Conference of Psalm-singing Churches convened in 1885

Context

In 1884-1885, the Associate Reformed Synod of the South proposed a convention of churches that held to exclusive psalmody. This initiative reflects the self-understanding of psalm-singing churches as a distinct tradition within American Presbyterianism and the possibility of cooperation or union based on shared worship principles.

Extract

An interesting letter was received from the Associate Reformed Synod of the South recommending a Convention of all the Churches holding the same doctrinal symbols and who use exclusively the Psalms of the Bible in worship.

The Synod of 1885, met in Morning Sun, Iowa. The delegates to the Conference of Psalm-singing Churches reported that on account of our relations on civil affairs no union could be effected. The Synod took the following action with reference to weekly offerings of worship:

1. That Synod reaffirm the principle that the tithe is the law of God under the New Testament dispensation and that it is the least measure of liberality.

Significance

This passage documents inter-denominational cooperation among exclusive psalmody churches in the late nineteenth century. The ARP South’s initiative to convene “Psalm-singing Churches” shows that exclusive psalmody was understood as a basis for denominational identity and potential union. However, the RP report that “no union could be effected” due to disagreements on “civil affairs” (likely referring to the RP position of political dissent from the U.S. Constitution) reveals that worship practices alone could not overcome other principled differences. This provides evidence that while psalmody could realign denominational boundaries, it was one factor among several in determining ecclesiastical fellowship.