మెరుగైన పరిపాలన (1883–85)

English original (OCR)

CHAPTER VIII

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83)

ON January 2, 1883, the seventh foreign missionary the General Council arrived Rajahmundry. Franklin S. Dietrich was born 1853, Albany Township, Berks County, Pa. was graduated from the Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary Philadelphia 1882, and was ordained the convention the Ministerium Penn- sylvania that year, June 5th, St. John's English Church, Philadelphia. had received the call the Foreign Mis- sions Committee August, 1882, and, having accepted it, was commissioned Trinity Church, Reading, Pa. , Tuesday evening, October 3d. Twenty-five ministers occupied seats in the chancel and front pews the church, and the auditorium was filled overflowing. The Rev. J. A. Seiss, D. D. , and the Rev. B. M. Schmucker, D. D. , conducted the services. The Rev. Samuel] Laird, D. D. , preached the sermon English and the Rev. H. Grahn, D. D. , delivered German address. The Chairman the Foreign Missions Committee, the Rev. A. Spaeth, D. D. , commissioned the missionary, calling him to answer the following questions: "Are you now willing and ready, after careful and prayer- ful consideration, enter the service our Evangelical Lutheran Church missionary the heathen? "Will you preach the pure Word God according the Confessions our Church, and adorn her doctrine holy life? "Are you willing and ready sacrifice all things your holy calling, even lay down your life for the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ? " In clear, firm voice the missionary answered: 'Yes, with my whole heart, the Lord helping with the power and grace His Holy Spirit. " Kneeling, the missionary received 212

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-85) 213

the laying the hands the officers the Committee. Then Dr. J. Fry, the pastor the congregation, presented the missionary with communion set, which was the gift the Sunday school Trinity Church. Dietrich left New York October 16, 1882, and arrived at Rajahmundry the second day the new year. ! Two days after his arrival the missionaries met Rajahmundry to revise Luther's Small Catechism. The native pastors, together with C. James and J. William, and Telugu pundit, Subbarayadu, assisted the missionaries this revision. After four days incessant labor the work was done.2 Dietrich, besides studying Telugu under Subbarayadu, gave two three hours' instruction each day English branches the Rajahmundry school and preached English every other Sunday the church, alternating with Artman. In January, 1883, Artman accompanied Schmidt tour through the district north Rajahmundry. After visiting Metta and Peddahem they went Tallapudi select site for missionary's bungalow. Artman wrote: 'Brother Schmidt and are convinced that necessary enlarge our work this direction this side the Godavery River. . . . The missionary Tallapudi should attend the work as far Polavaram. The whole district very flour- ishing state and many are inquiring about the way salvation. " Another town which was desired soon locate missionary was Dowlaishwaram. Had Carlson lived, Poul- sen would have been assigned this station. The few Christians who resided Dowlaishwaram were obliged attend services Rajahmundry, five miles away. The school which Heyer had begun Dowlaishwaram had been abandoned. retired engineer, Mr. Theodore Van Stavern, however, had established and maintained number schools in the town his own expense, and, 1883, offered co- operate with the Mission and his removal death 1 His travelling expenses India amounted $320.50. 2 The revision was published form correspond with that the Telugu Church Book, that they could bound together.

English original (OCR)

214 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

transfer his schools the Mission. Moreover, gave Rs. 300 toward the purchase ground and the erection school-building for the use the Mission. The site pur- chased was the main road caste quarter. Artman undertook preach the town every Sunday evening except when tour. On January 28, 1883, bell for St. Paul's Church, donated by friends St. Michael's Church, Germantown, Philadel- phia, and packed with other gifts for the missionaries the so-called Christmas boxes, arrived Rajahmundry. Schmidt superintended the hanging this bell the tower the church, where displaced the gong which had been use to that time. The Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt with their daughter Dag- mar left Rajahmundry March 27, 1883, well-earned furlough, Schmidt having been India nearly thirteen years. He was accompanied Duncan McCready, orphan, whom I Artman described the festival Juggernaut Dowlaishwaram follows: "I walked through the crowded streets till came into the very center the excitement, where the huge car Juggernaut stood the foot the great stairway which leads the top the hill which the temple stands. The streets were full devotees all ages, sizes and descriptions, from all the villages within circuit thirty forty miles, some their way make their offerings iruit and money the idol, others intent enjoying the gay scene and making purchases fruits, toys and confectionary from the stands which had been erected all along the streets. The number people was great when arrived, and increased apace evening drew nigh, when the great car was be dragged through the streets. This huge structure wheels built very strongly and very ponderous. has stages stories, about five all, which grow smaller toward the top. During the intervals between the annual festivals these cars are generally allowed stand out the open air. Sometimes, however, they are covered with shield palmyra leaves protect them little. festival occasions the rough and uninviting appearance the wood is quite hidden the gaily colored cloth, plantain and cocoanut leaves, flowers and other decorations. the apex the car saw strange figure brass with gay purple umbrella over it, protect from the sun's rays. 1 concluded that this must the representation the god. found party our boarding boys busily engaged preaching number heathen close the car, and once joined them assist them close the mouths the im- pertinent, bigoted young Brahmins. Some the teachers from Rev. Joseph's district also joined us, and last succeeded closing the mouths the two brawlers, that those who were willing listen could so. preached in four five other places, always singing hymns gain silence and attention. We also went the stairway the temple wall but were not allowed enter its precincts. Our colporteur, Venkataswami, our unpaid evangelist, Isaiah, Rev. Joseph and some our Christian women and boarding girls were also present, that there was large force Christian workers hand preach to the great multitude heathen present. "

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 215

Mr. and Mrs. Artman sent America receive educa- tion. After the departure the Schmidts the Artmans moved into the "Riverdale" bungalow, Dietrich remaining full possession the one the church compound. Poulsen lived Samulkot. Concerning the Hindu Girls' School, which Mrs. Artman had charge after the departure Mrs. Schmidt, she wrote 1883: "The fact that missionary's wife spends one hour the school every day teaching the children needle-work proves to one the main attractions the school. present there are least seventy pupils, but there average at- tendance only forty. This due the innumerable feasts, weddings, etc. , which the children attend. present sore eyes, a disease peculiar this country, keeping many away. There are two classes. The first, taught P. V. Ratnam, has finished the Telugu First Book, which Christian book, has learned little arithmetic, and ready begin geography. In the second class, taught Venkayya, the Brahmin, some are studying the alphabet and some have begun spell. As soon they can spell they are allowed join the sewing class. Most the children are very young, none over twelve years age, and some are young four, that Mrs. Schmidt and found necessary engage person bring the little ones and from school. . . . The little Christian sentences which many have learned, carelessly perhaps now, and the hymns they sing, may take hold their young minds, which will have bearing their future lives and, hope, may bring some the true life. . . . The girls are very dirty, even though they are caste girls. Upon occasion, how- ever, they can look well, and load themselves with jewelry; but, rule, they have very little idea cleanliness and can- not understand our scruples this point. soon the girls come send them the Godavery with piece soap, and their hair still looks untidy not allow them sew, which 1s great punishment. they never have been school before hard teach them how behav? properly. At first they act they were the street, talking, laugh-

English original (OCR)

216 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

ing and quarreling with each other. They show their caste prejudice strangely regard water. They will not drink our well-water but must have water brought from the Go- davery caste man especially for them. Our well-water filtered, clear and cool, while the Godavery water muddy; but suppose they receive their instructions home. Occa- sionally, impossible get other water, they will taste ours, buttermilk put into it, which supposed very Pdiaving They will, Romer, eat oranges, plantains and candy, which give them, without hesitation. " As helpers the woman's work Mrs. Artman engaged Miss J. G. McCready, sister Mr. F. J. McCready, and Miss M. A. Payne. her letters America she urged the sending out single ladies woman missionaries, but the Church was not yet ready for such step. Artman rapidly developed the educational work the Mission during the year 1883. February 27th organized his class Brahmin boys into the sixth grade the mission school, beginning with twenty-one pupils. They were taught in all branches necessary matriculation. The Telugu pundit, Subbarayadu, was engaged the Telugu teacher with salary 20 rupees month. Artman and Dietrich took the English branches, each giving two hours instruction daily. One hour each day was spent reading the Bible with comments the missionaries. The class met room of the bungalow opposite the church compound and one the schoolrooms St. Paul's Church. The pupils were also obliged attend the English services St. Paul's Church every Sunday and Wednesday and were expected come the English Sunday school. This was, therefore, the first attempt in our Mission conduct Boys' High School, the organiza- tion and maintenance which became source much dis- cussion and difference opinion both India and America; but Artman undertook the work with the sincere desire influencing the higher classes Rajahmundry through this Brahmin school. Artman also started Normal Department June 2oth, beginning with fifteen teachers whom wished give nor-

English original (OCR)

HINDU FAKIR LYING

One the many practices Hindu fakire self-inflicted

THE CAR THE GOD

When the festivals are observed the idols are procession cars

A BED SPIKES

who seek gain merit enduring pain.

OF KORUKONDA

drawn about through the streets like this one.

English original (OCR)

THE SACRED HILL KORUKONDA

THE TEMPLE KORUKONDJA IHLL

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-85) 217

mal training. This department was divided into two classes and was taught three teachers, namely, J. John Henry, N. Sriramulu and N. Isaac. Despite his special interest the educational work Artman did not neglect the district work during Schmidt's absence furlough. March, 1883, visited Korukonda the time of the annual festival the god Narasimham, accompanied Pastor Joseph and number Christian teachers, preaching to the multitudes which congregated there that occasion. ! 1 "Korukonda, " wrote Artman, "is noted for its peculiar cone-shaped hil 1 about 700 8co feet high, the summit which large heathen temple has been built, which annually made the center great heathen festival, the pilgrims coming from great distance worship the god. The steep stone steps leading the temple were covered with devotees going make their offerings rice, fruit money the god, and then returning. The stairway being steep and difficult ascent, and there are over 600 steps, considered a work merit ascend them. found the steps lined with beggars both sexes and all ages and descriptions, who were continually calling out the passers-by for alms at. the top their voices. Some charitable women dropped a few grains rice few cowries (shells used exchange, much less value than United States mill) into each outstretched hand basket. About 7.30 P. M. the great heathen car Juggernaut was pulled along the rough and crooked streets with heavy rumbling noise distant thunder, amid the ac- clamations the multitudes and showers plantains, which were being hurled up the idol the car from all sides and greedily grabbed and stored away for sale the fat Brahmins who were riding the car. the same time the dancing nautch girls were disporting themselves their slow, unanimated and uninteresting attempt dancing before the car. Here and there priests in dirty red robes and tinsel ephods were going about among the poor, ignorant people and extorting money from them various superstitious and deceitful methods. one place saw one the weirdest and most fanatical scenes of the occasion. large circle people had been formed, within which ten a dozen men were jumping and capering about. Several had network flaming fire-brands their heads, the flames almost enveloping their heads and shoulders they made upward leaps, and the sparks frequently fell upon their bare skin. was the duty the attendants the circle, who carried brooms or dusters, brush away the sparks from the bodies these fire-fiends. made our way with some difficulty our cart and started homeward, not without admiring the illumination the hill and temple means small oriental lamps very simple pattern, which were placed one each end every step and all around the temple wall. must not forget relate incident which occurred to-day. John and were standing corner speaking crowd men who were anxious learn something about the way salvation, when, is often the case, bigoted, caste-bound and most insolent upstart, young Brahmin, made his way into the crowd and put end all preaching his vile and unreasonable remarks and sarcasm. last, when threatened hand him over the police, went short distance away and, mounting slight eminence, began blaspheme and mockingly tried imitate our preaching and manners. this juncture one our old Christian women Rev. Joseph's party came the rescue. She walked straight the young brawler, and although abused her and tried drive her away, she stood firm and spoke so earnestly him about Christ and his love and showed the wickedness

English original (OCR)

218 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

After closing the schools for the hot season toured the Tallapudi district and took possession sites for school- houses granted the government Guddigudem, Nandamur and Kovur. The parochial reports the end the first half the year 1883, showed that the work the Velpur district under the direction Pastor Paulus was making much more rapid progress than any other district. While Pastor Joseph in the Jegurupad district reported fifty-seven baptized Chris- tians and thirty-three inquirers twelve villages, and Rev. I. K. Poulsen the Samulkot district, twenty-three baptisms for the whole year, Pastor Paulus reported many one hundred and thirty-nine baptisms during the year, one hundred and six communicants, twenty-five villages which Christians inquirers resided, and one hundred and seventy-seven children thirteen village schools. At the annual Conference missionaries and native agents held January 3-35, 1884, number important matters were discussed and decided. The Rev. I. K. Poulsen was elected chairman the Conference. Forty persons were enrolled as members, among them two lay delegates. The question of admitting person into the Church Holy Baptism he had more than one wife, was discussed and finally left the discretion each missionary. The motion permit government school-inspectors visit and examine village schools with view their receiving grants was defeated. C. James resigned the Mission's Inspector Schools, and that office was left vacant. The problem caste was dis- his conduct convincingly all present well the fellow himself, that turned about and slunk away the crowd, followed the laughter and jeers of his companions. To-day also saw genuine devotee fakir, whose method gaining merit was lying full-length upon the ground and propelling himself from place place his knees and elbows. was attended little girl who looked dirty and neglected. The miserable man held small pot in one hand receive alms, and was wonderful see with what skill managed keep his pot upright rolled along without spilling its contents of rice and cowries. not this heart-rending commentary the sad and lost condition the Hundus? "' 1 The total expenditure India during the year July 1, 1882, June 30, 1883, was $7225.01, which $3600 were for the salaries the four missionaries, $1373.72 for the salaries native agents, $697.65 for schools Rajahmundry, $1307.08 for buildings and sites and $245.66 for miscellaneous expenses.

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 219

cussed, and was resolved, the sense the Conference, that among Christians there can caste distinctions; nevertheless, the treatment caste people the admonition of the Lord should observed, 'Be wise serpents and harmless doves. " the matter self-support was resolved that every mission agent should give one pice more, namely, four pice for every rupee salary. After the adjournment the Conference the ordained mis- sionaries met ministerial committee, and resolved, among other things, that the district lying north line drawn from Polavaram Guddigudem the left the Godavery River, and between Purushottapatnam and Gokavaram the right of the river, should regarded the fever district (manyam), and that teachers stationed this fever district should receive higher salary. The salary catechist was fixed Rs. 10 month, that of Bible woman female teacher Rs. 3 5 month. The erection schoolhouse and church Samulkot was recommended, and Poulsen was given authority begin boarding school for boys and girls the Samulkot district. The missionaries requested the Foreign Missions Committee of the General Council formulate rules and regulations for the better government the Mission. The year 1884 proved the most eventful one the history the Mission that time. With Artman acting director the Mission, fact though not name, it began assume the position recognized and influential factor the life Rajahmundry and its environs. The natives, unaccustomed such zeal and activity Artman displayed, were amazed his untiring efforts every depart- ment the work. January 1, 1884, formally organ- ized Mission High School for Boys, beginning with seven teachers, all whom were non-Christians, and fifty students, ten whom were Christians and the rest Brahmins. The classes met the bungalow opposite the church compound. Dietrich helped him organize and conduct this school. IN. Timothy, B. Prakasam, K. Joseph, P. Moses and A. Samuel, graduates of Class A. , Normal School, were examined and assigned work teachers.

English original (OCR)

220 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

Of the 74 boarding boys reported January, 1884, 25 were supported patrons America, 58 lived boarding houses on the mission compound, 6 with parents relatives town, and 9 were married men. the 28 boarding girls, 9 were supported patrons America. Three Sunday schools continued support teachers those whom they had sup- ported pupils the boarding school, thus inaugurating this system supporting native Christian workers. Artman felt that some effort should made reach the Mohammedan population the town and, therefore, began school for Mohammedan boys January 10, 1884, starting with thirty pupils and three teachers, all whom were Mohammedans. Hindustani was taught instead Telugu. In order give some semblance Christian school, Artman, Dietrich and, their absence, J. William Henry, gave hour's instruction each day the Old Testament. After the girls had been moved into their new boarding house and the Normal Department had been reopened, Artman spent the closing week January the Tallapudi district, where visited nine villages, baptized twenty-four persons! and confirmed three. administered the Holy Communion over forty persons these villages. Some time during February dedicated chapel Dowlaish- waram, which called St. Mark's Chapel. Then for ten days itinerated with Dietrich the Velpur district, going as far Narsapur. ? After the government inspection the Rajahmundry schools Mr. Grigg, about the middle of March, Artman and Dietrich took trip the Godavery River the "Dove Peace, " going far the gorge. After the Easter festival> Mr. and Mrs. Artman with their two little sons went spend the hot season Bimlipatam on the coast; but Artman was not content remain idle for any length time, so, leaving his family there, journeyed ! Six Sringaram, eight Guddigudem, one Peddahem, eight Penaka- lametta and one Tallapudi. 2 They visited Agartipalem, where sixteen persons were baptized them; Palkole, where five were baptized; Jagganathpuram, Pennagonda, Vodal and Mallaishwaram. # Two infants were baptized and eighty-six communed this time.

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 221

to Salur pay visit Missionaries Pohl and Bothmann of the Breklum Mission. Returning way Vizagapatam, he got back Rajahmundry with his family June 14th, in time reopen the schools after the summer vacation. Speaking the High School wrote: "The High School great and acknowledged success, and will have more trouble hereafter about the higher education our most promising Christian boys. hope the Committee will not hesitate giving their full sanction such important and indispensable branch mission work. " On July 1st Artman wrote the following report: "To-day a new venture was commenced the shape Mission Mo- hammedan Girls' School. This the first time that such school has been attempted here, but have every reason to hope for success. The great thing needed now lady who will able devote her whole time such schools and to zenana work, the unmarried ladies other Missions do. " The Mohammedan Girls' School was held the same build- ing the Mohammedan Boys' School, which was divided bamboo mat, used partition. Mohammedan woman was engaged teach Hindustani, few primary branches were taught J. William Henry's wife, and another Christian woman taught the girls sew. Artman undertook raise enough money support the Mohammedan schools without expense the Mission. From interested friends succeeded getting about 1r rupees month for the boys' school and 7 rupees and 7 annas a month for the girls' school. Moreover, the municipality of Rajahmundry offered grant Rs. 400 year for these schools, which were estimated cost approximately Rs. 70 a month. They failed succeed but proved, nevertheless, to interesting venture. The annual reports the missionary, submitted July 1, 1884, showed good progress everywhere, especially the Velpur district. The Rajahmundry district reported 170 Christians, 93 communicants, 47 inquirers and 25 baptisms for the year; the Tallapudi district, 162 Christians, 87 com- municants, 44 inquirers and 15 baptisms; the Jegurupad dis-

English original (OCR)

222 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

trict, 218 Christians, 111 communicants and 34 inquirers; the Samulkot district, 195 Christians; the Velpur district, 360 communicants. The receipts India during the fiscal year, from July 8, 1883 July 8, 1884, showed number interesting items. English residents contributed $111.50, and Mr. T. Van Stavern $171.68 addition for Dowlaishwaram schools. From the sale bricks made Christians $67.85 were realized, and $40.44 from rents. The expenditures were follows: Salaries missionaries, $3700; native agents, $1854.89; for boarding schools, $920.05; new buildings and repairs, $1422.99; miscellaneous, $632.52; total expenditure $8530.45. Under Artman's zealous leadership the Mission was forging ahead rapidly, when suddenly fell, stricken with fever, severe loss the work India and the cause America. He had reopened all the Rajahmundry schools for the work of the second half the year 1884, the Boys' High School with enrollment over two hundred pupils, and then left early September for short visit the Tallapudi district of which had charge. his return had attack fever, which treated lightly his 'annual fever, " for seems that since his trip Bastar had suffered about once a year from this illness. This time, however, the symptoms became alarming. Dietrich and Poulsen were called his bedside and found him delirious. this condition re- mained until, September 18, 1884, his spirit returned God who gave it. died the age twenty-seven years, having been India less than four years; but the impression which made upon the community remained for many years and still remains. Poulsen wrote: "Our Mission, according to our short-sightedness, has sustained irreparable loss. He had his heart fully set his work. had very good knowledge Telugu and was always willing work and co-operate with all. really undertook too much and overworked himself. " America memorial service was held November sth, St. Mark's Church, Philadelphia, the Rev. Samuel Laird, D. D. , pastor. The Father Heyer

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 223

Missionary Society the Lutheran Theological Seminary Philadelphia, which had helped organize, passed resolu- tions respect, and money began raised for the build- ing missionary's dwelling bungalow Dowlaish- waram Artman memorial. Just one month after Artman's death the eighth foreign missionary the General Council began his labors Rajah- mundry. The Rev. Frederick James McCready, Eurasian by birth, had been sent America Artman prepare for the holy ministry. took the regular three years' course the Lutheran Theological Seminary Philadelphia, was graduated 1884, and was ordained June 1oth, that year, the convention the Pennsylvania Ministerium in Trinity Church, Reading, Pa. Five days afterward was commissioned solemn service the Church the Transfiguration, Pottstown, Pa. ; which the English secre- tary the Foreign Missions Committee, the Rev. B. M. Schmucker, D. D. , was then the pastor. sailed from New York August gth, and reached Rajahmundry October 1oth. Dietrich, who was given charge the Mission with the exception the Samulkot district, needed McCready's assistance the educational work Rajahmundry, and the latter once began teach, daily giving three hours Luther's Catechism, Church History and Bible Study Telugu, and one hour English the Boys' Boarding School. McCready also preached Telugu St. Pauls, Rajahmundry and Dowlaishwaram. After her husband's death Mrs. Artman was requested the Foreign Missions Committee remain Rajahmundry and superintend the Girls' schools and the zenana work. The Committee agreed pay her $6oco year salary and give her the use the "Riverdale" bungalow until the Schmidts returned. Mrs. Artman accepted the offer and thus became the first salaried woman missionary the Gen- eral Council India. Poulsen had begun boys' boarding school Samulkot early the year, because could not get the teachers needed from the school Rajahmundry. Those who were

English original (OCR)

224 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

graduated from that school, having been sent from other districts, were not willing assigned positions the Samulkot district; and the boys who attended school the Samulkot district were not allowed their parents far away Rajahmundry for further training. Nine boys and two girls were attending Poulsen's boarding school the close the year. September 7th new school and prayer-house, located the Mala section Samulkot and costing $235, was consecrated. Mrs. Poulsen did little zenana work Samulkot and taught the boarding pupils sew; but her duties her home prevented her from doing any regular mission work. The success Pastor Paulus the Velpur district, where at the close 1884, had raised the number Christians to nine hundred, had aroused the antagonism certain native society, calling itself the "Rama dandu. " "On the Sunday after Christmas, 1884, " wrote Paulus, "while were making preparations for our morning service Velpur, cer tain enemies Christianity, mischievous devotees Hindu- ism, amounting nearly two hundred number, came all of sudden and fell upon me. frightened them away some- how and escaped their hands the grace God. The con- spirators call themselves the army Rama. They seek force those whom they meet utter the word "Govinda, " which one the names Krishna, their god. The con- spirators made every effort seize and force join their army. They, with much passion, uprooted the young plants and small trees, and destroyed the palmyra verandah of our church. the afternoon they made another attempt to reach our house but were forced away our friends. I wrote the police for help and three constables were sent. Nevertheless, the evening they made third attempt harm us, but the constables and some Hindu friends prevented them. They are troubling our Christians everywhere and doing all sorts mischief. one village they burned the Bible and some school-books night and also destroyed the schoolhouse. another village they destroyed some the houses Christians. "

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 225

Pastor Joseph the Jegurupad district! also had enemies with whom was forced contend. 'For two three years, " wrote, "the Canadian Baptists from Coconada have been against work. They try their best come into my villages. know that the Gospel should preached sinners the children God from different Missions, but I guess the Baptists forget that every child God must serve the Lord the beauty holiness. number of villages the Gospel not yet preached. They may and preach there. have sustained great loss the Baptists. " During the summer and fall 1884, the Rev. and Mrs. H. C. Schmidt were doing deputation work America, stirring up deeper and more extensive foreign mission interest. consultation with Schmidt the Foreign Missions Committee prepared the first Rules and Regulations the Telugu Mis- sion, adopted February 23, 1885, and subsequently approved by the Mission. Moved appeal from Mrs. Schmidt, the Junior Missionary Society Holy Trinity Church, Lancaster, Pa. , the Rev. Dr. Greenwald pastor, contributed $400 for mission printing-press and type, and, beginning with the year 1885, the women's missionary societies St. John's and St. Mark's churches, Philadelphia, undertook the sup- port the Riverdale Hindu Girls' School, each' contributing one-half, $15 month, for this purpose. Despite the fact that the contributions for foreign mis- sions during the year 1884 had been over $3000 more than the previous year, ' the Foreign Missions Committee was obliged in December, 1884, borrow $1000 pay expenses, and issue appeal for larger offerings. Artman, showing what could accomplished vigorous educational campaign the Mission, had demon- strated the need missionary for the educational depart- ment alone. The Foreign Missions Committee was not pre- 1 the end the year 1884 reported 250 Christians, 146 communicants 43 inquirers, 8 schools and pupils. 2 The "" Missionshote" accounts continued show good balances which were turned into the General Fund, while the accounts "The Foreign Missionary" showed deficits which had met from the General Fund. Is

English original (OCR)

2260 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

pared endorse and authorize the entire educational program which Artman had outlined and some degree carried into effect, holding that chief stress should laid the evan- gelistic and pastoral work, and that the educational depart- ment should conducted with the special view training native Christian workers, teachers, catechists and pastors. The maintenance schools higher grade, which were patronized the non-Christian portion the population and which had staff non-Christian teachers, was not regarded with favor. Some one, however, had secured to follow the work which Artman had successfully inaugurated. While Schmidt was furlough America he had suggested the name William Groenning, son the Rev. C. W. Groenning, then the Inspector the Brek- lum Society. was authorized confer with him and, he were willing Rajahmundry, extend regular and formal call the name the Committee. Schmidt did so, and the call was officially ratified the Committee January 26, 188s. At the Annual Conference missionaries, native agents and representatives congregations, held January 5 6, 1883, the Rev. I. K. Poulsen was re-elected president; the Rev. F. S. Dietrich, English secretary; and C. James, Telugu secretary. Dietrich had been appointed the Foreign Missions Committee succeed Artman the treasurer India. J. William Henry became the headmaster the Boys' Boarding School. The question starting indus- trial school was discussed, and was resolved that, while such school might value the Mission, the men and means needed conduct were lacking. The native agents had neglected voluntarily pay 4 pice for every rupee salary received during the year; but the Confer- ence insisted the payment and the dues were then and there collected. was resolved devote the money thus raised pay the salary catechist evangelist the ! Five lay-delegates were received members this Conference, namely, A. Abraham, Mahadevipatnam; P. Samuel, Gorlamudi; V. Daniel, Mallaishwaram; Abraham, Korrapadu, and Kokiri Guriah, Ragampetta.

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-85) 227

"fever district. "! Thus the so-called '"Rampa Fund" was established. Four graduates the Normal Department the Boys' Boarding School* and seven married men who had been boarding pupils were given work teachers. was resolved that ''as there was longer great ur- gency sending out teachers, more married men should be entered the school boarders, except very special cases. " The number boarding boys January, 1885, was 67; boarding girls, 23; and 31 day-pupils were enrolled the Anglo-vernacular school which McCready had been teaching seventeen hours week. The Conference decided, however, that McCready could best used the district work, and was assigned the Tallapudi district and authorized begin once the erection bungalow the town Tallapudi. Among the incidents the year especially reported the Conference was the conversion young caste-man, former pupil the High School, Vungara Sriramulu, the son pensioned government official, belonging the weaver caste, who, though his relatives alternately threatened him and pleaded with him, nevertheless remained firm his allegiance to Christianity. After serving for some time teacher in the Hindu Girls' School, assisted McCready evan- gelist the Tallapudi district. ? 1 The "fever district" was redefined extending from the Godavery the Zellam River, above line drawn from Polavaram through Gokavaram Yellaishwaram. 2 The regular graduates that year were: A. Isaac, P. Caleb, B. Gnananan- dam and P. David. The married men were: P. Samuel, Daniel, P. Benjamin, K. Philip, V. Samuel, K. Venkataswami and G. John. 8 "This young man, " wrote McCready, April 2, 1885, "spent last Satur- day with and toward evening expressed his willingness take his cross and follow Christ, braving all the trials such persons become subject em- bracing Christianity. communicated his wish Rev. Poulsen who was here at the time visit. decided act once. While was away seeking the assistance the police protect him, Mr. Poulsen, the presence few Christians, baptized him study Riverdale bungalow. Two policemen were ordered guard our house and prevent any disturbance. were per- mitted rest peace that night. The news did not spread and his relatives did not know his conversion until informed them letter. . . . length, the company policeman, visited his father's house. The object of this visit was seek public interview with his wife. She refused ac- company him, being under the influence her parents. His child they would not give up. Having satisfied ourselves that she would not for the present join

English original (OCR)

228 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

After the death their baby, born shortly before the death of Artman, Mrs. Artman decided return America. She wrote: "It with much sorrow that leave India and the work here, for has been happy home for more than four years. painful leave when think that must when laborers are much needed. After much prayer, however, this seems the only way, and all the missionaries agree with me. " She left Madras with her two remaining children May 4th, and arrived Philadelphia June 25, 1885. The furlough the Schmidts lasted over two years. August 9, 1885, they were back Rajahmundry, having left their daughter, Dagmar, Denmark receive her educa- tion. Eleven days after their arrival Captain C. Taylor, consistent friend the Mission, who every year contributed toward its support, died the advanced age nearly eighty us, returned home. Some days thereafter Sriramulu's brother who made believe was working our behalf, came and begged that our convert al- lowed home and intercede with his wife. Rev. Poulsen and accompanied him, not suspecting anything. were treated cordially, the father especially being very respectful. hour passed away conversation. then hinted that was time take leave. Word was sent the back part the house where Sriramulu was talking his wife and mother. were told that were hurry should not wait for him; would follow 3 o'clock. were alarmed this announcement. the meantime the courtyard the house was being thronged men. The truth dawned that was danger. had fallen into trap. immediately ran the direction which the crowd was moving. They crowded around the door the back the house. pushed way through and reached the door. large padlock was on it. Sriramulu was locked in. lifted the venetian blinds and could dis- cern figure sitting with several females embracing him. 1 called his name. He answered me. asked him were there his own choice, and wished to remain. answered English: 'I prisoner; wife and others have hold me. wish free follow you. " The question was asked several times and always answered the same. Mr. Poulsen went for the police. remained behind. soon left the mob turned and with anger their eyes ordered leave the premises. declined until requested the master the house. befriended me, quieted the mob and, rising from his sick-bed, begged that Sriramulu wished go, should set free. They would not hear him. The trial was hard one for Sriramulu, but the pleadings wife, mother, brother and friends could not change him. They wept, promised, threatened; but all endeavors keep him from Christ were futile. thank God for the strength given him during these hours trial. He was released. The crowd followed with hisses and curses. This man taking his cross gave all dear ones, friends, property, worldly standing, everything, and followed Christ. his request cut his hair short or, rather, removed the Hindu top-knot. "

English original (OCR)

RELIGIOUS

The Godavery one the therefore, multitudes from wash away their guilt.

THE BRIDGE OVER THE

There are fifty-five solid forming

BATHING THE GODAVERY RIVER

twelve sacred streams India. Every twelve years, all parts India come bathe its waters The festival bathing called Pushkaram.

TABLE ONDAGA ANUAREEAZS

GODAVERY RIVER RAJAHMUNDRY

masonry piers, fifty-six spans steel girders, bridge mile and half long.

English original (OCR)

LOADING RADARI BOAT WITH RICE BAGS

A CONGREGATION TELUGU CHRISTIANS

These people are Malas outcasts, who constitute the majority the membership our mission congregations. Notice the thatch-roofed prayer house which they worship.

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 229

years, having lived India without interruption for sixty years. After the return Schmidt the Mission was redistricted. Schmidt took charge the work Rajahmundry except the schools, which were given Dietrich, who also preached Dowlaishwaram. The Velpur district, with N. Paulus pastor charge, was placed under the general oversight Schmidt; the Jegurupad district, with Pastor Joseph charge, under the general oversight Dietrich. McCready took the Tallapudi district and Poulsen the Samulkot district. Dietrich did good work Dowlaishwaram. preached there every Sunday sent catechist his substitute. The congregation, the close the year 1885, numbered eighteen communicant members, and during the year eleven persons had been baptized. The school enrolled thirty pupils. Luth- er's Small Catechism, reading, writing, arithmetic and singing were taught, the older and more advanced pupils receiving some instruction also geography and history. Evangelistic work was done during the week the Mala section the town. While the other districts the majority the converts were Malas, those the Tallapudi district were mostly Madigas. "To the pariahs, the Chucklers, " wrote McCready, "and other people low caste and caste the Gospel welcome message. They are simple and uneducated people. The women join the men the audiences. Most, not all, of the converts come from these classes, hence work chiefly among them. Few Christians the Tallapudi dis- trict are Malas. have Mala Christians only two vil- lages. This accounted for this way: When Chris- tianity first enters place, should those who first embrace be the Mala caste, which one the lowest castes, others still lower will join us; but should the first converts Chucklers, the Malas keep aloof. " Concerning the character the new converts wrote: "It sad fact that there lack piety among the people. the hour trial they are weak. When temptations come they surrender without struggle. Many bad habits, such drinking, falsehood, getting into

English original (OCR)

230 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

debt, spending their earnings thoughtlessly and uncleanness in their personal and houschold life, are common. Having abandoned heathenism they have left much behind them overcome, but much still remains conquered. " Mc- Cready followed the practice the Mission not baptize an adult until the Ten Commandments, the Creed and the Lord's Prayer had been learned. '""Many their old age, " he said, "learn some hymns. The young people can sing the 'Gloria Excelsis. " The order the service has become very familiar them. The services, consequently, grow more interesting them and more orderly. " introduced Sunday school Tallapudi, induced the Christians give day's wages every year for the building fund the Christian Inn proposed for Rajahmundry, and encouraged the children to spend their Saturdays work earning something for the Mission. Every Monday, being market day, and his cate- chist teacher preached the market-place. Thirty-one persons were baptized during 1883, raising the total number Christians the district 172, whom 68 were communi- cants. ! In St. Paul's, Rajahmundry, Schmidt preached Telugu, assisted P. V. Ratnam and C. James. The English ser- vices and Sunday school were discontinued. unsuccessful attempt was made introduce church council Panchayet. The time for self-government had not yet come. The number of communicants the close the year 1885 was 94. evangelist was engaged for the district north Rajah- mundry, called the Korukonda district. the Velpur, Jegu- rupad and Samulkot districts the work was slowly progress- ing, the number communicants the close the year being respectively 325, 117 and 37.2 The total number baptisms in all districts during the year was 311; the total number Tn the largest congregation, Tallapudi, there were 46 Christians and 20 communicants; Peddahem, 33 Christians; Nandamur, 14 Christians; Tutigunta, 18 Christians, and Guddigudem, 35 Christians. five village schools 29 pupils were enrolled. 2 Pastor Paulus reported 211 baptisms for the year, 40 villages which Christians resided and about 300 pupils school. Pastor Joseph reported 16 villages, 289 Christians and 68 pupils cight schools. Rev. I. K. Poulsen reported 25 baptisms, 147 Christians, 84 pupils and 13 teachers.

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 231

baptisms the Mission from January 1, 1880, December 31, 1885, was reported have been 1705. The report the Foreign Missions Committee the Eighteenth Convention the General Council, held Phila- delphia, October 15-21, 1885, included the recommendation that for the better government the Mission the Rules and Regulations, after their adoption the General Council, should into effect January 1, 1886. Another recom- mendation was that more laymen added the Committee. "There would great gain the work entrusted us, " the language used, "if were given the presence, counsel, practical tact and hearty interest number prudent, devoted, earnest laymen. There are now but three laymen on the Committee, and even these are scarcely ever able attend. Would not well seek out men the kind desired, who have such command their time enable them give one day each month this work? " con- sequence the Committee was given power add six laymen to its membership. The former committee was reappointed, with the exception the Rev. Samuel Laird, D. D. , who was succeeded the Rev. E. E. Sibole, D. D. The Rev. F. Wischan was elected the Committee's German secretary the place the Rev. H. Grahn. Otherwise the officers remained the same. Under the head "missionary organizations the con- gregations" the Committee sanely remarked: "The General Council has expressed its conviction that the Church, individual congregation combination congregations, is the proper agency through which the mission work should be done, enlarged and directed; but within the congregation it often found great advantage that the mission work should engage the special attention organizations. Some- times the Sunday school takes the work; sometimes mis- sionary societies are formed. Sometimes these associations are young people; sometimes women; sometimes all kinds may found. The congregations which have shown the greatestinterest missions and wherein that interest has en- dured longest and been most constant, have such associations. "

English original (OCR)

232 THE TELUGU MISSION THE GENERAL COUNCIL

A large part the Committee's report was devoted dis- cussion the educational work the Mission, especially the Committee's attitude toward the Hindu High School organized Artman. The Committee had requested him furnish full information concerning it, but before could comply death had claimed him. Then, November, 1884, the Committee had resolved abandon the enterprise. The missionaries were forbidden teach this school and were directed send such Christian boys were capable higher education the Government High School Rajahmundry. The thorough and careful training native workers Biblical knowledge was emphasized. All the missionaries, however, except Poulsen urged that the Mission High School be continued. The Committee then advanced four reasons for abandoning it: "1. have not sufficient force men at Rajahmundry allow that their time should occupied with this work. 2. not desirable maintain school in which the whole staff teachers non-Christian. " "If the Christian influence the school were the controlling one, " said the Committee, "our views might different; but with only one hour day given mission- ary, while the corps teachers heathen, feel very doubtful the Christian influence the school. " 3. The maintenance such High School, was claimed, would place the Mission opposition the Government school, and array the English officials and their influence against the Mission. 4. The school threatened become expensive undertaking. 'Instead being self-supporting, Mr. Art- man first believed would, cost, beyond its receipts for the first year, $500, although occupying our mission house gratis. " Considerable correspondence passed between the Mission and the Committee concerning this school. Dietrich and McCready wrote long letters. They asserted that the school was necessity, that successful Mission was without such school, and that was the only agency which Brahmins and high castes could reached and influenced. Before reaching final decision the Committee, September, 188s, passed the following resolutions:

English original (OCR)

BETTER ADMINISTRATION (1883-83) 233

"Resolved, 1. That the care the schools Rajah- mundry has been assigned Rev. Mr. Groenning, requested very carefully examine into the whole school system Rajahmundry, and, after full consultation with the other missionaries, propose plan for the school system all branches, but especially with reference the Hindu High School, the Mohammedan Schools and the Caste Girls' Shoo) and their relation the Mission. . That this plan when prepared shall submitted the Mission Council, and, after full consideration, opportunity be given the several missionaries send their views the Committee. '"3. That until the submission such plan and action it the Committee, the missionaries may continue give religious instruction both the Hindu High School and the Mohammedan School, and that the High School may occupy the mission house which now located, unless should be needed for the use our missionaries; but that other expense these schools borne our treasury. " The financial argument the Committee was all the more emphatic because the Committee was forced December, 1883, make special appeal for contributions wipe out an accumulated indebtedness $2500.