[278] III. We believe in the fall in Adam, the redemption by Christ, and the renewing of the Holy Spirit. IV. We believe in justification by faith alone, and therefore receive and rest upon Christ as our only hope. V. We believe in the communion of saints and the doctrine of eternal rewards and punishments. The Christian men who have been baptized, adopting these articles of faith and constitution in each regiment, shall choose ten officers to take the spiritual oversight of the same. Of the officers so elected, the chaplain, or one chosen by themselves for that purpose, shall act as moderator. The officers will meet once a month and oftener, if necessary, and in the exercise of discipline will be guided by the directions of Christ. They will keep a record of the names of all the members and the manner in which their ecclesiastical connection with this Church is dissolved.Some features of the religious state in the army were full of interest. Sunday-schools and Young Men's Christian Associations were organized and carried on with marked results in many regiments. The men took deep interest in the study of the Bible, and not only did chaplains and missionaries conduct the meetings, but many officers and privates acted as officers and teachers in the classes and services. Discussions of scripture truth became thoroughly interesting and full of instruction. This gave subjects of conversation for the camp, the bivouac, and the march, and without doubt suggested thought and comfort in the hour of pain and weakness as the result of battle. Sympathetic services of prayer were held in regiments, company by company, besides the regular public worship on Sundays for the whole regiment. Separate Bible classes of congenial spirits were formed and conducted. At least one instance is noted of an antiswear-ing association formed, that in the Third battalion of Virginia reserves. The prevailing influence led to a large cessation of profanity, gambling, and even of card playing. It is not surprising that schools were held in which soldiers learned to read and write, but it is astonishing
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Atlanta, Ga. 1899.
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