The first Church Built in Gen. Ler's army
--
Gen. Jackson--In a statement of one of the ministers attending the recent Presbyterian Synod in
Virginia, the proceedings of which are published in the
Central Presbyterian, We find the following interesting facts:
‘
Last winter when near
Fredericksburg we erected our first house of worship.
It was a rude log building.
I walked home from the first service held in it with
Gen. Jackson, and as soon as we reached his quarters he said, ‘"Let us now pray for a blessing upon this service. "’ "I esteem it," said
Mr. Lacy, ‘"one of the most precious privileges of my life to have been permitted to enjoy the confidence, and often to kneel down and pray with the most holy and devoted man I ever knew."’ An interesting sketch was given of the organization of the chaplains, and the efficiency resulting from it. This was upon the suggestion of
General Jackson.
’
After returning from our chaplains' meetings,
Gen. Jackson would send for me, and in his quick manner would say, ‘"Come in
Mr. Lacy, and make your report."’ In espouse to interesting statements he would say, ‘"That's good; we ought to thank God for that."’ When he saw
Gen. Lee and other officers come to attend preaching.
it gave him great joy. Among his liberal contributions of money, it may be mentioned that he gave $300 to publish an edition of the tract, "
Our Danger and our Duty, " one of the most powerful productions that ever came from the pen of
Dr. Thornwell. --
Gen. Jackson was deeply impressed by it. After he was wounded in his last battle, his love for the word of God seemed greater than ever.
He (
Mr. Lucy) would sometimes read eight or ten chapters to him.
Here
the Rev. Dr. Hoge being requested to state what was the impression made in
England by his death, remarked, in substance, that it was in the highest degree solemn, deep, and affecting — that he was not only admired there as a great General, but loved as a good man, and that his death was lamented with a sorrow like that which belongs to a personal bereavement.
Lord Shaftsbury said be considered
Gen. Jackson the greatest man our country had ever produced.
