Quebec][] , and from there to Hamilton where his presence and ministry were a benefit to the MacNab Assembly.Because of the condition of Mrs. Douglas' health, he was forced to move back to Detroit so that his wife, who suffered from severe paralysis, might be with her sisters. Although he was probably only two years in Hamilton, he became well known and greatly loved and highly respected.While visiting back in Newbury, he contracted pneumonia and passed home to be with the Lord on November 28, 1904, at 36 years our of age. In the copy of ''Our Record'' for the month that followed, [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]] wrote in the obituary: "Another of those who can be so ill be spared has gone from us, to be with the Lord".The family took the remains to Hamilton for burial, where brethren D. Munro and W.P. Douglas (no relative) spoke the word."Among the church notices in the Hamilton Herald, April 18, 1914, a newspaper long since discontinued, there is an insertion which reads: "Christians gathered unto the name of the Lord Jesus Christ meet at the Gospel Hall, 140 MacNab Street North. Lord's Day: Breaking of Bread, 11:00 a.m., Sunday School and Bible Class, 2:45 p.m. Mr. Robert McCrory from Ulster and Mr. George Duncan from Cleveland will preach at 3:45 and 7:00 p.m."This apparently was the announcement of brother has diligently served McCrory's first visit to the City, he later adopted as his home. He had immigrated to [[Canada]] in 1910, but in 1914 moved from the Maritime Provinces to Hamilton. There he resided until 1961 when, after the passing of his wife, he returned to Ireland.There he went home to be with the Lord in DrummondvilleOctober, 1964.It was written of him: "He was a man of the Book and ever sought to expound its meaning. When conflicting influences would have divided, and in some parts did, the assemblies, he firmly attested to the supreme authority of the Holy Scriptures in ALL MATTERS OF church administration. After these When amillenarian doctrine was being propagated among some of the assemblies, distressing the minds of God's people, his clear teaching on the doctrine of the imminent return of the Lord preserved in many hearts the living hope of the soon return of the heavenly bridgegroom."Brother David Kirk a fellow-countryman of Robert McCrory, also started his service in Canada in the Maritime Provinces, but eventually moved to Hamilton, [[Ontario]]. He was on a visit to Ireland at the time of brother McCrory's final illness and death. Brother Kirk was able to visit him and along with Robert Wright formerly of Japan, he conducted the funeral services.Brother Kirk was reared in Belfast, [[Northern Ireland|Ireland]], and as a youth found all the needs of his heart in the Ebenezer Assembly of that City.In it he was saved, baptized, received into church fellowship, and from that assembly in August of 1931, he was commended, in a full time capacity to the work of the Lord in [[Canada]]. He lived and labored from the time of his arrival until 1942 principally in the Maritime Provinces, but that year he moved to Stirling, Ontario. During the years he lived there his service for the Lord expanded to a wider sphere of ministry. Finally, in that city1948, our brother became exercised before came and settled in Hamilton, and ever since has been in intimate fellowship in the MacNab, now the Lord West Fifth Assembly. His presence and his ministry are a blessing to move the saints in the assembly.It is appropriate that brother Donald Moffatt be mentioned in this chapter. He has given many years of his life to the Gaspe Peninsuladissemination of the truth of God. He labored for years in [[Newfoundland]], Canada, and while there founded the radio broadcast, ''Family bible Hour''. This broadcast, of which he is still a director, today is heard in many parts of the world. It has brought life and instruction to large numbers of listeners, both saved and unsaved.After brother Moffatt left [[Newfoundland]], he spent some years on the Pacific Coast preaching the gospel and ministering God's Word among the assemblies. Eventually he returned east and settled in Hamilton, making MacNab Assembly his home. Although now lives engaged in secular business, he still spends much time in Steministry among assemblies and at conferences. He faithfully serves the [[West Fifth Bible Chapel, Hamilton, ON|West Fifth Assembly]] with other elders seeking to shepherd the flock of God within which he has located.] ==Chapter Eight -Anne-des-Monts"Gather Together"==[[Quebec][] "Gather My saints together unto Me; those that have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice" (Psalms 50:5).One of the practices that has contributed to the spiritual health and vigor of the assembly at MacNab Street, Hamilton, is the annual convention. In the early years the three day conference was conducted around the time of the New Year. [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]] gives an account of the first of these conferences in the chapter entitled "Canadian Recollections" in the biography of Mr. Donald Ross. He writes: "I remember... the first conference held in Hamilton, [[Ontario]], or, for that matter, among the assemblies gathered to the name of the Lord on this side of the water.The date was, I think, New Year, 1877."There is a note in ''The Witness'' of December 1927, in which the same brother, T.D.W. Muir, tells who the speakers were at this first conference. He writes: "I have just returned from attendance at the 53rd Convention held annually at Hamilton, Ontario. It is now held at Canadian Thanksgiving time. I was at the first one when about 75 were gathered from the [[United States]] and [[Canada]]. Such stalwarts as Donald Ross, Gaspe NordDonald Munro, [[QuebecJohn Smith]], James Campbell, James Smith, Henry Ironside, John Carnie and others were with us. This year nearly 1,000 came together." "Donald Ross' address (given at that first conference) deeply impressed many. He spoke from John's Gospel Chapter 21.""Many," continues brother Muir, "who were at that conference have gone home to glory since then, but many are still with us, and there are few of them who heard those words that have forgotten them. The savor of them still lives."The fifth conference, that of 1881 was advertised in ''The Barley Cake'' (an assembly magazine edited by Donald Ross) of December 1880. It reads: "Christian Convention in Hamilton, Ontario, on 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th of January, 1881. The 'Larkin Hall' situated on John Street near King has been secured for the meetings. The meetings will be as follows: On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, for prayer, praise and ministry of the Word, at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. On Lord's Day, 16th, January: Breaking of Bread at 10 a.m. Ministry of the Word, 2 p.m. Gospel Meeting 7 p.m."In a report covering that conference we read: "Gospel meetings were held in the evenings, and were addressed by brethren: [[John Smith|Smith]], A. Marshall, W.P. Charles, J. Grimason, J.N. Carnie, Martin, Hughes, etc. There was much blessing every evening. The last Gospel Meeting was held in the 'Grand Opera House', a newly erected building which holds 1,500, but that evening between extra seats and standing there would be, no doubt, between 1,800 and 2,000 people. The rush was such, the doors had to be closed twenty minutes before time. Hundreds on hundreds returned home, and many remained on the street in the frost and snow, and we addressed them under the canopy of heaven".Another entry reads: "These Hamilton conferences have been a very great blessing to the Lord's people, and doubtless they will continue so, as long as there is liberty to preach all God's truth unreservedly."At the beginning of 1910 the assembly began to advertise the regular meetings and special events in the ''Hamilton Herald''. These advertisements indicate that the saints enjoyed visits from such servants of Christ as: W.B. Johnston, D. McGeachy, George Duncan, Matthew Muir, [[John Smith]], [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]], W.P. Douglas, Robert McCrory, W.J. McClure, Robert Telfer, Charles Ross, Geo. Gould, etc.In the January 17th 1914 issue of the ''Herald'' there is an announcement of the 39th Christian Conference. For some four reason it was late that year; scheduled for January 23rd-25th. The meetings on Friday and Saturday were held in the Gospel Hall, 140 MacNab Street. On the Lord's Day they were held in the Association Hall corner of James and Jackson Streets.The ''Herald'' also carries an advertisement in its issue of January 14, 1916, of another conference scheduled for January 21st-23rd. All these meetings, with the exception of the prayer meeting which was held in the Gospel Hall, were held in the I.O.O.F. temple on Gore Street in downtown Hamilton.In the I.O.O.F. building the Hamilton Annual Conference was held for many years; in fact, until it burned down on November 2-3, 1939. Imagination, activated by memory, pictures happy scenes during the occasions. Even now it is not difficult to visualize George Gould senior on the platform preaching from the text, "This Man receiveth sinners and eateth with them".Nor is it hard to recall the advice to younger servants of the Lord given W.J. McClure. He spoke, so he said, as a father among us and gave us words of instruction, encouragement and caution.How nostalgic are the recollections of delightful fellowship with beloved brethren such as Charles Ross, Leonard Sheldrake, Tom Wilkie, John Ferguson, John Dickson, Ben Bradford, Robert Crawford, George Shivas, Dr. Matthews, Fred Nugent, C.F. Hogg, and a host of others. What delightful experiences they were! The conferences which had been so beneficial to so many both at home in Hamilton and in other cities and towns did not end with the conflagration that destroyed the I.O.O.F. temple. The brethren sought out another large auditorium, The Scottish Rite Cathedral, and there for many more years the annual conferences were held with equal interest and profit.Through certain circumstances and with the building of the West Fifth Chapel, the conferences for three years have been held in the assembly auditorium. Emmanuel is Jehovah. "God with us" is the Eternal Immutable One. Any change of location does not in anywise affect Him. His promise is true, "Lo, I am with you alway."A journalist's account of the 79th Annual Conference, written by Mrs. George Bentley, which appeared in the Hamilton Spectator on Oct. 9, 1954:'''Christian Conference recalls early customs''':The weekend will see again an unusual occasion which has occurred yearly for 79 years since this city's early days. Several hundred miles visitors are fed and lodged for two full days, mostly... even today... through volunteer provision.'''Offered their best''':The seventy-ninth annual conference of Christians continues, as from its earliest days, to draw large numbers from out of town as well as this district. It is held under the auspices of the MacNab Street Gospel Hall.One of the few such gatherings in this country in early times, the purpose was to provide ministry of the Word of God to Christians who were isolated from worship and fellowship throughout rural areas at that time. Then, it was held in January, the slack time of the year for country people. Mother and Father bundled themselves and the whole family into the horse and wagon or "rig", leaving the hired man to do the chores, and set off for Hamilton. With them they brought provisions, such as a pair of geese, a barrel of apples, or a sack of potatoes... all the best they had, as a kind of "first fruit" contribution to the occasion.Though the MacNab Street group of Christians was a small assembly of far less than 100 then, who met in a hall at Merrick and MacNab Streets, they made room in their homes for all who came. Hospitality has always been one of the principles of the conference.'''Everyone welcome''':Some of the older members of today remember the upheavals in their homes. Their parents made room for up to two dozen visitors. Collapsible beds were brought out. When mattresses fell short, mattress covers filled with fresh soft straw served. In every available corner of their homes visitors were welcomed. Meantime, the latter found places such as the old horse market of those days on John Street to "put up" their horses and wagons.Away back in the 1870's and '80's, they held these conferences in the old YMCA and the Treble Hall north of his former homeKing on John Street. For meals, they had to go to a nearby hall where volunteers cooked and served hot meals."We used to walk over singing hymns as lustily as we could, and none objected", recalls a daughter of one of those early members.'''Amazing Ability''':The meals, which today are served to seven or eight hundred people for two full days, have always been hearty, well prepared, and served by volunteers. By a long tried system, hundreds sit down to meals which go "like clock-work".The men assist with conference planning and in the services. The women do not have any public part, but on them falls much of the work for actual hospitality. In this northern area But always there is ample scope one capable volunteer man in charge of the kitchen and dining room arrangements, and others are on hand for the heavier work and washing dishes.The women still preserve extra fruit for pioneeringthe conference, and make cakes and cookies and pickles. Other supplies are purchased wholesale and prepared by the volunteers in the huge quantities needed. The pies they used to make are now mostly bought. Billeting is not so much needed now, most coming by car.'''From small beginning''':For people who cannot remember early days, it is recalled that the MacNab Street group of Christians began with street corner preaching. Then the handful met in a small hall at Merrick and MacNab Streets, where they are listed in an 1879 directory as Plymouth Brethren. Preachers from outside [[Canada]] visited them. There were fiery men in those days: a [[John Smith]], a Donald Munro, a David Oliver, a Ben Bradford, and a [[Thomas David William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]]. Such men were itinerant preachers going up and down the continent preaching the gospel and a simple faith and manner of worship.These preachers would often arrive a week or two before the conference and conduct prayer meetings. Prayer meetings are numerous towns still held in the week before. Often, a series of Gospel and Bible study meetings followed the conference.'''Stalwarts of Old''':Some of the earliest folk touched by the ministry of those days and responsible for starting the conference were: Mr. and Mrs. Tom Renton, whose home still overlooks the Bay on Bay Street North, the former being a signal inspector with the Old Grand Trunk Railway; (See [[Railroad]] for more Brethren who served in that industry.) Mr. and Mrs. William Duncan, who lived at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dundurn_Castle Dundurn Castle], the former being city gardener for many years. Mr. and Mrs. William Mullings, Mr. Mullings being a cooper on Mulberry Street; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carter; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kennedy, the former, a foreman at the cotton company; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Passmore; Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Mortimer, the former a sailor newly arrived from [[Newfoundland]] in the hope that his family would have a better chance here; a Mr. and Mrs. William Goodfellow, Mr. Charles Quee a veteran of the Crimean War; Mr. and villages surrounding SteMrs. Peter Carroll, the former a pattern-Annemaker; and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Anderson.'''Faithful Descendants''':While there are many newcomers in the assembly, quite a few children and grandchildren of old-des-Montstimers are taking part this weekend. This conference is still anticipated with the enthusiasm that marked its beginnings. They find Christian fellowship and the encouragement and inspiration received from gathering in large numbers. They worship, pray, and hear preaching together from able preachers. But they feel the real results depend on the blessing of God. All the effort in these more complicated times to carry such an occasion through is worth it if people receive spiritual blessing.'''Simple Services''':With simplicity always the keynote, the only music is congregational singing. The conference begins this evening in the MacNab Street Hall when visitors meet their hosts for the weekend. At the Scottish Rite, the "Breaking of Bread" service is held Sunday at 10 a.m.It is followed by dinner and Sunday School for the children, with public meetings at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. On Thanksgiving Day, meetings are at the same hours. On Tuesday morning, some contacts still remain for an after-service, called "gathering up the fragments." Invitations of the conference have been made through radio sent out this year on behalf of the Assembly by messengers George Bentley, Joseph Smart and television ministryE. A deep concern . Bartmann.] ==Chapter Nine - "The Little Children"=="Jesus... said to them, suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not, for of our brother such is that there are no French assemblies throughout the Gaspe PeninsulaKingdom of God. (Mark 10:14).After a few earlier attempts which failed, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Raikes Robert Raikes] and his friend [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anson_Phelps_Stokes Stokes] were the main thrust to establishing the religious Sunday School.The first such school was opened in Gloucester, [[England]], in 1780. Their purpose was to reach particularly the children of the poor with the Word of God. Each Sunday School, whether secular (Trade Unionism and similar groups did conduct secular school on Sunday for some time) or religious requires a curriculum and a text book. This must ever be the method in an assembly Sunday School. The curriculum must be based upon the Text Book and derived from it. Our text book must not conform to our prescribed studies; our plan of studies must conform to the Divine Test (sic?) Book, The Bible.

==Chapter Seven - "Messengers Near the beginning of the its history the Hamilton assembly followed the worthy example of Raikes and Stokes; a very productive Sunday School was commenced. While we do not have authentic information regarding its start, we do have a report from a former scholar which scans that noble effort of some 70 to 75 years ago. When George Nunn in 1899 moved from Bolton to Hamilton, he transferred his interests and fellowship from the assembly at Bolton to that of MacNab Street, Hamilton. So deeply involved did he become in the work there that eventually he was a member of the Trusteeship in connection with the property of the assembly. His three children regularly attended the Sunday School. the youngest, Louis, who was born in 1892, is today a charming young lady of 31 years of age, and the manager of her own Health Food Shop in downtown Hamilton. Alert, and very acute of memory, she readily recalled her early days at the ChurchesMacNab Street Sunday School. "As a very little girl,"==[[Quebec][] began Mrs. Louise Taylor, for such is her name now, "They are I went first to the messengers of Sunday School at Bolton. Then when I was about seven, we moved to Hamilton and I went to the churchesMacNab Sunday School with my brother and sister who were quite a bit older than I. I remember how my father prayed for his children, and his children's children yet to be. It was those prayers that changed my attitude of criticism and resentfulness, for in my teens I was embittered by certain restrictions; I wished that I could go to a bigger church, I can recall getting off the glory street car at the corner of Cannon and James Streets and wanting so much to go to [https://www.knoxwaterdown.ca/about/history-knox-presbyterian-church-waterdown Knox Church]. All that resentment and grudge left when I was twenty, and I shall never forget how that one night I knelt by my bed and took Christas my Saviour. Wherefore shew ye " "You were twenty years old before you were saved," exclaimed James Gunn, breaking in upon the reminiscences. "Yes, I was. We had left MacNab before that. About 1915 we left and went to themBethany. In 1919, while in Bethany Chapel, just after partaking of the Lord's Supper, my father bowed his head and before passed away." "What a wonderful way to go home!" broke in both Gordon Thomson and James Gunn. "Yes, a very wonderful way; from the Lord's Table to the churchesLord's presence, " answered Mrs. Taylor. "Do you retain the proof memory of your loveSunday School teacher's name?" enquired Gordon Thomson. "There was a Mr. Grant," replied Mrs. Taylor. "Would that be Alex Grant's grandfather?" asked James Gunn. "No," replied Gordon Thomson, "he would be no relative." (II CorLouise continues), "I can remember listening attentively to my teacher. He was very earnest and I really took in what he said. It was not until I was well on in my teens that I criticized. 8:23" "Do you have any recollection of who the elders were in those early years, Mrs. Taylor," questioned Gordon Thomson. "O yes! There was Mr. Best, Mr. Arthur Thomas -24)a great friend of my father, Mr. Harvey Galloway, Mr. Marks, Mr. Duncan and others." "You must have been one of the earliest scholars of MacNab Sunday School," added Gordon Thomson.That "I suppose I was, the Lord has sustained Sunday School was pretty small in those days," was the reply. "It seems that apart from your father's home," suggested Gordon Thomson, "MacNab assembly was the first place where you understood the gospel." "Yes, definitely, yes, and although for a time I wanted to go to a bigger church and to parties and other places, that early teaching never left me. I feel that it was my father's prayers and that teaching which led me to kneel that night by efficient administration my bed and by give myself to the Lord." "May I ask you, Mrs. Taylor, where do you fellowship now?" queried Gordon Thomson. "Yes, I go to the Baptist Church, the ministry [https://www.hughson.ca/ Hughson Street Baptist]. After my husband died, I joined and took a class of spiritual giftsboys, which he has developed locallyand I have been teaching ever since." "You are still teaching Sunday School at 81! exclaimed both men. "Yes, has been fully demonstratedI am still teaching." "You are teaching the same truth that you yourself learned at the MacNab Sunday School those many years ago. He also has supplemented these services " "Thank you so much," said James Gunn and thus brought to close a delightful and ministries by using other servants inspiring experience. Since Mrs. Taylor was a little girl numerous sincere brethren have carried the responsibility of the Sunday School. As one Superintendent grew older, a younger was prepared to assume the duties. We thank God for the leadership of Christ such men as William Duncan, Angus Munro, Elwood Marks, William Fraser, Gordon Thomson, Alex Grant, Kenneth Jones, Stewart Jones, and for the brother whonow holds the position, from elsewhere, have Douglas Agnew. Occasionally one is asked if Sunday School work is productive and permanent. The two pictures of Mrs. Anthony Price's class answers the question better than words. A number of little children in the class picture taken in 1922 are seen in the second one taken up residence 40 years later. All in the second picture are in assemblies in Hamilton area. These beloved brethren, although establishing former scholars met together to honor their homes teacher. Such an occasion must be a real compensation for the hours spent in preparation and teaching lessons to little folk. MacNab Assembly also took a very keen interest in the City, continued their itinerant ministry among the assemblies first Sunday School Teachers' Conferences held in [[CanadaOntario]] . The earliest efforts of this kind were sponsored by Angus Munro. Other brethren quickly gave encouragement and the good support. These conferences were helped by Mervyn Paul, Ormer G.C. Sprunt, R.J. Littleproud, (all three of Toronto), William J. Pell (Grand Rapids, [[United StatesMichigan|MI]]) and others. Their counsel and instruction to younger brethren and sisters were highly appreciated. ==Chapter Ten - "The Word of God Prevailed"=="Many that believed came, and confessed and showed their deeds... so mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed" (Acts 19:18-20).

One of The life in Christ with its consequent love for Christ produced the earliest of these, if not spiritual urge to repeat the earliest, was Joseph Douglas. This brother was born operations whcih had resulted in Limivady, [[Northern Ireland|Ireland]], on July 13, 1869such blessing at MacNab Street. In youth, before God saved him, he An exercise was pursuing the necessary education to become an attorney at law, but he eventually dismissed this objective and immigrated to the [[United States]] where he took up residence created in Detroit, [[Michigan]]. There he learned from [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]] the ways of the Lord more perfectly and some years later was commended hearts to full time work for move with confidence in God by the [[Central Gospel Hall, Detroit, MI|Central Assembly]], Detroit. He was not very robust, but when cautioned by the doctor to take things in order that more easily, he replied, "How can I when there is so much to do?" he literally wore himself out local churches might be established in the service other parts of the Lord.From Detroit he moved to Newbury, [[Ontario]], and from there to Hamilton where his presence and ministry were a benefit to the MacNab Assembly.

Because About 1909, a number of Christians living in the condition East End of Mrs. Douglas' health, he was forced to move back to Detroit so that his wife, who suffered from severe paralysis, might be with her sisters. Although he was probably only two years in Hamilton, he became well known and greatly loved and highly respected.While visiting back in Newbury, he contracted pneumonia and passed home to be with the Lord city built the Ebenezer Hall on November 28, 1904, at 36 years of age. In the copy corner of ''Our Record'' for the month that followed, [[Thomas Donald William Muir|TRuth and Barton Streets.D.W. Muir]] wrote in Here a second testimony was commenced with the obituary: "Another happy cooperation and fellowship of those who can be so ill be spared has gone from us, to be with the Lord"assembly on MacNab Street.

The family took the remains to Hamilton for burialRegrettably, where brethren D. Munro and W.P. Douglas (no relative) spoke the word."Among the church notices in the Hamilton Herald, April 18, 1914, time a newspaper long since discontinued, there is an insertion which reads: "Christians gathered unto the name group of the Lord Jesus Christ meet at the Gospel Hallbelievers, 140 MacNab Street North. Lord's Day: Breaking because of Breadinternal difficulties, 11:00 a.m., Sunday School and Bible Class, 2:45 p.m. Mr. Robert McCrory felt forced to withdraw from Ulster and Mr. George Duncan from Cleveland will preach at 3:45 and 7:00 p.m."This apparently was the announcement of brother McCrory's first visit to the CityEbenezer Assembly, he later adopted as his home. He had immigrated and to [[Canada]] in 1910, but form a third testimony in 1914 moved from the Maritime Provinces to Hamilton. There he resided until 1961 when, after city at the passing corner of his wife, he returned to IrelandCathcart and Wilson Streets.

There he went home to be with the Lord in October, 1964.It was written of him: "He became evident that there was a man of certain departure at Ebenezer from the Book and ever sought to expound its meaningsimplicity toward Christ (1 Cor. When conflicting influences would have divided11:3, R.V.) and in some parts did, spite of the assembliesfact that a new hall had been erected on Gage Avenue North, he firmly attested to the supreme authority of the Holy Scriptures in ALL MATTERS OF church administration. When amillenarian doctrine spiritual deterioration continued until there was being propagated among some of the assemblies, distressing the minds of God's people, his clear teaching on the doctrine of the imminent return of the Lord preserved a defection in many hearts practice fro the living hope priesthood of the soon return of the heavenly bridgegroomall believers."Brother David Kirk a fellowA well-countryman known minister of Robert McCrory, also started his service in Canada in the Maritime Provinces, but eventually moved Methodist denomination was called to Hamilton, [[Ontario]]be the pastor at Ebenezer. He did not remain long so another clergyman was on a visit called to Ireland at the time of brother McCrory's final illness and deathfill his place. Brother Kirk was able to visit him and along with Robert Wright formerly of Japan, he conducted the funeral servicesThe work did not prosper.Brother Kirk was reared in Belfast, [[Northern Ireland|Ireland]]Ultimately, and as a youth found all the needs of his heart in the activities at Ebenezer Assembly of that Citycame to an end.

In it The assembly at he was saved, baptized, received into church fellowship, corner of Cathcart and from that assembly in August of 1931, he Wilson Streets was commended, in a full time capacity invited to purchase the work of the Lord in [[Canada]]Ebenezer Tabernacle. He lived and labored from This the time of his arrival until 1942 principally in the Maritime Provincessaints did, but that year he moved and they changed its name to Stirling, OntarioBethany Hall. During the years he lived Ever since then there his service has been a testimony for the Lord expanded Christ at Bethany. While it took some years to a wider sphere of ministry. Finally, in 1948, our brother came re-establish confidence between MacNab Street and settled in HamiltonBethany, and ever since has been in intimate fellowship in the MacNab, now the West Fifth Assembly. His presence and his ministry are a blessing to the saints in the assemblythis was finally accomplished.

It That Samson found sweetness where death and corruption had been was a puzzle to the guests at his wedding. An even greater wonder is appropriate that brother Donald Moffatt be mentioned in this chapter. He has given many years of his life to the dissemination of the truth of fact that God. He labored for years in [[Newfoundland]], Canada, and while can bring about fellowship where once there was discord; intimacy where once there founded the radio broadcast, ''Family bible Hour''was severance. This broadcast, of which he is still a director, today is heard in many parts of The Lord does reward the world. It has brought life exercise and instruction to large numbers effort of listeners, both saved and unsaved.After brother Moffatt left [[Newfoundland]], he spent some years on the Pacific Coast preaching spiritual who would that all believers speak the gospel same thing, and ministering God's Word that there be no divisions among them, but that they be perfectly joined together in the assemblies. Eventually he returned east same mind and settled in Hamilton, making MacNab Assembly his homethe same judgment (1 Cor. Although now engaged in secular business, he still spends much time in ministry among assemblies and at conferences1:1-2). He faithfully serves Well might the [[West Fifth Bible ChapelPsalmist write: "Behold, Hamilton, ON|West Fifth Assembly]] with other elders seeking how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to shepherd the flock of God within which he has locateddwell together in unity" (Psa. 133:1).]

==Chapter Eight - "Gather Together"==[[Quebec][] "Gather My saints together unto Me; those that have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice" (Psalms 50:5).One With the growth of the practices that has contributed to city, and especially the spiritual health and vigor development of heavy industry in the assembly at MacNab Street, HamiltonEast End, is the annual convention. In the early years the three day conference it was conducted around only natural that some of God's children take up residence in sections of the time city considerably east of the New YearGage Avenue. [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]] gives an account About 1913, a group of Christians in the first of these conferences MacNab Street Assembly became exercised that they form another testimony in the chapter entitled "Canadian Recollections" Lord in the biography extreme eastern part of Mr. Donald Ross. He writes: "I remember..Hamilton. Because of the sad and bitter experience with the first conference held in Hamilton, [[Ontario]]outcome at Ebenezer, or, for that matter, among the assemblies gathered elders were very reluctant to approve this proposal. However, after much prayer and deliberation the name of the Lord move was finally endorsed and a hall was rented on this side of the waterRosslyn Avenue.

The date This new assembly was, I think, New Year, 1877likewise blessed of God."There is a note in ''The Witness'' of December 1927, After about six years in which the same brother, T.D.W. Muirrented premises, tells who the speakers Lord's people were at this first conference. He writes: "I have just returned from attendance at able to build the 53rd Convention held annually at Hamilton, Ontario. It is now held at Canadian Thanksgiving time. I was present Gospel Hall at the first one when about 75 were gathered from the [[United States]] corner of Kensington and [[Canada]]Cannon Streets. Such stalwarts as Donald Ross, Donald Munro, [[John Smith]], James Campbell, James Smith, Henry Ironside, John Carnie and others In this work they were with us. This year nearly 1,000 came together." "Donald Ross' address (given greatly encouraged by the saints at that first conference) deeply impressed many. He spoke from John's Gospel Chapter 21.""ManyMacNab Street who," continues brother Muiralthough confronted by the need of a new building themselves, "who were generously donated to the undertaking at that conference have gone home to glory since then, but many are still with us, Kensington and there are few of them who heard those words that have forgotten them. The savor of them still livesCannon Streets.

"The fifth conferenceAs early as 1900, at MacNab Street plans were formulated to demolish the original building, that the one purchased for the use of 1881 was advertised in ''The Barley Cake'' (an the assembly magazine edited by Donald Ross) of December 1880. It reads: "Christian Convention in Hamilton, Ontario, on 13th, 14th, 15thbrother Wilson, and 16th of January, 1881. The 'Larkin Hall' situated to erect a new hall on John Street near King has been secured for the meetingssame site. The meetings will be as follows: On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, for prayer, praise and ministry of the Word, at 10 A building fund was therefore opened on apurely voluntary basis.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. On Lord's Day, 16th, January: Breaking of Bread The MacNab Street Gospel Hall known to so many was built in 1921 at 10 a.m. Ministry total cost of the Word$17, 2 p281.m07. Gospel Meeting 7 p.m."In a report covering order that conference we read: "Gospel meetings were held in the eveningsbuilding be immediately completed a mortgage of $8,000.00 was raised, and were addressed by brethren: [[John Smith|Smith]]this, A. Marshallplus the interest, W.P. Charles$1, J375. Grimason00, J.N. Carnie, Martin, Hughes, etc. There was much blessing every eveningfully paid in eight years. The last Gospel Meeting was held in From the 'Grand Opera House'very beginning of its existence, a newly erected building which holds 1the MacNab Street Assembly has sustained the policy,500, but that evening between extra seats by the grace and standing there would bepower of God, no doubtto support itself, between 1,800 and 2,000 people. The rush was such, at the doors had same time to be closed twenty minutes before time. Hundreds on hundreds returned homepromote gospel work, and many remained on the street in the frost and snow, and we addressed them under the canopy of heaven"to assist others.

Another entry reads: How the years roll by! It seemed but a short time till the expanding city had ascended "the mountain"These . Hamilton conferences have been a very great blessing to the Lord's people, and doubtless they will continue became so, as long as there is liberty to preach all God's truth unreservedly.crowded that residential lots on "At the beginning of 1910 mountain" were most desirable. Little by little the assembly began city gradually inched its way southward. The brethren at MacNab accepted this as a new challenge to advertise spread the regular meetings and special events gospel in the ''Hamilton Herald''southern areas. These advertisements indicate that the saints enjoyed visits from such servants of Christ as: W.B. JohnstonConsequently in 1952, D. McGeachy, George Duncan, Matthew Muir, [[John Smith]], [[Thomas Donald William Muir|T.D.W. Muir]], W.P. Douglas, Robert McCrory, W.J. McClure, Robert Telfer, Charles Ross, Geo. Gould, etc.In a hall was build at the January 17th 1914 issue corner of the ''Herald'' there is an announcement of the 39th Christian Conference. For some reason it was late that year; scheduled for January 23rd-25th. The meetings on Friday Queensdale Avenue and Saturday were held in the Gospel Hall, 140 MacNab East 36th Street. On the Lord's Day There they were held in the Association Hall corner of James began evangelistic work among both adults and Jackson Streetschildren.

The Two advertisements in the ''HeraldHamilton Spectator'' also carries an advertisement in its issue of January 14on February 16, 19161952, indicated the purpose and extent of another conference scheduled their plans for January 21st-23rdthe new work. All these meetings, with In the exception Monday evening edition of the prayer meeting which was held in the Gospel Hallsame newspaper, were held in the I.O.O.F. temple on Gore Street in downtown ''The Hamilton.In the I.O.O.F. building the Hamilton Annual Conference Spectator'', there was held for many years; in fact, until it burned down on November 2-3, 1939. Imagination, activated by memory, pictures happy scenes during a picture of the occasions. Even now it is not difficult to visualize George Gould senior on new hall with the platform preaching from the text, "This Man receiveth sinners and eateth with them"caption: ''New Mountain Mission Opens''.

Nor is it hard to recall the advice to younger servants of report that accompanied the picture read: "Sunday School students can be seen here filing into the Lord given W.J. McClure. He spokenew Queensdale Gospel Hall, so he said, as a father among us and gave us words at the corner of instruction, encouragement East 36th Street and caution.How nostalgic are the recollections of delightful fellowship with beloved brethren such as Charles Ross, Leonard Sheldrake, Tom Wilkie, John Ferguson, John Dickson, Ben Bradford, Robert Crawford, George Shivas, Dr. MatthewsQueensdale Avenue, Fred Nugent, C.Fyesterday afternoon. HoggNewly erected, and a host of others. What delightful experiences they were! The conferences which had been so beneficial to so many both at home in Hamilton and in other cities and towns did not end with the conflagration that destroyed hall was opened for services for the I.O.O.Ffirst time yesterday. temple. The brethren sought out another large auditorium, The Scottish Rite Cathedral, and there for many more years It was built under the annual conferences were held with equal interest and profitsponsorship of MacNab Street Gospel Hall."

Through certain circumstances The Christians at Queensdale began to function as a local church, and with for the building of first time gathered together to celebrate the West Fifth ChapelLord's Supper on September 4, 1955. Since then, as an autonomous assembly they have assumed the responsibility of preaching the conferences for three years have been held gospel in the assembly auditorium. Emmanuel is Jehovah. "community, supporting the work of God with us" elsewhere int he home and foreign field, and seeing to do whatsoever is conducive to the Eternal Immutable One. Any change glory of location does not in anywise affect Him. His promise is true, "Lo, I am with you alway."A journalist's account God and the edification of the 79th Annual Conference, written by MrsBody of Christ. George Bentley, which appeared in the Hamilton Spectator on Oct. 9, 1954:

'''Christian Conference recalls early customs''':==Chapter Eleven - "Women of Stirred Hearts"==The weekend will see again an unusual occasion "All the women who were wise hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which has occurred yearly for 79 years since this city's early days. Several hundred visitors are fed they had spun, both of blue, and of purple, and lodged for two full daysof scarlet, mostlyand of fine linen. All the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats hair" (Ex.. even today... through volunteer provision35:25-26).

'''Offered their best''':The seventy-ninth annual conference of Christians continues, as from its earliest days, to draw large numbers from out of town as well as this district. It is held under the auspices of the MacNab Street Gospel Hall.One of the few such gatherings in this country in early Since ancient times, the purpose was to provide ministry of the Word of God consecrated women has been invaluable to Christians who were isolated from worship and fellowship throughout rural areas at that time. Then, it was held in January, the slack time service of the year Lord. The beautiful draperies for country people. Mother and Father bundled themselves and the whole family into Tabernacle in the horse wilderness and wagon or "rig", leaving the hired man to do the chores, garments of beauty and set off for Hamilton. With them they brought provisions, such as a pair glory worn by Israel's high priest were all of geesehome spun cloth, a barrel of applesand were all hand sewn, or a sack of potatoes.needle work (Ex.38:18; 39:29). all Throughout the best they had, as a kind history of "first fruit" contribution to the occasion.Though Christian Church there have always been women like Dorcas (Acts 9:38-42) who have followed the MacNab Street group example of Christians was a small assembly of far less than 100 then, who met the women in a hall at Merrick Moses' day. In their work they have brought glory to God and encouragement and MacNab Streets, they made room in their homes for all who came. Hospitality has always been one of the principles comfort to many of the conferenceHis servants.

'''Everyone welcome''':Some A half century is a long time, and we would have to concede that in the passing of the older members those years many miles of today remember the upheavals thread and yarn could be used in their homesa Sisters' Sewing Class. Their parents made room for up It would be impossible to two dozen visitors. Collapsible beds were brought out. When mattresses fell short, mattress covers filled with fresh soft straw served. In every available corner of their homes visitors were welcomed. Meantime, the latter found places such as calculate the old horse market thousands of those days on John Street to "put up" their horses and wagons.Away back stitches in the 1870's both sewing and '80'sknitting that might be made, they held these conferences in the old YMCA bolts of material that might be used, and the Treble Hall north amount of King on John Street. For meals, they had to go to a nearby hall where volunteers cooked secondhand clothing that by cleaning and served hot meals."We used to walk over singing hymns as lustily as we couldrepairing might be made serviceable, and none objected", recalls in such a daughter of one of those early membersprotracted period.

The Sisters'''Amazing Ability''':The mealsSewing Class at MacNab Street Assembly stretches back beyond the half-century mark. Through these beloved sisters, which today are served clothing of every description has been made available to seven or eight hundred people for two full days, missionaries abroad. Many bed quilts have always been hearty, well prepared, designed and served by volunteers. By a long tried systemmade bandages have been rolled, hundreds sit down to meals which go "like clock-work".The men assist with conference planning and in the services. The women do not toys for children have any public partbeen made or purchased, but on them falls much of the work for actual hospitality. But always there is one capable volunteer man in charge of the kitchen and dining room arrangements, have been made to send food parcels to famine stricken areas and others are on hand for the heavier work sewing materials have been parceled and washing dishes.The women still preserve extra fruit made ready for the conference, and make cakes and cookies and pickles. Other supplies are purchased wholesale and prepared by the volunteers in the huge quantities needed. The pies they used shipment to make are now mostly bought. Billeting is not so much needed now, most coming by carQuebec.

'''From small beginning''':For people who cannot remember early days, it is recalled that Throughout the MacNab Street group years large quantities of Christians began with street corner preaching. Then the handful met in a small hall at Merrick and MacNab Streetsmuch needed items of various kinds have been shipped directly to [[Quebec]], where they are listed in an 1879 directory as Plymouth Brethren. Preachers from outside [[CanadaIndia]] visited them. There were fiery men in those days: a , [[John SmithAfrica]], a Donald Munro, a David Oliver, a Ben Bradford, etc. Quantities of new and a reconditioned clothing have been sent to [[Thomas David William Muir|T.D.W. MuirCuba]]. Such men were itinerant preachers going up and down , the continent preaching the gospel West Indies and a simple faith and manner of worship.These preachers would often arrive a week or two before the conference and conduct prayer meetings. Prayer meetings are still held in the week before. Often[[Colombia]], [[South America]], a series of Gospel and Bible study meetings followed the conferenceother places.'''

Stalwarts of Old''':Some Obviously the sisters of the earliest folk touched by the ministry of those days and responsible assembly are always ready for starting a new challenge. They meet every two weeks during the conference were: Mr. and Mrs. Tom Rentonwinter months, whose home still overlooks the Bay on Bay Street NorthOctober to May, the former being a signal inspector and are eager with hands and machines to work for the Old Grand Trunk Railway; (See [[Railroad]] for more Brethren Lord's servants, anyone who served may be in that industryneed of their services.) Mr. and Mrs. William Duncan When they meet, who lived at [https://en.wikipediathere is an average attendance of 25.org/wiki/Dundurn_Castle Dundurn Castle], The president starts the former being city gardener for many years. Mr. and Mrs. William Mullings, Mr. Mullings being class with a cooper on Mulberry Street; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carter; Mr. hymn and Mrs. Thomas Kennedy, the former, a foreman at the cotton company; Mrfew necessary preliminaries. and Mrs. Richard Passmore; Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Mortimer, She then calls upon the former sister with whom she has arranged to read a sailor newly arrived from [[Newfoundland]] in the hope that his family would have a better chance here; a Mr. and Mrs. William Goodfellow, Mr. Charles Quee a veteran portion of the Crimean War; Mr. Scripture and Mrs. Peter Carroll, the former a pattern-maker; and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Andersonto pray.

'''Faithful Descendants''':While Should there are many newcomers be a lady missionary home on furlough in the assemblyvicinity, quite a few children and grandchildren of old-timers are taking part this weekendshe probably has been invited to address the class. This conference If such the case, it is still anticipated with at this juncture of the enthusiasm proceedings that marked its beginningsthe president will call upon her to address the sisters. They find Christian fellowship and If there is no missionary report to be heard, the encouragement work begins immediately. Some will mail cards and inspiration received from gathering in large numbersletters to shut-ins. They worship, pray, and hear preaching together from able preachers Others will send cards of condolence to bereaved ones. But they feel Still others will remove the real results depend on pictures from old Christmas cards and prepare them for the blessing use of God. All the effort in these more complicated times to carry such an occasion through is worth it if people receive spiritual blessingforeign missionaries.

'''Simple Services''':With simplicity always At half time there is a break for a cup of tea, and while the keynote, sisters relax and the only music tea is congregational singingsipped, letters are read, suggestions are heard, and decisions are made. The conference begins this evening With the end of the break in the MacNab Street Hall when visitors meet their hosts work for the weekend. At the Scottish Ritea cup of tea, the "Breaking of Bread" service is held Sunday at 10 a.m.It is followed by dinner machines go into operation and Sunday School for the childrenskillful fingers ply knitting needles, with public meetings at 2:30 bodkins and 7:30 p.msewing needles. On Thanksgiving Day Throughout these many years, meetings are at the same hourssisters have always taken a voluntary offering. On Tuesday morning With this they have purchased necessary materials, some still remain for an after-servicepaid shipping charges, called "gathering up the fragmentsand have had fellowship with visiting missionary sisters." Invitations of the conference Consequently, they have been sent out this year on behalf of accomplished their benevolent ministry without in anywise being burdensome to the Assembly by messengers George Bentley, Joseph Smart and E.A. Bartmannassembly.]

==Chapter Nine Twelve - "The Little ChildrenLed"=="Jesus... said to themI bowed down my head, suffer and worshiped the little children to come unto MeLord, and forbid them not, for of such is blessed the Kingdom of Lord God. .. which had led me in the right way" (Mark 10Gen.24:1448).After a few earlier attempts which failed,

https://enA growing consciousness of necessary change was reflected in the MacNab Building Fund.wikipedia Notwithstanding it seemed agreeable to most that a relocation of the assembly would be postponed as long as possible.org/wiki/Robert_Raikes Robert Raikes] Years had accustomed many, in spite of deterioration, to the hall and his friend [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anson_Phelps_Stokes Stokes] were the main thrust to establishing the religious Sunday Schooldistrict. The first such school was opened in Gloucester, [[England]], in 1780. Their purpose was to reach particularly hall held the children hearts of the poor most by its traditional values; nevertheless, larger quarters with greater facilities were certainly needed if the Word work of Godwas to progress. Each Sunday School With considerable money in the Building Fund, whether secular (Trade Unionism and similar groups did conduct secular school on Sunday for some ultimately the conclusion crystallized that the time) or religious requires had come to seek a curriculum and suitable piece of land in a text bookmore congenial district.

This must ever be Search was first made in the western parts of Hamilton, but since no suitable property was available there, interest was diverted to western parts of "the mountain". From the beginning the method experiences encountered in an assembly Sunday School. The curriculum must be based upon this move revealed the guidance of the Text Book Lord and derived from it. Our text book must not conform to our prescribed studies; our plan the over-ruling of studies must conform to the Divine Test (sic?) Book, The BibleProvidence.

Near One day when the beginning Committee of brethren, those chosen by the its history assembly to investigate the Hamilton assembly followed whole matter of building in a new location, was looking for land in the worthy example westerly blocks of Raikes Mohawk Road, they crossed and Stokes; recrossed a very productive Sunday School was commencedpiece of land at the corner of Mohawk Road and West Fifth Street. While we do In a rather surprised tone one of the brethren exclaimed, "What is wrong with this land!" Rebuking themselves for not have authentic information regarding its startearlier seeing the obvious and aroused to action, the brethren began to investigate, we do have a report from a former scholar which scans negotiate. At the City Hall they learned that noble effort of some 70 the land belonged to 75 years agoa Mr. Thompson.

When George Nunn It is a common cliche that truth may be more fascinating than fiction: perhaps it is so here. The details discovered in 1899 moved from Bolton to Hamiltonnegotiating with Mr. Thompson were extremely interesting, a proof that "he transferred his interests and fellowship from that feareth the assembly at Bolton to that of MacNab StreetLord, Hamilton. So deeply involved did him shall he become teach in the work there way that eventually he was a member of the Trusteeship in connection with the property of the assemblyHe shall choose" (Ps. 25:12).

His three children regularly attended the Sunday SchoolMr. Thompson had bought the youngestproperty some ten years before, Louis, who but shortly afterwards it had been expropriated by the City for a clover leaf. The original municipal plan was born in 1892to make Mohawk Road a thruway, is today but the Town Planning had been forced to abandon that idea. Only a charming young lady of 31 years of agefew days before the brethren had contacted him, and Mr. Thompson had received a letter from the manager of her own Health Food Shop in downtown HamiltonCity offering to sell the land back to him. Alert, and very acute Was this merely a coincidence? Let us follow the sequence of memory, she readily recalled her early days at the MacNab Street Sunday Schoolevents.

"As a very little girl," began MrsMr. Louise Taylor, for such is her name Thompson did not nowhave sufficient money to buy it back as the City offered it, "I went first to but this he could do if the Sunday School at Boltonbrethren would buy what land they needed. Then when I Consequently the Building Committee was about seven, we moved to Hamilton and I went authorized by the Assembly to the MacNab Sunday School with my brother and sister who were quite purchase a bit older than I. I remember how my father prayed parcel of land 150 x 140 feet facing on West Fifth Street for his children$17, and his children's children yet to be500. It This amount was those prayers that changed my attitude already in the Building Fund. Thus in 1967 the Assembly owned land upon which it could eventually build. Was this, in spite of criticism and resentfulnessthe unusual circumstance, the Divinely favored location for in my teens I was embittered by certain restrictions; I wished that I could go to a bigger church, I can recall getting off new hall? Had the street car at the corner of Cannon and James Streets and wanting so much brethren really been Divinely led? After several months some began to go doubt. Others began to [https://www.knoxwaterdown.ca/about/history-knox-presbyterian-church-waterdown Knox Church]. All feel that resentment and grudge left when I the lot was twentynot large enough to use also for car parking, and I shall never forget how that one night I knelt by my bed and took Christ as my Saviourfor throughout the immediate areas there were stringent parking restrictions."

"You were twenty years old before you were savedThe Building Committee therefore returned to Mr. Thompson to see if it was possible to secure another fifty feet of land. How disconcerting it must have been to learn from him that he had disposed of the property to a Mr. Morrow and his partner! A few days later," exclaimed James Gunn, breaking in upon on making the reminiscencessame request to Mr. "YesMorrow, I it wasrefused because it was his intention to build a high-rise apartment there. We Somehow the brethren ascertained that the Federal Government had left MacNab before taken an option on thatvery piece of land. About 1915 we left and went The brethren therefore approached the Postal Authorities to see whether or not they were going to Bethanyuse all the land. In 1919 From those Authorities they learned that it had been decided not to build, while in Bethany Chapel, just after partaking of and that the Lord's Supper, my father bowed his head and passed awayoption they had would not be consummated."

"What a wonderful way The outcome of the fears and doubts of the brethren and the failure to go home!" broke in both Gordon Thomson and James Gunnnegotiate with either. Mr. "Yes, a very wonderful way; from Morrow or the Lord's Table Postal Authorities led to a new search for land. Farther south on the Lord's presencesame street, West Fifth, a larger tract of land was found," answered Mrs. Taylor. "Do you retain its areas was ample for the memory of your Sunday School teacher's name?" enquired Gordon Thomsonnew building and for an extensive parking lot. "There was Nevertheless some were apprehensive, especially when they learned that at one time a Mr. Grantstone quarry had been there," replied Mrsand that this had been filled with earth. Taylor. "Would One brother was quite insistent that the option to buy the property contain a conditional clause to the effect that be Alex Grant's grandfather?" asked James Gunn. "Nobefore the actual purchase," replied Gordon Thomson, "he would the land be no relativetested and approved suitable for so heavy a structure." (Louise continues), "I can remember listening attentively Four test holes were dug and all indicated that the backfill had not settle sufficiently to my teacher. He was bear the weight of the building planned without very earnest costly pile driving and I really took in what he saidespecially prepared foundation. It was not until I The option consequently was well on in my teens that I criticizedcontinued."

"Do you have any recollection of who the elders were in those early years, Mrs. Taylor," questioned Gordon Thomson. "O yes! There What lessons was Mr. Best, Mr. Arthur Thomas - a great friend of my father, Mr. Harvey Galloway, Mr. Marks, Mr. Duncan and others." "You must have been God teaching His people by these frustrations? Was it that one of the earliest scholars of MacNab Sunday Schoolso difficult to us all," added Gordon Thomson. "I suppose I was, the Sunday School was pretty small in those days," was the reply. "It seems that apart from your father's home," suggested Gordon Thomson, "MacNab was reliance upon God is more essential and more productive than dealings with men? Was the first place where you understood Lord forcing the gospel.brethren into " wits end corner"Yes, definitelyas it has been called, yes, and although for a time I wanted to go to a bigger church and to parties and other places, that early teaching never left me. I feel that it was my father's prayers and that teaching which led me to kneel that night by my bed and give myself in order to manifest Himself? Would the Lordmake a strategic move? Would He intervene? You may judge for yourself."

"May I ask youJust at this juncture of affairs, MrsMr. Taylor, where do you fellowship now?" queried Gordon ThomsonMorrow contacted the Committee. "Yes He informed them that the opposition and registered complaint by the neighborhood against the high rise apartment had been sustained by the Municipality, I go and that his attempts to sell the Baptist Churchproperty for a gasoline outlet, the [https://www.hughson.ca/ Hughson Street Baptist]. After my husband died, I joined and took a class of boysstation, and I have had likewise been teaching ever sinceopposed." "You are still teaching Sunday School at 81! exclaimed both men. "Yes Consequently, he told them, I am still teaching." "You are teaching he had divided the same truth land into five lots and that you yourself learned at he was making the first offer to the MacNab Sunday School those many years agoAssembly. How incredible it all sounded! Like Nehemiah, the brethren, " they perceived that this work was wrought of God"Thank you so much," said James Gunn and thus brought to close a delightful and inspiring experience(Neh. 6:16).

Since MrsInasmuch as Mr. Taylor Morrow was asking $9,000 for the fifty feet and there was only $7,000 left in the Building Fund a little girl numerous sincere brethren have carried special collection was announced on two consecutive Lord's Days. The Lord's people arose to the responsibility of the Sunday Schooloccasion and contributed more than was necessary. As one Superintendent grew older, a younger The agreement that was finally reached was prepared to assume the dutieseffect that the $9,000 be paid to Mr. We thank God Morrow for the leadership of such men as William Duncanland, Angus Munrobut with the understanding that he, Elwood MarksMr. Morrow, William Fraser, Gordon Thomson, Alex Grant, Kenneth Jones, Stewart Jones, and assumed all legal fees in the transaction. MacNab Assembly now owned a parcel of land 204 feet wide by 145 feet deep; adequate indeed for both the brother who now holds building they contemplated and an excellent parking lot, the positionentire price being fully paid; $26, Douglas Agnew400.00.

Occasionally one is asked if Sunday School work is productive Other events at this time convinced the brethren that "the good hand of the Lord" was with them. Some years before, Mr. Joseph Smart, an elder of the congregation, had bequeathed to the Assembly a sum of money between $7,000 and permanent$8,000 to be paid on the death of his wife. The two pictures recent fulfillment of Mrs. Anthony Price's class answers this transaction once more increased the question better than wordsBuilding Fund. A number of There seemed little children in room for doubt that through extraordinary circumstances the class picture taken in 1922 are seen in Lord was saying to the second one taken 40 years later. All in believers at MacNab Street, "This is the second picture are way, walk ye in assemblies in Hamiltonit" (Isa. These former scholars met together to honor their teacher. Such an occasion must be a real compensation for the hours spent in preparation and teaching lessons to little folk30:21).

MacNab Assembly also took a very keen interest in the first Sunday School Teachers' Conferences held in [[Ontario]]. The earliest efforts ==Chapter Thirteen - "Strengthened Hands"=="They that were about them strengthened their hands with vessels of this kind were sponsored by Angus Munro. Other brethren quickly gave encouragement silver, with gold, with goods, and good support. These conferences were helped by Mervyn Paulwith beasts, Ormer G.C. Sprunt, R.J. Littleproudand with precious things, (beside all three of Toronto), William J. Pell that was willingly offered" (Grand Rapids, [[Michigan|MI]]Ezra 1:6) and others. Their counsel and instruction to younger brethren and sisters were highly appreciated.

==Chapter Ten - "The Word of God Prevailed"=="Many that believed cameGodly counsel is always acceptable to the spiritual, and confessed and showed their deedsvery especially under exceptional circumstances. Mr.Robert McCrory, while he was yet with the saints at MacNab Street, cautioned the brethren against disposing of the old hall without having a suitable building into which the Assembly might move. so mightily grew Without another adequate auditorium, he asserted, the Word of God Christians could become scattered and prevailed" (Acts 19:18-20)the collective testimony thus be lost.

The life in Christ with its consequent love A major triple task now confronted the Building Committee. First, that of finding temporary quarters for Christ produced the spiritual urge to repeat assembly; second, that of selling the operations whcih had resulted in such blessing at MacNab Street. An exercise was created in some hearts to move old hall; and third, that of proceeding immediately with confidence in God in order that more local churches might be established in other parts the erection of Hamiltonthe new building.

About 1909, a number of Christians living in Diagonally across the East End of corner from the city built the Ebenezer Hall assembly's new property, on the southeast corner of Ruth Mohawk and Barton StreetsWest Fifth Street, there lay a building complex owned by a Dutch denomination. Here It consisted of a church edifice, a second testimony high school, an elementary school, and a building equipped to accommodate 200 persons. The brethren were able to rent this hall for all their particular meetings at the nominal sum of $180 monthly, and for as long as it was commenced with necessary. WHen the happy cooperation time came, the entire assembly moved up "the mountain" and fellowship into the rented building. The beloved sister who deferred did so only because of the distance and the fact that she lived near the Kensington assembly on MacNab Street.

RegrettablyThe details of the transition were progressing favorable, in time therefore it was appropriate that contact he made with Stweards' Foundation, Wheaton, [[Illinois]]. It was from this Corporation that the brethren hoped to obtain a group mortgage of believerssome $60, because 000 to complete the new building. Mr. Donald Taylor, the representative of internal difficultiesthe Stewards' Foundation, felt forced to withdraw from met twice with the men of the Ebenezer AssemblyCommittee. he heartily agreed with their purchase of additional land. In fact, he said that in a building a chapel with parking facilities an area of an area of an acre and to form a third testimony in half is not too much. Brother Taylor gave the Committee the impression that when needed the funds would be available, but regrettably the city MacNab brethren at that time did not make formal application for the corner of Cathcart and Wilson Streetsmortgage.

It became evident that there was a certain departure at Ebenezer from The time had come to control or repress sentiments and store away the precious memories of the simplicity toward Christ (1 Cor. 11:3past years, Rthe old hall had to be sold.V.) The vicinity in which it was located was now much commercialized and in spite of the fact that a new hall had also been erected on Gage Avenue North, the spiritual deterioration continued until there was a defection in practice fro the priesthood of all believersdesignated for urban renewal. A well-known minister friendly real estate broker assessed the selling price of the Methodist denomination was called to be the pastor Hall at Ebenezer$35,000. He did not remain long so another clergyman was called The Committee thought this too reserved an estimate and tried to fill his placesell it themselves at a higher price. The work did not prosperIn this they completely failed. UltimatelyIt was finally sold by a real estate agent at the broker's evaluation, all activities at Ebenezer came to an end$35,000.

A lovely human interest story must be told here. The elders of the assembly at he corner had promised the use of Cathcart and Wilson Streets was invited the hall to purchase the Ebenezer Tabernaclea young couple in fellowship for their wedding. This the saints didIn keeping their promise, and they changed its name to Bethany Hallconsummated the sale of the hall with the understanding the occupancy would not be yielded until Monday. Ever since then there has been a testimony for Christ at BethanyThe wedding was performed on Saturday the fourth. While it took some years to re-establish confidence between The last services in the MacNab Street and Bethanyhall were conducted on Sunday the fifth of November, 1968. On Monday, this the building was finally accomplishedvacated by the assembly and the new owners took possession.

That Samson found sweetness where death A builder must not only sit down and corruption had been was a puzzle to count the guests at his wedding. An even greater wonder is in cost before he starts, as the fact that Word of God can bring about fellowship where once there was discord; intimacy where once there was severancestates, but he must determine, first of all, what he actually is going to build. The Lord does reward Building Committee had to know exactly what the exercise assembly required: an upper and effort of the spiritual who would that all believers speak the same thinglower auditorium, Sunday School rooms, a baptistry, kitchen, toilet rooms, office, and that there be no divisions among themstorerooms, but that they be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment (1 Cortype of foyer, etc. 1:1-2), etc. Well might When these particulars were all resolved, the Psalmist write: "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is Committee submitted them to an architect for brethren to dwell together in unity" (Psa. 133:1)the final drawing of the plans.

With the growth of When all plans were confirmed by the cityassembly, and especially the development of heavy industry in contract to erect the East End, it new building was only natural that some of God's children take up residence in sections given to Mr. Shoalts of the city considerably east of Gage AvenueRidgeville Assembly. About 1913, a group of Christians in This Christian contractor studied the MacNab Street Assembly became exercised plans thoroughly and estimated that they form another testimony in the Lord in total cost of the edifice represented by the extreme eastern part of Hamiltonplans would reach $130,000. Because of This price included the sad pews and bitter experience with all related equipment as well as the outcome at Ebenezerpaving of the parking space; in fact, it covered everything but the elders were very reluctant to approve this proposallandscaping. HoweverInasmuch as the assembly had $40, after much prayer 000 in funds and deliberation the move was finally endorsed and prepared to assume a hall mortgage of only $60,000, it was rented on Rosslyn Avenueagreed to forego certain details temporarily. These, it was felt, could be added later.

This new assembly By early summer all was in readiness to start building; consequently, the brethren arranged a special sod-turning ceremony. The first sod was turned by brother Reg Larter. The notable day was likewise blessed Sunday, July 6, 1969. In a submissive, thankful and confident attitude the saints gathered on the lot that had at times deeply concerned them, the lot over which they had frequently prayed. One of the elders, a member of the Building Committee, brother Alex Grant, gave an appropriate message based upon Philippians 1:6, "He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of GodJesus Christ". After about six years in The primary interpretation of the rented premisespassage, of course, was to Christians at Philippi and to the Lordwork begun in their lives ten years previous to Paul's people were able writing this epistle. The application made by brother Grant to build the present Gospel Hall at project that had brought the corner of Kensington and Cannon Streetsassembly together was obvious to all. In this work they were greatly encouraged by The greater extent to which the saints at MacNab Street whoLord's people would need to rely upon Him was not then apparent. Notwithstanding, although confronted by it was soon evident the need of a new building themselves, generously donated willingness to make more sacrifices for the undertaking at Kensington Lord and Cannon StreetsHis work.

As early as 1900, at MacNab Street plans were formulated to demolish With the original buildingconstruction well on its way, the one purchased brethren wrote Stewards' Foundation for the use of the assembly by brother Wilsonmortgage, $60,000, and to erect a new hall on the same sitewhich they had discussed with Mr. Taylor. A building fund was therefore opened on What a purely voluntary basis. The MacNab Street Gospel Hall known to so many was built in 1921 at surprise, if not a total cost of $17shock,281.07. when they received a reply stating that at the moment Stewards' had no funds available! In order Furthermore, the reply also stated that they probably would not have sufficient for the building be immediately completed mortgage for a mortgage of $8,000year.00 was raised Was God again testing faith? Could He, and thiswould He, plus guide in the interest, $1,375.00, was fully paid in eight years. emergency? From Would He fulfill the very beginning of its existencepromise regarding wisdom? "If any man lack wisdom, the MacNab Street Assembly has sustained the policy, by the grace and power let him ask of God, that giveth to support itselfall men liberally, and at the same time to promote gospel work, and to assist othersupbraideth not" (James 1:5).

How The assembly was immediately informed of the years roll by! problem. It seemed but The suggestion was also made to all that if the Lord's people could tend sufficient money on a short time till term basis, the expanding city had ascended "the mountain"work would proceed. Hamilton became so crowded that residential lots on " With smaller and larger amounts the mountain" were most desirable. Little by little saints quickly assumed the city gradually inched its way southwardresponsibility, and in a brief period had lent $59,600. The brethren at MacNab accepted this as a new challenge to spread Without doubt the gospel in Lord had directed the southern areas. Consequently brethren in 1952their proposal, a hall was build at He also had touched the corner hearts of Queensdale Avenue and East 36th Street. There His people so that unhesitatingly they began evangelistic work among both adults and childrenresponded sacrificially.

Two advertisements Not too long after this amount had been raised locally, much sooner than expected, word was received from Stewards' to the effect that funds had come in and that they were now able to forward the ''Hamilton Spectator'' on February 16full amount requested. The brethren, 1952therefore, indicated were able to refund the purpose and extent of their plans for amounts lent by the new workindividual Christians. In the Monday evening edition One of the same newspaperbrethren testified later, ''The Hamilton Spectator'', there "This little test was a picture good for us. It deepened our exercise of the new hall with the caption: ''New Mountain Mission Opens''heart and increased our voluntary giving.

Other examples of zeal and sacrifice merit a place in these annals. Two sizable donations were given in order that those details being left until a later date might be finished with the rest of the report that accompanied building. By the picture read: "Sunday School students can be seen here filing into guidance and grace of God, and for the new Queensdale Gospel Hallglory, at the corner end of East 36th Street and Queensdale Avenue, yesterday afternoon. Newly erectedApril 1970, the hall West Fifth Chapel was opened for services complete and ready for the first time yesterday. It was built under the sponsorship of MacNab Street Gospel Halloccupancy."

The Christians at Queensdale began to function as a local church, and for ==Chapter Fourteen - "Doing the first time gathered together to celebrate Will of God"=="As the Lord's Supper on September 4, 1955. Since thenservants of Christ, as an autonomous assembly they have assumed doing the responsibility will of preaching God from the gospel in the communityheart, with good will doing service, supporting as to the work of God elsewhere int he home and foreign fieldLord, and seeing not to do whatsoever is conducive to the glory of God and the edification of the Body of Christmen" (Eph. 6:6-7).