To: Joshua Cade
Dear Joshua,
I'm sorry that I can't help you in your search, but thank you for visiting MB. Please come again and enjoy the wealth of reliable ministry.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Joshua Cade
Thank you kindly for your response. The one group you mentioned in your email as to being 'extreme' interests me. Can you tell me more?
And are any of the My Brethren groups communal in practice, i.e., living in cloisters or such?
To: Joshua Cade
Dear Joshua,
I'm not sure why you say "the one group you mentioned in your email as to being 'extreme' interests me". Perhaps it is just ordinary curiosity.
I encourage you to look into the Ministry group which has much edifying and challenging ministry of earlier times.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Joshua Cade
Thank you again, sir, for your response. As for my interests, I would very much like to escape the materialistic slavery of the life I now lead and do not know how.
Thank you for your time. G-d bless. Joshua.
To: Joshua Cade
Dear Joshua,Joshua Cade
JoshuaCade234ATaol.com
Gadsden, AL, USA
Thu, 26 Jul 2001
As 'My Brethren' is devoted to the history and ministry of those commonly called 'exclusive brethren', you need not look further as to "exclusive brethren".
Thu, 26 Jul 2001
Fri, 27 Jul 2001
Re your question, to my knowledge, of the groups known as 'brethren' – i.e. those which trace their origin to the first meeting in Dublin c.1827 – none is "communal in practice, i.e., living in cloisters or such".
Fri, 27 Jul 2001
Wed, 1 Aug 2001
Thanks for sharing your interests and concerns to which I will try to reply as fully as possible. However knowing little else of your personal situation – age, marital status, employment, Christian connections, how long you have been a Christian, what your conversion experience was, what particular "obligations" trouble you – I can only respond in very general terms.
| The complete reply is posted on Guests: My Answer 3: The Pressure of Modern Life. |
|---|
Joshua, I am hopeful that some of the above might strike a chord in your heart and be of help to you in your struggle. You have been in our prayers and it will be of great interest to hear of your progress in your continuing exercise.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Joshua Cade
Mon, 24 Sep 2001
Hello. It's been a while since I last wrote you. After carefully and prayerfully considering what you wrote to me about "escapism," I have realized how very right you are.
Thank you so very much for your prayers and wise counsel.
May the Holy One bless you. Josh.
To: Joshua Cade
Tue, 25 Sep 2001
Dear Josh,
Thank you for writing and sharing your commitment. It is both encouraging and humbling to be of any assistance to you.
I'm sure that you have made the right decision and that you will indeed prove God's help.
You will continue to be in my prayers, and I will be glad to hear from you at any time – and of the victories our God is certain to provide.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Liz Cameron
Greetings, I would like to know if there are any assemblies in Metro Detroit or nearby within easy driving distance.
Thank you so much for your Christian spirit. Feel free to post my
comments/questions anywhere on this site.
Liz Cameron.
To: Liz Cameron
Dear Liz,
Liz Cameron
alera1ATyahoo.com
Belleville, MI, USA
Wed, 2 Aug, 2000
My Brethren is a most interesting site. I must admit that I know very
little about the Brethren, although I have heard of JND. I have been a
Christian for almost five years.
Sat, 05 Aug 2000
Thank you for visiting MB and for your sincere inquiry which, unwittingly doubtless, draws attention to our weak situation
| Because of its general interest the major part of this reply is posted on My Answer 2: Some Groups Referred to on 'MB'. |
|---|
Now Liz – and I speak freely in concern for you as a fellow believer – there are two possibilities.
Circumstances or events may have caused you to commit yourself to a path pleasing to the Lord Jesus no matter what the difficulties or the cost,
If this is the case, perhaps you would like to speak to me or some others of similar beliefs. It may be that you would be more comfortable speaking with a sister.
Your brother in our Lord, Gordon.
From: Liz Cameron
Sun, 6 Aug 2000
Actually, I am not at all upset. As devoted as a Christian as I am, I am also well aware that there are many out there who are not honest. So I appreciate your honesty.
My background is Pentecostal. I decided five years ago that I needed God and being reborn has sure made my life better.
I think I unwittingly attended an exclusive Brethren group a year ago.
I don't know how much expense it would be for someone [to phone]. Do they have computers? They could e-mail me at least at first-would be cheaper for me, too.
Thanks again for your message. Liz Cameron.
To: Liz Cameron
Sun, 06 Aug 2000
Dear Liz,
Thanks for your gracious reply. I was concerned lest I might offend you
in some way, but am quite relieved.
I have found Stark Road Gospel Hall Assembly is listed on the web with other "open" meetings at http://www.bibletruth.net/milivona/default.htm.
Women do not speak in "open" or "exclusive" meetings based on "Let your women be silent in the assemblies, for it is not permitted to them to speak … for it is a shame for a woman to speak in assembly", 1 Cor. 14: 34-5.
I have taken the liberty of forwarding your original email and my reply – which are now on MB – to Peggy Paluga, and I am copying this to her as well.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Liz Cameron
From: Peggy Paluga
Rede4HimAThotmail.com
Pelican Rapids, MN
Thu, 10 Aug 2000
Dear Sister in Michigan,
Greetings from a sister in Minnesota!
Gordon Rainbow shared with me the correspondence the two of you had shared as he felt I might be interested in writing to you.
| Because of its general interest, the major part of Peggy's letter is posted as a guest article on My Answer 2: Sister to Sister. |
|---|
Well, dear sister, I've rambled on enough. Perhaps you're not interested in all I've had to say, I don’t know.
One thing I’d like to say before I close and that is that what ever I’ve said to you, I must be able to back with Scripture or it’s merely my opinion and nothing more.
I look forward to hearing back from you!
Resting in Him, your sister in Christ … Peggy.
To: David Canfield
Dear David,
Guests: My Answer 3: One Leader: Did this teaching of W. Lee come from the brethren?
Guests: My Answer 3: What is Ministry?: To a bookstore owner
Guests: My Stand 2: Local Churches: Attempt to identify with ‘brethren movement’
Guests: My Stand 2: Use of Ministry: Selective use to support favoured views
Guests: My Stand 2: Miles Stanford: Misuse and disregard of distinctive ministry
Our commitment is to be faithful to the principles and practices which governed Mr. Coates as a servant of the Lord – as well as those with whom he maintained practical fellowship throughout his life – and which we share.
It would compromise our responsibility – and the integrity of ‘My Brethren’ – to approve use of MB’s biographical sketch of CAC:
As you mention that you "would be happy to provide the appropriate reference to your site",
Thanks again for your brotherly approach, and please understand that our position is based on principle.
In our Lord, Gordon Rainbow.
To: Rodolfo Carnio
Dear Rodolpho, Unfortunately, I don't have any personal knowledge of brethren in
Chile to share with you. I have made a search on the web and cannot find
anything there either. Hopefully your guest book entry will come to the
notice of someone with information for you.
Perhaps you would share your experience with other MB guests. Are you
presently connected with a group of believers?
Please visit again and feel free to write.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
Hi Scott, Drop in again. Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
To: Scott Carroll
Dear Scott, Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
To: Randal Cave
Dear Randal, Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Randal Cave
My wife Patricia (nee Stewart) and I are in happy fellowship in an "open" brethren assembly in Peterborough.
My interest in your web-site is not only that I recognize the unity of all genuine believers who are part of the body of Christ,
Tricia and I join with all of you in our deep concern for the trials you are now going through and we bear you up before God's throne of Grace.
In Christian love, Randal and Tricia.
From: Randal Cave
Dear Randal and Tricia,
Your interest in MB and your prayers for us are appreciated.
Wye are not too many miles apart that we may yet have the pleasure of meeting face to face.
Betty joins in love in Christ.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Marcus & Janette Chapman
mchapmanATcroydon37.freeserve.co.uk
Dear Marcus and Janette,
The problem in these days of breakdown and failure is that
I am glad you appreciate the contents of "My Brethren".
Please drop in again and be free to share your exercises.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus and Janette,
"My Brethren" has had some additions and more expected. Drop in again.
With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon and Betty,
It is really nice to be able to send a few lines with things of interest and not to have to compose a long letter!
As you know we meet with a few here and have links of fellowship with
others in the UK etc.
… The general adulation of men that developed at least in the UK after the war … led, I believe, to the following men and the desire for a universal leader rather than to the Lord Himself for the guidance needed.
With warm greetings in our Lord Jesus to you both,
Affectionately in Him, Marcus.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear brother & sister,
Love to you both in our Lord Jesus,
Marcus & Janette Chapman.
P.S. Notice Alistair Deayton's name on your list. I was local with a Fred Deayton in Ealing back in the 50's, also we know a Ron Gregory well. (His mother was a Deayton) Can you throw any light here?
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, Re your inquiry, in the "Mailbox" Alistair Deayton says "Fred in Ealing, still in the Jims".
With love in the Lord Jesus to you and Janette,
Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, Ron Gregory lives in Ilford, Essex, and is in his late 70's. He is in
poor health (Parkinsons), but clear in his mind.
There were some Deaytons in Poole, Dorset. I believe one was Charles
Deayton, but could not be sure. We only went to Poole meeting once.
Don't know if I am boring you with trivia [definiterly not!], but it might be useful to someone somewhere!
Much love in the Lord to you both, Marcus.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus,
I don't mind the "trivia" at all. Details about the brethren are of
great interest.
Yours in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, I had a quick look at your paper on the Service of God and found it really helpful.
With much love in the Lord, Marcus
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Brother Gordon, I knew the Davidson family at Acton and at Ealing as I was brought up amongst the brethren there from 1948 to 1968 and am sending an email to Andrew Davidson to see if I can give him any information that he does not already know.
Please let me know if I can be any encouragement or throw any light on brethren in the London, England area as my father used to preach in many of the meetings in Greater London and I knew many of the saints in that area.
With renewed thanks to you and love in our Lord Jesus, Marcus Chapman.
From: Janette Chapman
Dear Gordon, This website was set up and is run by a couple of younger believers who meet with us, as a means of providing a forum for discussion and mutual encouragement in the Lord's things in a day when things are very small and geographically scattered. It is primarily aimed at the younger generation with a sprinkling of older ones including myself who feel some
responsibility to maintain a scriptural outlook. Your guest Robert Munster is a regular contributor.
Reading is not a very popular pastime among the young in these technological days and I feel that it is important to encourage the young to benefit from the wealth of spiritual teaching that is contained in the ministries of men used by the Lord to open up truth.
I submitted the MB link to the above website as I thought it might encourage some to read some of the ministry available on your site without being seen to do anything as uncool as reading a ministry book!
I trust the Lord will continue to encourage you, and use your website to bring sound teaching to interested believers.
With much love in the Lord Jesus to you and your wife,
Janette Chapman.
To: Janette Chapman
Dear Janette, I'm definitely interested to learn of young believers being helped to find interest in the various ministries the Lord has given over the years. As my generation, and perhaps yours, ages we become more aware of the importance of young men and women filling up the thinning ranks.
I have very much enjoyed the interchange with Robert Munster. He has good sensibilities and a readiness to search matters out.
Always glad to hear from you and Marcus.
Betty joins in love in out Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon,
I have had contact with your correspondent Andrew Davidson and am waiting on him to let me know what help I can give about his relations.
May you, your wife be encouraged in the work of the Lord,
Affectionately your brother in Him, Marcus.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, Betty joins me in much love to you and Janette.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, How interesting to find someone who would like to see Park Street Hall! Unfortunately our Renton brethren disposed of it some years ago as it had become too large for local meetings and parking was really difficult. (It was bad enough in the 60's - what it must be like now!)
It is interesting that of the 3 Park Streets amongst brethren in England, I think only Park Street, Bristol remains!
I wish I could help these dear brethren fulfill their wishes, but I have a feeling it might not be possible now.Please do let me know if I can be of help.
We are making some progress with the notes of GRC's hitherto not on your site. Will report later.
I have also scanned in notes of the "assembly meetings" in Hornchurch over GRC. Unfortunately they are on foolscap paper and this does not scan properly, so I shall have to photo reduce them first. I have attached a copy in its unreduced state. If you already have these notes please let me know.
Janette joins in sending you our much love in the Lord Jesus, To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, We are both as well as may be expected, thank you. Yes, we have had it very cold and a great deal of snow -- more than usual. I only get out occasionally, even in good weather.
Glad you are making progress on the GRC notes. Perhaps you would send them meeting by meeting as you complete them so that I can work along.
Thanks for the "notes of the 'assembly meetings' in Hornchurch over GRC" -- which I do not appear to have. Unfortunately, as they are in a 'DAT file' I cannot open it. Would it be possible for you to convert to a text file? This would be appreciated, if possible, as it is undoubtedly a valuable historical document and should be on MB.
Love in our Lord Jesus from Betty and myself to you and Janette, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon,
With much love from us here, Your brother in Him, Marcus.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear brother Gordon,
Please find enclosed the first of some GRC ministry not in current circulation. Janette and others are typing up further notes as promised, but I thought we should not keep you waiting for what is ready!
May the Lord bless you and those working with you, To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus,
I am presently finishing up a rather large project, soon to be posted on the bio of JBS-- a detailed listing of his ministry.
Thanks again to you and Janette and your fellow workers. From: Marcus Chapman
Dear brother Gordon,
I heartily agree with you as to the article on "Leadership". What we might have been saved from.
We shall look forward to your list of JBS ministry. We are both enjoying his ministry at the present moment.
We have a fellowship meeting tomorrow with a younger brother from Worthing -- Phil White. His father was local in Putney (London) for many years and kew Mr Gratten well.
Our much love in the Lord Jesus to you and Betty, Marcus.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus,
Many thank for the GRC Markinch notes and the outline of assembly meetings. All will be valuable additions to MB. Please thank all who have worked on the notes.
The list of JBS ministry has just been posted and so I will be able to start the formatting of the GRC notes. This will take some time but I may post each group as completed. Will let you know how things progress.
Your mention of Worthing brings back memories. I stayed there with Ray and Nan Henry in 1964 for the Dorking meetings.
With love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon and Betty,
Here are 2 more articles that you may be interested in for your web-site.
Those who have helped in the previous notes are:—
We do hope that you are both well and that now the weather is improving, you will feel stronger.
Should any more ministry come our way that is not yet on your site, we will do our best to get it to you. We have very much enjoyed these recent articles and desire to make them available to a wider audience.
We join in sending our love and greetings in the Lord to you both, Marcus.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, I agree, the article by CWC on sonship is excellent and is a good addition to the few items we have of his ministry.
Certainly, we will be glad of any items that come to light and, of course, will be happy to hear from you at any time.
Betty joins in love in Christ to you and Janette, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, Robert has been in touch with you and has suggested to me that we include C W Cooper's address at Bournemouth in our next issue. Provided you are happy for me to correct a few typos and make a few minor amendments (I will send you the proofs).
I would be glad of your comments on our exercise to publish notes of reading meetings. The brethren with whom we walk publish addresses and much good ministry, but we feel there is a gap in that there are no notes of recent reading meetings being published.
I greatly appreciate and value the work that you undertake to provide a web site where all may come and find good teaching and I trust that you will be enabled to continue this valuable service.
You will be interested to know that we that over a 10 year period we have had over 80 persons from the streets around come in to the Hall in Croydon where we meet to hear the gospel. We thank the Lord for the opportunities we are being given to reach out to a few souls.
Do please pray for us that the Lord will continue to bless this tiny outreach.
With love in the Lord Jesus in which Janette joins, Your brother Marcus.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, I'm quite happy for you to use CWC's Cleaving, with editing as required. A source credit to MB would be appreciated.
Your "exercise to publish notes of reading meetings" is timely. The first issue read well.
It's good to hear of your local exercise and some interest in the gospel. How important to maintain the truths of the assembly and the gospel together. Certainly should be remembered in prayer!
Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, I do trust that you and Betty are both well and managing well during the cold winter that you are experiencing! It has been the coldest here for 30 years! We, of course, are not used
to long periods of snow over here!
I enclose copies of notes of meetings that Robert Munster and I are preparing and circulating.
I wonder if you would be interested in receiving a copy?
At the moment some of our brethren are not happy for ministry to be published on the internet, so I can only let you have these notes for your own private reading.
Please do not be offended, but some of the older ones are deeply suspicious of the Internet and do not view it as a means to circulate the precious truths that we have been so privileged to have set before us.
Could I ask for your help on a metter? I have nothing on my shelves, apart from JND, on the Book of Hebrews. Can you point me in the right direction please?
With love and greetings in the Lord Jesus to you both, Marcus
Issue 2 Feb 10.pdf is for viewing on the screen
Issue 2 Compact Feb 10.pdf is for simple printing, with 2 pages per A4 side
Issue 2 Booklet Feb 10pdf has the pages ordered suitable for printing as a booklet -- print pages 1-10, turn the complete stack over (flip on short edge) then print pages 11-20 on the back.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, Betty and I are reasonably well for 80/81, but I now use a power chair to get around the retirement home.
Regarding ministry on Hebrews see JBS 4, FER 9, CAC 23, JT 2 & 19. These showed up easily on the KBT cd.
Thanks for the PDF of ministry. Yes I would be glad to receive future issues. The PDF for viewing on the screen would be sufficient, although I'm interested to see you will be printing as well.
Not offended at all, these suspicions as to technological innovations are not new. Probably some were suspicious of the printing press.
You may recall I wrote on Nov. 11, 2009:
Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Hello Gordon,
Love in the Lord, Marcus
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus,
In Him, Gordon.
TO: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus and Robert [Munster], I may have suggested before, but will risk repetition: Have you considered setting up a web site? You have sufficient good material to warrant one.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon,
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon, as so encouraged by your suggestion about a web-site as it is something that we have been thinking about for some time. My sons are very "computer literate" and I already have a web-site that could be used.
I believe that you did offer, a while ago, to put a reference to "Notes" on your website?
If this is so would you be willing to put something like this on?
We are embarking today on a study of the Feasts of Jehovah and about 30 of the young in our area are expected to come to our home this afternoon. I expect that you may already have read it, but there is a very useful book sold by "Chapter 2" in London called "The Seven Feast of Jehovah" by G C Willis. It was first written for translation into Chinese and is published by Bible Light Publishers, Kowloon, Hong Kong. The writer draws from JND and Trotter and scripture quotations are from JND's Bible. If you are free to refer to it on your web site, I think it may help saints as there is both typical teaching and prophetic teaching in these feasts!
Our very warm love to you and Betty, To: Marcus Chapman [& Robert Munster]
Dear Marcus, Glad you are considering a web site. As to "whether we give unlimited access or make it password controlled" I have copied below from our 'Ministry: Introduction' which commends itself and has guided us. When I first came among the brethren, c. 1950, I was told that the ministry is for all.
Shortly, I will put your notice in MB's 'Bulletins' and also on 'Site News: Bibles and Books'. When you have decide on a web site we can add that reference as well.
It is certainly good to learn of the encouragement in Croydon and especially the interest of young people to search the Scriptures. If I recall correctly, Mr. G. C. Willis was a Canadian who laboured in China and was -- at one time at least -- connected with the TW exclusives.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Hello dear brother,
With our much love in the Lord to you both, Marcus.
From: Marcus Chapman
Dear Gordon,
Thank you for the helpful articles you sent me a while ago on the subject of ministry being for the whole church. I feel that if I set up a web-site, it would have to be open to all,
Could you point me to any ministry on the Christian calling? The Apostle Paul speaks often of the calling and the apostle Peter speaks once of it.
With love in the Lord to you both. To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, You are quite right as to the need of careful editing of any articles put on a web site. This of course also applies to printed notes.
Re "the Christian calling", try --
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Marcus Chapman
Hello my dear brother, I am sorry not to have been in contact sooner, but the last 6 months have been quite difficult for us. Just over 4 years ago Janette's father came to live with us from Peterhead [Scotland] due to the development of alzheimers.
To: Marcus Chapman
Dear Marcus, The weather here has been reasonably mild for winter.
We can understand the difficult time with the long care of Janette's father and the anguish at the end. Such situations are hard to bear but He has, and will, give strength.
As to the documents, I have a letter of GMS which may be the same as the one you have. Please compare with:
Aberdeen - A House Divided: Section 9 I seem to recollect letters to/from JT re associations but cannot locate.
I would certainly be interested in both -- would a photocopy be easier than
retyping?
How is your work on ministry with Robert Munster going? I haven't seen any
mailings recently.
With much love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon and Betty.
From: Marcus Chapman
Hello my dear Brother Gordon,
We are being encouraged here in Croydon, but we miss our 2 sons. Andrew is now local in Aberdeen and David in Birmingham.
The Lord sends souls in to our Gospel Meeting from time to time, and we are thankful to be able to give out New Testaments and Tracts in the local area.
We find much encouragement through our local reading meetings and fellowship meetings. However, there is no substitute for personal prayer and reading the scriptures. Also I do find the reading of good ministry a great help. It is wonderful to make use of the gifts God has given to the assembly. I am appreciating more than ever the light God has given over the last 150 years or so. I have never come across anything of a similar nature anywhere else and I just wish that more believers could come to an appreciation of it!
We desire that the Lord continues to bless you in your work with the "mybrethren" website. I will let you know as soon as we have set up the website for "Notes of Meetings"
I thought you might like a photo of us taken this year in our front garden. (Andrew is on the left and David on the right) [See My Pictures - Chapman]
We join in sending our warm love to you and Betty,
Affectionately your brother in our Lord Jesus, Marcus
Dear Marcus, Had some interesting correspondence with Robert this past week.
We are quite isolated here and except for email and some visits live a fairly lonely life outwardly.
When we moved to Bethany Manor assisted living 8 years ago - we are now 84 -- I had to pass on almost all my library because of lack of space. Recently, with the help of our young friend, Jeremy Ng, I acquired a Kindle e-reader and downloaded all the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC and JT from the Good Teaching
website, owned by Craig McKay, a young brother in Brechin. Jeremy has also converted GRC from our site and so I have much good reading ahead.
May the Lord bless you in your ministry work, Will be glad to hear of your progress.
Betty joins in love to you and Janette and boys in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Wm. S. Chellberg
Dear Bill,
I came upon your web site recently and was impressed with its excellent appearance as well as the breadth of the ministry provided -- a good service for those who might hesitate to contact KBT. May your labours continue to be blessed.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty Rainbow.
From: Wm. S. Chellberg
Dear Gordon, Through the Lord's mercy we are in fairly good health and keep encouraged of the Lord. We number only 18 locally -- mostly family with many children (9 to 22) for which we are thankful.
I took over maintaining a stock of Bibles from J. (Jimmy) A. Petersen when he could no longer do it, and then finally (after retirement) developed the web site.
I trust you are both well, Doris joins me in sending our love.
With love in Him, Bill Chellberg, wsc@bibles-etc.com
Visit -- www.kjellbergprinting.com
To: Wm. S. Chellberg
Dear Bill, I have checked the sites you noted, and some others from your main web site -- all of interest -- and will show yours as a source on our "Site News: Bibles and Books".
Your visits to 'My Brethren' are appreciated -- and I will be happy to hear from you occasionally as warranted.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Wm. S. Chellberg
Dear Gordon, In our precious Lord and Savior, Bill.
To: Luke Chen
Dear Luke, There are a number of reliable articles in the History group of 'My Brethren' which you may consider useful for your project. The items are:
I will be happy to give you permission to use any or all of them if you will agree to the following conditions:
After you have had opportunity to review the pages noted above, let me know if you are interested in my proposal.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Luke Chen
Dear Brother Gordon,
I might be too ambitious, but I truly believe that such a history would
benefit Chinese-speaking saints.
Your brother in Him, Luke.
To: Luke Chen
Dear Luke,
Before you begin any work, it is necessary to add two more conditions:
6. that your translations of articles from 'My Brethren' are not to be
included in any publications identified in any way with the so-called
'local church', Watchman Nee, Witness Lee, or their publishers.
I am not questioning your own personal association with the 'local church', etc. – which you openly declared – or I would not have offered to help you in the first place.
I will wait for your acceptance of these additional necessary conditions before confirming my offer to you.
I will be glad to help in any way possible as your work proceeds.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
To: Chew
Hi Chew, I am sure that – as I would – our other guests would be interested to know more about you, if you would like to share your background and history.
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Hin Han Chin
Dear Gordon, I don't know Peter Hsieh of Tawau. I have seen your correspondence with
him and I hope your reply opens his eyes.
I do observe that among the Chinese, misunderstanding of the sciptures
or other books written in English often arises from a poor command of
English.
I hope Mr. Hsieh continues to ask questions so that I can understand him
better.
Yours in Christ, Han.
To: Hin Han Chin
Dear Han, We will be praying for you as you try to understand your my elder
brother's Buddhist perception of Christianity.
Please keep in touch. We are very interested in you and your
experiences,
Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Hin Han Chin
Dear Gordon, I have been going over the book on Witness Lee that Donald sent to me. That group has been calling me up regularly since I had not shown up at any of their video bible studies.
The Sioux Indians' prophetess also made a similar prediction way before
Europeans set foot on the Americas
Recently, in Malaysia, there were reported news of charismatic christians getting their teeth fillings all turned into fresh gold as verified by a dentist. Some of them were from my town.
It is a spiritual chaos out there.
Send my warm regards to all the rest as the Lord is preserving us in the
current spiritual chaos.
Han.
From: Hin Han Chin
Dear Gordon, I am in contact with some believers who believe in the one Church concept. They run a centre called the Aquila Centre: housed with audio and video tapes and a library. It is financed by Dr. Richard Barrow and James
Jupinon.
I cannot come to visit you all for time being but I appreciate all the
books you have sent me:
Yours affectionately in the Lord, Han.
To: Hin Han Chin
Dear Han,
I can well understand the difficulties and discouragement you must
feel from your many years of isolation from normal Christian fellowship.
While normal Christian fellowship on a Scriptural basis is much to be
desired, when it is not available the obedient individual can count on the divine presence.
Do you have access to the web, or only email? There are many items and
correspondence on 'My Brethren' which you would find encouraging.
We hope to hear from you more often as in years past. You are in our
prayers daily for blessing, and we long to see you. Betty joins in love to you.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Hin Han Chin
Dear Gordon,
I am sad to hear about ——. He could be having financial problems. I don't think he wants to be rich.
But God calls us out from the world: Abraham and Jacob left their homeland. Both prospered. Isaac did not enter Egypt but planted on Philistines soil and yielded 100 fold, Genesis.
Will write again. Yours in Christ, Han.
From: Hin Han Chin
Dear Gordon, I have been listening to the tapes Carl sent me many years ago. Now the views make more sense to me, dsepite baby voice and planes flying around. However I have to turn full volume even with a mini-compo. I just could hear them with my Walkman last time.
Together with Glenn Harris [?], I could raise reason/logical questions for a Pentecostal pastor to reason out things on tithe, Abraham tithe, the Law. baptism of the Holy Spirit, water baptism whether is it the one that washes away our sins or the Lord's blood. Why blood = sacrifice?
Now I do treasure what Carl has sent me. This way I can hear everybody's voices and get stregthened.
Now many raise and con $$ in the name of Lord and tithe.
Han.
To: Hin Han Chin
Dear Han, I'm glad you still feel free to ask questions. Very interesting to me, but it may take a little time to get back you on them all.
I'm copying this to Carl and Kee because of their interest in you.
With love in Christ from Betty and myself, Gordon.
To: Hin Han Chin
Dear Han, The one Name in Matthew 28 refers, I believe, to the way the invisible God has been made known in revelation in what we call the 'economy', and avoids any thought of there being three gods.
Then have a look at Doctrine: Baptism especially my comments in 'The Mode of Baptism Reconsidered'.
As to baptism of the Holy Spirit, this took place initially at Pentecost, forming the body of Christ, and subsequently on faith in Christ and His atoning work that others were/are added to the body. 1 Corinthians 12: 13.
I'll ry to get back to you on the other points but don't hesitate to write again in the meantime.
With love in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Hin Han Chin
Hi Gordon,
Hope you receive this mail. Love in Christ, Han.
To: Hin Han Chin
Dear Chin (Hin Han), We keep reasonably well for our age -- I am now 81 and have to use a power chair to get around the building. We now live in a Christian retirement home -- six years in April. We are thankful for the provision but it is not like having your own place in so many ways
I'm glad you saw Kee. The Ng family are a great comfort to us being our only local link
I'm thankful you have "grown spiritually" and can be a help to others.
I hope you will take advantage of the much good ministry on 'My Brethren' to help in your continued spiritual growth.
We will be glad to hear from you at any time. To: 'Chloe' / pseudonym
Dear 'Chloe'; The 'exclusive brethren' in which you are interested is the largest group of those who were at one time in fellowship together and who valued and valued the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC, JT Sr and others, which is featured on 'My Brethren'.
Following the death of James Taylor Sr. in 1953, a legal system
developed openly emerging in 1959.
A number of brethren withdrew in 1960 and later – see
Sadly many worthy brethren remained, held by fear, family connections or financial involvement.
They may have the books of Darby, Coates and others on their bookshelves. Lip service may be paid to them but the later – and often contrary in letter and spirit – 'ministry' of their current 'universal leader' takes absolute precedence.
Their services probably would appear outwardly similar to before, but the content would have to conform to the latest 'ministry' of their 'leader'.
The above is based on personal knowledge or reliable reports.
On a positive note, for what brethren have learned to practice over the years, you might be interested in
I trust you will weigh the above carefully, and I will be glad to hear from you again.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: 'Chloe'
Dear Gordon,
I was disappointed to find out today when I asked a friend, that the writers like Coates and Taylor and Stoney that I've just discovered, aren't used by the Open Brethren.
Yours, 'Chloe'
To: 'Chloe'
Dear —,
My brethren of the 'open' persuasion generally don't read books of
'exclusive' origin for several reasons:
I would be interested to know how you obtained the books of JBS, CAC
and JT – and glad to answer any questions you might have.
In the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: 'Chloe'
Dear Gordon, About the address for where I get my Brethren type literature. It is:
Eastwood Bible Depot, P.O. Box 81, Eastwood, N.S.W. 2122, Australia, Phone 02 9878 2917, Fax 02 9878 1385.
Yours, 'Chloe'.
To: 'Chloe'
Dear 'Chloe',
Some other friends are praying for the 'two anonymous sisters in
Australia'.
The books from Eastwood are likely used but a very good price.
Eventually all the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC and JT will be on a
CD. This may take up to another year but will be a valuable resource.
Although regular books are usually easier to read.
I'd be interested to know something of your history before you began with the 'open' meeting.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: 'Chloe'
Dear Gordon, Anyway, way back when I became a Christian, in 1988, I was interested in the Exclusive Brethren because of the women and girls wearing the headcoverings.
I went from Anglican to Uniting Church to Assembly of God to Church of Christ to Independent Baptist to Amish-Mennonite and back to the Indepentent Baptist Church before going to the Open Brethren.
For different reasons a few people were leaving the church we were at, and I felt like leaving it too, but knew there was nowhere else to go,
as I had tried everything else!
I must sound very fickle, going from church to church, and in a way I am, a bit changeable. But in another way, every change has been an improvement.
Well, that's my story. Feel free to put in in the Mailbox if you wish.
Yours in thankfulness, 'Chloe'.
To: 'Chloe'
Dear 'Chloe',
I had a similar experience as a young man. He convicted me as to the
rightness of household baptism and the wrongness of celebrating religious holidays – while I was in an 'open' meeting –
The Lord honours faithfulness to Him and to what is suitable to
Him. May He help you to persevere in your desire to be for Him here.
I'm thankful that MB has been of some service to you and am always
ready to be of any help or comfort. Let's keep in touch.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Dear Pascal-Eric Your English is quite alright and far better than our French. We're glad you didn't hesitate to write to us. We don't have a French version of the site but hope you will return and explore. If you have any problems we will try to help.
We have the Stow Hill / Kingston Bible Trust edition of JND's 'Collected Writings' and 'The Irrationalism of Infidelity' is indeed in volume 6 – it is almost the whole book – otherwise numbered as 'Apologetc 1'. If you still cannot find it please let us know.
In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Thank you for your answer. I will get the volume 6 from a brother. I thought I had this volume, but it was the 22nd which is subtitled 'Doctrinal 6'. He will send it to me in an email.
Brotherly in Christ, Pascal-Eric.
From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Dear Gordon,
Thanks, Yours brotherly, Pascal-Eric.
To: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Dear Pascal-Eric, I do not have any 'open' literature to access on the subject, but I am confident the following statements I found in various ministry would be supported by every christian who knows about the rights of Christ over them. I have noted volume and page number for your reference.
It seems to me if membership with the Freemasons was viewed in light of the bond of Christ and the assembly, His rights over us, and the bond of the brethren with one another, that a christian's sense of belonging would come, as it should, from the fellowship of God's Son
You might also find this link useful to your study of this important subject:
Doctrine: The Unequal Yoke.
I look forward to any further thoughts you may have. We certainly appreciate your visits and your correspondence.
Yours in the Lord Jesus.
From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Dear brother,
Thanks. Yours in the Lord, Pascal-Eric.
Page Top
To: Vincenzo Cimmino
Dear Vincenzo,
Unfortunately I don't have any material in Italian, and don't speak
your language myself.
If you care to share any personal information or experience, I'm sure
that other guests would be very interested.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Vincenzo Cimmino
Thanks for your prompt answer! I'll get in touch later on.
Affectionate greetings in Him, Enzo.
To: Billy, Alva and Stephen Clark
Dear brethren, We sympathize with you in your relative isolation, and thank God
for the few with whom we are able to meet to remember the Lord Jesus.
As to Mr. Darby, I value his labour and ministry and that of others
– both contemporary with him and those who followed afterwards – and seek to bring it to the attention on those who are unaware of it.
I'm not familiar with Los Angeles or the brethren meeting at "Windsor
Road".
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Alan Clarke
Dear Alan,
Please let me know if you agree,
Yours in the Lord, Gordon.
From: Alan Clarke
Dear Gordon,
Very many thanks, Alan Clarke.
To: Alan Clarke
Dear Alan, Gordon.
To: Peter Clarke
Dear Peter, I have has some interesting correspondence with your sister Sarah. See Mailbox, following.
In the Lord, Gordon.
From: Peter Clarke
Gordon,
After 30 years, I have no anger or rancour over the brethren, only a
feeling of sadness and wonderment on
Personally, I take no other ground than that of claiming no other status at all than being a believer in the Lord Jesus, with desire to be here as an ambassador for Christ – albeit a very poor one, but my motives are that, even if I fail to live up to it.
I married Lois Trim, of LosAngeles, 30 years ago; we raised our own four, and adopted another four, which is proving to be quite a challenge.
Your brother in the Lord, Peter M. Clarke.
To: Peter Clarke
Dear Peter,
I share your concern as to the apparent lack of a living link with the
Lord Jesus in many young ones who have left the system.
We too have "no anger or rancour" which seems to marks so many and
only corrodes, diverting from our proper occupation with Christ.
As to "how and why a group of simple and evangelical people became what
they did in such a short time" there are some suggestions, which you may
find of interest, on MB in:
The rise of sectarianism obscured and distorted the meaning of the
Lord's Supper and our relationship with each other, and with other
believers.
Thanks again, and I hope you will find occasion to check out MB,
particularly the ministry.
Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Lois. Gordon.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Rainbow:
I remember being at your house for dinner one night and it was there I
first heard any discussion or debate about the brethren needing to go back prior to 1970 and re-examine all Mr. Taylor Jr's ministry.
Well, that is all history now, as the group I break bread with in
Victoria long since arrived at a judgment of it all.
I would love to hear from you and hear how you are doing, or where you
are worshipping (if that isn't an intrusive question).
As my mother says, if you turn your back on the Lord, He'll only shine
on your back. We really have a wonderful Saviour, don't we?
Well, I'll close off, but have been meaning to write ever since I saw
your names.
With love in our Lord Jesus Christ, Sarah Clarke.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah,
We remember Elizabeth well too and all the sorrow she had. We understand she and Bryan are happily together.
No, we don't consider your question "intrusive". After many sad experiences we came to ourselves and began breaking bread alone about 20
years ago.
From what you say I'm not sure whether you have visited the "My
Brethren" web site. There is more personal history and information on
it.
You are so right about many marked by being "awash with bitterness",
which only hurts themselves.
Thank you for your invitation. It would be most pleasant to see you
again and share our experiences of His love and care.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon,
With love in our Saviour to you and Betty, Sarah Clarke.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah,
Betty joins in sending our love to you,
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah, Before I say anything that could be misunderstood, let me emphasize that I am not in any way criticizing you personally or your project.
I trust that the above will not be seen as negative. It has just been written as things have come to mind and, hopefully, will be of some interest to you.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon and Betty,
I'd like to visit Ontario this fall with Elizabeth to research some family records, so would love to see you and Betty.
With love in our Saviour, Sarah.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah, Looking forward to seeing your book whenever it comes out! Let us know. There are certainly a lot of negative ideas around that need to be "debunked".
And it would certainly be good to see you after all these years and share our thoughts more fully than email allows. And to see Elizabeth again would be good. We enjoyed the visit
from Bryan and Elizabeth very much.
Love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon and Betty.
We even had time to visit Pam Hill's grave the day we left. I didn't know her as Elizabeth did, but even so, she made a profound impression on me - a very Christ-like loving person.
I was also very touched by what you said, Betty, about your grandfather - how he loved to gather his grandchildren around him and share the gospel with them.
One of my most precious childhood memories was hearing my parents singing hymns after we children were in bed. My mother would play the piano and dad would accompany her on his violin, oblivious to the wonderful memory they were creating.
Again, good to see you both. I hit the ground running at work - writing tasks, speeches on fire safety but my apologies I didn't get in touch sooner.
With love in our Saviour, Sarah Clarke.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon and Betty, Reading your web site, I see it is the 10th anniversary this past November -- so my most grateful thanks for all the effort you undertook to put it together. I'm sure, like me. it has been a blessing to many.
With love in our Saviour, Sarah Clarke.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah, Betty has passed on your greetings to Flora and Rosemary. You are probably unaware that Rosemary was married in September to Eric Rumsby, a widowed resident here at Bethany Manor and a fine brother. They are well suited and very happy together.
Otherwise things are quiet here and we are thankful for the few contacts we have from time to time.
If you ever venture this way again you will be very welcome! Please give our love to Elizabeth and Bryan.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon, Elizabeth and I look back with pleasure on our visit with you and Betty and also the opportunity to meet Flora and Rosemary. As Elizabeth says, Flora has such a lovely Christ-like spirit, which is wonderful after all the sorrow she has had. To my mind, that is a greater witness to the power of
God than someone whose life has been a bed of roses (or pretends it has).
I really appreciate your work in setting up the website. Wthout it, I never would have had the opportunity to get in touch with you and Betty again which has been a real blessing both to myself, and I am sure, many others. (I know Dan and Kerstin Soukoreff and Susan Soukoreff think very highly of
the web site.)
That is surprising news about Rosemary but come to think of it, I have heard of other people getting married in retirement homes. I find life full enough as it is! But everyone is different which is the beauty of the body of Christ.
I'm glad you liked my letter; I didn't want to write a "brag" letter as they are so artificial, but rather just focus on the blessings. I don't think anyone's life is immune from sorrow and disappointment . But I remember a preacher who wisely pointed out we can focus on either our sorrows or the
Lord Himself.
In closing, thanks for the kind invitation to visit you . I don't know if I ever will be in Ontario again, but should that happen, I would love to see you both as there is nothing like the fellowship of fellow believers, especially those with whom we share so much history - as well as a wonderful
future.
With love in our Saviour to you and Betty. Sarah Clarke.
To:: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah,
Please write whenever you are "moved" to do so.We enjoy the contact very much.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
From: Sarah Clarke
Dear Gordon,
I trust all is well with you and Betty. I was wondering if you know where I can obtain a copy of Charles Coates' commentary on the Book of Revelation. My copy (ancient) is literally falling apart.
With love in our Saviour to you and Betty,, Sarah Clarke.
To: Sarah Clarke
Dear Sarah,
You might be able to get CAC's Revelation from Daniel Soukoreff (Spiritual Food Publishers) or fairly certain from Dover Bible Fund (USA). See both on 'Bible and Books' on 'Site News'.
My first introduction to Bible study, at 16 years of age, was to Revelation in a young men's group at the home of a fine older brother in an 'open' meeting. I didn't know then it was thought to be difficult! …
Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
Dear Kevin, In the Lord, Gordon.
To: Carl Coombs
Hi Carl, See you soon. Gordon.
To: Van Costen
Dear Van, In our Lord, Gordon.
From: Van Costen
Hello Brother Gordon, Thank you very much. I appreciate your help.
In our Lord Jesus, Van Costen.
To: Van Costen
Dear Van, In the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
Dear Brother,
I pray that this note finds you well and blessed by the Lord's mercies. Thank you for your service in making "My Brethren" available. By the way, the complete works of JND are now on-line. The web address is: http://www.stempublishing.com/
Love to you and your wife!
Affectionately in the Lord, Van Costen.
Dear Van,
The CD would be very welcome.
It would be good to have a telephone chat some time. If you agree I can call you at your convenience, if you send you phone number.
We are increasingly feeling the frailties of age but proving His great mercies.
With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
Beloved Brother,
I thank God for your web site. It is very helpful and I have directed many brethren to it.
I hope that you are well. I am thankful to know you dear brother.
Most Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Van Costen.
Dear Van, We have put our condo apartment up for sale and hope to move to a nearby Christian retirement home in early April.
I would still like to have a phone chat if you will send your number and convenient times.
Thanks again. Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Van Costen
Beloved Brother,
I am sending you some photos that may be useful on your website. Phil Hamilton and Mina Taylor [nephew and niece respectively of, J. Taylor] gave most of these to me although some came to me from Belfast.
I hope that you are well and blessed of the Lord! I pray for you often.
Most warmly in the Lord, Van Costen.
From: Van Costen
Beloved Brother, The Lord bless you and your dear wife. I hope that your move went smoothly to your new residence!
Warmest love in the Lord Jesus, Van Costen.
To: Van Costen
Dear Van, What a coincidence! I am just ready to post that 1879 list on MB. I have had it for many years. If you have any other items of interest please let me know.
Our move went fairly well and we are still settling in.
With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Van Costen
Dear Brother, I am so glad that you are settling in.
There is an amazing photo of CAC on your site that I have never seen! Mr. Coates looks to be very old and ill. From where did this photo come? I love CAC's ministry and have been greatly helped through the years by it. I believe the Teignmouth meeting room is still open, or at least it was, 15 years ago.
I do have other things of interest: a handwritten copy of JND's will, a handwritten letter from JND, a handwritten letter from FER and other things. These are buried deep in my files and will take some time to locate.
With much love in the Lord, Van.
To: Van Costen
Dear Van, Again, unfortunately I don't recall the source of that photo of CAC. He certainly does look old and ill.
You say: "I do have other things of interest: a handwritten copy of JND's will, a handwritten letter from JND, a handwritten letter from FER and other things. These are buried deep in my files and will take some time to locate." When you are able I would be very interested to see those items.
With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Van Costen
Beloved Brother,
I have pondered why there would be this suggestion that CAC changed his mind. I think it may be that those that say this see value in CAC's ministry and want to prove that CAC really never believed what he taught, therefore freeing his ministry to be read. There is no doubt in my mind that CAC never changed his mind.
Most affectionately in the Lord, Van.
To: Van Costen
Dear Van,
Thanks for your comments and the extracts which are now posted in My Stand.
We of course do no believe CAC would change his mind and that the suggestion was only made to support the wrong views of others.
In Him, Gordon.
From: Van Costen
Dear Brother,
Warmest, Van.
From: Van Costen
Beloved Brother,
Most affectionately in the Lord, Van Costen.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian,
I did not know your parents personally but have a fairly good xerox
of a photo which was taken, I believe, when they were here in Toronto in
October 1957.
In the early 1970's I was in contact with Philip Haddad and have all
of your father's ministry which he published, and value it highly.
I have seen a good deal of the letters etc. circulated in the early 1960's and have no doubt that your father was very badly mistreated, along with Mr. E. J. Hemmings and others.
I do hope that you will respond favourably.
Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Brian Cowell
Dear Gordon, I have written a document criticizing a book entitled "God, Chance and Necessity" by Keith Ward, Prof. of Theology at Oxford University.
The reason why I am sending it to you is that it might be a good summary of my position re evolution which could be of use to you.
Yours in the Lord Jesus, Brian
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian,
The objectives of "My Brethren" are in a quite different area, but I
would be interested to know how your work progesses and when it is
completed.
I know you will not like to speak of yourself but in view of level
of your paper and the "Dr." on your address label I, personally, would
be interested to learn your academic attainments. I hope you don't mind.
Laurie Twinam writes, "Brian mentioned to me a Mervyn Morgan of
Ross-on-Wye who has done some research on GRC and his connection with
JTJr;
Does MM have an e-mail address? I would like to find out the scope of his project, and to encourage him in proceeding with it when his health permits.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian, In case you haven't checked 'My Brethren' lately, we are making good progress on your father's ministry – almost half completed. Besides posting on MB, all our work is forwarded to — for use on a CD he is assembling.
The audio CD of some GRC's ministry you mentioned to — sounds very interesting. He may have asked you already, but I think there are many who would value a copy, if you were agreeable. I hope I'm not going to far in suggesting that —, who has the expertise, might be able to help in this.
I should have emailed you earlier to thank you for the good photo of your father which came via —. It is a fine addition to Biograpy: G. R. Cowell
and his ministry on MB.
We think of you and your wife in our prayers.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Brian Cowell
Dear Gordon,
I do not seem to have any correspondence of my father, and the only poems of mother are in her booklet 'Scattered Seed' of which I have very few copies.
Yours in Christ, Brian.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian, I hope I am right in assuming that the tapes from — are not the same as ministry on your CD. Thanks for his address. I'm considering writing to him to see if he could supply me with a set of tapes. I am able to duplicate tapes, so that they could be available for brethren on this continent who would be interested.
Thanks for all your help.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Brian Cowell
Dear Gordon,
Yours in Christ, Brian.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian,
Perhaps you could help as to Hubert Calvey. We have little information as to him personally and wonder if you know any details that you could share with us.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
From: Brian Cowell
Dear Gordon,
I am so glad you enjoy my Father's ministry. I enjoy the
straightforward expository addresses and readings, but dear Dad was exclusive to the very end of his life.
I now feel more towards the Open Brethren position. "Let a man judge himself..." We are not to be judges unless flagrant and obvious sin in evident and is persisted in.
Love in our Lord Jesus, Brian.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian,
I suspect that there was a very good reason that your father "was exclusive to the very end of his life".
Around 1915, he came into fellowship with the brethren at Debdon Green, near Thaxted, Essex.
"I saw it working first in a farm labourer's cottage;
"I saw the mystery working among the poor of the flock, and that is how it was made known to me for I did not know the doctrine of it then.
"I came into the company of simple folk who loved one another. They had love among themselves.
"Masters and servants were there according to the truth of the body, without respect of persons, and riches were flowing in from the ascended Head.
"They had not human learning, but proved that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge were available in the mystery, because all are in Christ, the Head of the body, the assembly.
"The mystery in that sense, was made known in that little company, and it freed me once and for all from the whole dead weight of Christendom as built up by man". July 15, 1961, 'Jesus in Control', Vol. 8: 84
While my course was certainly not as even as your father's – as also being 1st generation 'brethren' – I can appreciate his continuance in his commitment.
It is a great privilege to have been brought up in a home where the truths that have come to light in – what I at least believe to he – the recovery are known and practised,
No, Brian, I certainly do not think of you as a "heretic" but as one of my brethren.
It is sorrowful indeed that many who once walked happily together are now separated and comiiteed, in many instances, to widely differing views and positions.
#421 11.10.11.10. Miss A. Ross
WHAT will it be when all life's toil is finished,
What will it be when all the strife is over,
What will it be when sorrow's day is ended,
What will it be? - In blest anticipation
I trust I have not offended, Brian, but have simply spoken plainly as to my convictions, as you yourself have done.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Brian Cowell
Dear Brian,
Extract from a Letter dated 9th November 1961
… I ought also to make clear that I cannot accept the doctrine that those walking together in separation are at liberty to attend religious services held by sects around us.
I love and value believers in the sects and would do all I could for them.
G. R. Cowell
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Jonathan Crosby
Dear Jonathan,
I am glad to have heard from you and trust you will review the above
thoughts in the brotherly spirit in which they are shared.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Jonathan Crosby
Dear Jonathan, I will be glad to hear from you from time to time, and thanks again
for writing.
Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.
To: Edwin Cross
Dear Edwin,
I would be interested to hear how your research progresses.
In our Lord, Gordon.
From: Edwin Cross
Dear brother Gordon,
Regarding William Reid – I have been in touch with Bernt Lindberg – we have worked on WR quite a bit. Bernt has had a great deal of info from this end. But probably there is still something fresh to uncover through 'folk-memory' even if he was taken in 1881.
Re CHM – Thanks for your kind offer to use the info on your site.
In my researches, which I hope to have published, I have no intention to attack or intrude upon the dignity of the position other brethren take – and I do ask that this be reciprocated – I believe, beyond doubt, that it will be in your case.
Would you be so kind as to note on your website that Chapter Two has changed address?
Chapter Two Trust – Head Office and Warehouse Chapter Two – Christian Bookshop E-mail: chapter2ukATaol.com With Christian greetings, Edwin N. Cross.
From: Edwin Cross
Edward Dennett has a half page obit in 'Chief Men Among the Brethren'. He deserves more.
During 1881 J. N. Darby (1800-1882) paid a visit [13 May] to the Kent village of Sevenoaks for a rest from his work.
I still have not had anybody from Croydon or who knew any old brother or sister in that locality pass on any reminiscences re Dennett and his surviving, spinster daughter.
George Cutting went with London, Arthur Cutting with Glanton – both were evangelists.
One final point I am also researching the writer Arthur Pridham of Weston-super-Mare, circa 1815 1879, erstwhile tutor to Dr. A. T. Schofield.
Many thanks, Edwin N. Cross.
To: Edwin Cross
Dear Edwin,
Having had extensive personal contacts years ago with brethren you refer to as 'Kelly' and 'Lowe' – as well as being familiar with their writings – I can understand "the FER/CHM matter" seeming "enigmatic".
I do appreciate that you say "I have no intention to attack or intrude upon the dignity of the position other brethren take".
The additional information you share as to ED, Geo.C. and AC is most interesting. I hope to be able to use some of it in brief biographical sketches of ED and GC in the future. Of course, you will be noted as the source.
You mention Croydon and Sevenoaks regarding ED. I have contacts in both places who might be able to come up with some details. I will let you know if any facts come to light.
Thanks again for all the information. I trust that more becomes available to aid in your own work which should be of great value.
In our Lord, Gordon.
From: Edwin Cross
Dear Gordon,
Meanwhile, keep going on and keep looking up!
Kind regards, Edwin.
From: Edwin Cross
Does anyone know anything about Mr. Herbert George Brand (1865-1942) of Forest Hill, London SE, who laboured in Japan starting around 1890s and was instrumental in establishing perhaps 20 assemblies.
I have a few books written by HGB but no biographical information except in Korean which I cannot read! – apart from the dates of his life.
Yours in the Lord Jesus, Edwin.
From: Edwin Cross
I am not getting very far with my researches on Geo. and Arthur Cutting nor the following A. J. Pollock, F. B. Hole, Arthur [Wellesley] Pridham, Edward Crowley, Edward Cronin, Gustaf Gusstafson of Sweden, M. W. Biggs, William Reid and various other brethren.
I have around 200 pages of info on W. Kelly and 100 pages plus on CHM.
Your site has numerous very interesting historical items and I hope these will be of use to many as they are to me and that the Lord will grant you grace to keep the presentation of the material in an objective way.
Kind Regards, Edwin Cross.
To: Edwin Cross
Dear Edwin, Thanks for the details re burial of Joseph Pellatt. Such information is hard to come by on this side.
Yes, we would be interested to see the "report of the burial of FER". I assume it is not the same one already on Biography: F. E. Raven: His Burial. Have you checked?
Do you have any details as to a Mr. R. M. Beverley? I have the references in Coad, Rowdon, Christian Brethren Archives and WK's 'JND, as I Knew Him'.
If we can be of any help with your 100 page info on CHM – proofreading etc. – please let us know.
Yes, we are committed to present historical material objectively.
We appreciate hearing from you and hope to receive the items noted above.
May His blessing be on you. In the Lord, Gordon.
From: Edwin Cross
Dear Gordon,
The items re FER burial and JT's Marriage meetings etc. can only be supplied by snail mail. Please give me your postal address and when I am back from the trade exhibition I will attend to your requirements.
R. M. Beverley was a Quaker who perhaps edited 'The Inquirer' magazine 1838-1840? – though GVW may have had some editorial role in it too.
R. Mackenzie Beverley came among Brethren following the Beaconite controversy which split the Quaker Movement – many then coming among Brethren in the 1830s, and influencing its mode of worship too!
Among R Mackenzie Beverley titles in my library are:
Objectivity is essential, but admittedly not too easy to present without personal bias.
With Christian greetings, Edwin N. Cross.
To: Edwin Cross
Dear Edwin, The information on R. M. Beverley is most welcome and of great interest.
Yes, I'm familiar with the valuable quote from JBS on bias. We seek grace to be preserved from it in regard to the interpretation of history.
In our Lord, Gordon.
From: Edwin Cross
Dear brother in Christ,
He wrote: "The Evangelical Clergy have brewed new wine, but they have not procured new bottles," [from Examination page 76].
That is all for the present – more to follow when time permits. Some photocopies of items of interest to follow soonest in the post.
Kind greetings, Edwin Cross.
To: Edwin Cross
Dear Edwin,
In our Lord Jeus, Gordon.
To: Gary Cuccia
Dear Gary, I'm not sure whether your second separate message is meant for MB as it
is not addressed to MB.
In the Lord, Gordon.
From: Gary Cuccia
Gordon,
Bless you and if you would rather not be on the email list please let me know. God bless you, Gary.
To: Gary Cuccia
Dear Gary, 'My Brethren' has received earlier complaints from some guests because they believe they are the target of unsolicited and unwanted email as a result of their email addresses appearing on MB.
I'm glad you have benefited by the ministry of Mr. C. A. Coates, as I have.
Your further message, just received, on the greatness of Christ has some strange phrases: "this Awesome God, the Lord Jesus" and "the GOD-Man".
None of the above is intended as mere criticism, Gary, but is offered in a brotherly spirit and in the interest of the truth and your own spiritual welfare.
In the Lord, Gordon.
David Canfield
davidATbiblesandbooks.com
Chicago, IL, USA
Sat, 3 May, 2003
Welcome to ‘My Brethren’. Thanks for the explanation of your interest in the ministry of C. A. Coates and for your brotherly inquiry as to use of MB’s biographical sketch on your web site.Rodolfo Carnio
rcarnioATabout.com
Viña del Mar, Chile
Mon, 22 Jan 2001
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. You are MB's first guest from Chile!
Scott Carroll
To: Scott Carroll
scarrollATdatanet.ab.ca
Sherwood Park, Alberta (nr. Edmonton), Canada
Sun, 30 May 1999
Glad to hear from you and trust you make some contacts. We've all made and value "new" friends, but still miss our "old" friends very much.
Tue, 18 Apr 2000
Thanks for signing in again. I'm glad to get your current email address. I hope you found something of interest.
Randal Cave
patrandcaveATsympatico.ca
Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Mon, 26 Mar 2001
We have guests from many lands, but it is always good to have a visit
from a near neighbour such as yourself. I hope you find MB profitable
and come back. Please feel free to share something as to yourself.
Wed, 4 Apr 2001
Thu, 5 Apr 2001
Thanks for sharing your background and your childhood memories of the times of gospel help at the home of Mrs. Eves in Holywood.Marcus Chapman
Croydon, UK
Fri, 09 Apr 1999
As you desire, I trust that you will be contacted by some "who are
concerned to follow a 2 Timothy 2 pathway in these difficult days".
Fri, 09 Jul 1999
We had a good visit with Tom Hawkins yesterday, and expect him and Pat
on Lord's Day. They are visiting Pat's sister nearby.
Tue, 13 Jul 1999
We were delighted to get your message yesterday and to know that you had a good time with Tom and Pat. As you know, we too enjoyed our times with them and also enjoy keeping in touch by means of E-Mail.
Mon, 8 Nov 1999
Many thanks your message. We do trust that you are being encouraged, and that the contacts you make will be fruitfull!
Tue, 09 Nov 1999
Glad to hear from you again. No, I don't have W.K. on Ezra and Nehemiah, although I will doubtless find it in the "Bible Treasury".
Tue, 9 Nov 1999
Many thanks your speedy response re Fred Deayton. Yes, I thought that he was still in the Jims. His wife has a sister in the Rentons in Plumstead. She is in her 80's now.
Fri, 19 Nov 1999
I am forwarding a Nov. 13 message from Alistair Deayton re your inquiry as to Ron Gregory with this e-mail and a subsequent Nov. 15 correction.
Wed, 5 Dec 2001
Tom and Pat Hawkins were with us last weekend and they spoke of their contacts with you and your wife. Trust that this note finds you well.
Mon, 5 Nov 2007
I would very much like to sign your guestbook as my wife and I have appreciated the helpful articles and information made available through your labours. May the Lord richly bless you for this!
Sun, 11 Nov 2007
I must apologise very belatedly for posting a link to the MB website last October on ——. I should have contacted you first to ask for permission and I do apologise for this omission.
Tue, 13 Nov 2007
No apology necessary. We are very happy for a link to MB to be shown wherever it might do some good.
Sun, 11 Nov 2007
… Whilst sending to you I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you in your work for the Lord Jesus and his people in relation to the MB website. We always get help and edification from the articles you post.
Wed, 28 Nov 2007
How good to hear from you again! Your words of encouragement are much appreciated, and
needed to let us be assured that our labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Wed, 28 Jan, 2009
We are so glad to hear from you and trust that through the God's mercy you are both keeping well.
It has been quite cold here, but I guess that you have it far colder than us!!
Thu, 29 Jan, 2009
Thanks for you prompt reply and all the interesting Park Street information. You will see that I have forwarded the pertinent part of your reply to C. Chen and Reg Flowerdew.
Fri, 06 Feb, 2009
We have a young brother here who is deeply interested in the history of the brethren and who would be willing to give these dear brethren a tour of the "Darby" sites in London -- the house where he was born, his school, the hose where he lived etc.
Tues, 10 March
Thank you so much for your interesting enclosure from Christian Chen. We were really interested to learn about his visit to the Uk and more importantly the spiritual blessing that he and others have received from brethren ministry.
Fri, 13 March, 2009
Thanks for your kind words as to MB -- and especially for the files of GRC's ministry which you and Janette and others are transcribing.
Fri, 13 March, 2009
Please find attached 1 incomplete set of meetings at Markinch. Unfortunately 1 double sided page is missing!
Sat, 14 March, 2009
Thu, 30 April, 2009
Mon, 4 May, 2009
Thanks for your continuing service. An email has been sent to those who helped you and their names shown in appropriate spot on 'Site News: Thanks to Helpers'.
Mon, 9 Nov, 2009
I hope that this email finds you and your wife well. I am sorry not to have been in touch with you more regularly but I still have a busy schedule with work and meetings etc.
Wed, 11 Nov, 2009
It's always good to hear from you, but I well understand how various pressures hinder. Your comments on the work of MB are appreciated.
Sat, 17 Feb, 2010
I have not been in touch for a while as things are pretty hectic here!
Sun, 28 Feb, 2010
Good to hear from you again and that you both are surviving the weather. We have had a pretty mild winter here so far, but the east coast is having much snow and cold. Thanks for the new email addresses.
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010
I have been looking for a photo of Janette and myself, together with our sons, to send you, but all our photos are with one of us taking them! Here is one of me, and I will send you one of all of us as soon as we can get someone to do the honours! Would rather you do not put this on
your web-site!
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010
Interesting to see you -- as close as face to face as we shall likely get down here. A family photo will be very welcome!!
Fri, 10 Dec, 2010
Thanks and congratulations on your continuing labours.
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010
I am so glad to hear from you. Janette and I were just talking about you and Betty last night!
I do trust that you are both well and keeping warm. We have just had 30cms of snow in the South East of England which is unusual here for early December!
Once again, thank you for your encouragement on this account. You will be interested tp learn that we continue to be encouraged in Croydon and often have visitors to the gospel meeting. We pray that not only may the Lord be pleased to bless gospel outreach, but most of all that the precious truth of Christ and the assembly may be rightly set forth in our gatherings.
Yours very affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Marcus
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010
Good to hear from you! Yes, we are reasonably well as we trust you both are. We heard of your snow fall -- similar to ours.
Fri, 17 Dec, 2010
I just wanted to share a little encouragement with you as I have just recived an email from a brother requesting the notes saying he heard about them on your web-site. I do appreciate your putting the notice on your site. May the Lord continue to bless your labours!
Thu, 10 Feb, 2011
Thank you for sending me news of a dear brother who, it appears, finds himself alone as the result of unsound teaching permeating the company of saints where he lives.
I do trust that you and Betty are well.
We had an excellent weekend in Croydon with Ralf Maurer, a brother from Cologne. It was very encouraging to listen to a brother speaking in a language not his mother tongue and yet edifying us all!
Your brother in Him, Marcus.
Thu, 10 Feb, 2011
I appreciate your willingness to contact Laurens Overduin, and look forward to hearing any news.
Great to hear of the good time in Croydon with Ralf Maurer!
We keep "reasonably" well, and greet Janette with you.
MB Ministry: CAC 6: The Calling Wherewith We are Called --
MB Ministry: F. S, Marsh 2: Citizenship.
Tue, 31 Jan 2012
We do hope that you and your wife are keeping well in spite of the cold weather, which I am sure is much worse with you!
Whilst sorting out his papers we came across several very interesting documents. There is a copy of a document prepared by the late George Strang of Edinburgh outlining his view of the sad matters in Edinburgh in 1972 and co-signed by several brothers in Edinburgh
We join in sending our much love in the Lord Jesus to you all, Your brother in Him, Marcus.
Mom, 6 Feb 2012
So good to hear from you.
G. M. Strang To R. W. Drummond - March 2, 1972
Thu., September 26, 2013
It was great to speak to you whilst we were with Tom & Pat Hawkins two weeks ago. I am sorry to learn of your deafness. We had a very happy time with them in Philadelphia and enjoyed the brief visit.
It certainly was good to speak with you -- and to receive your email and the fine family photo.
Wm. S. Chellberg
wscATbibles-and-resources.com
Wheaton (Chicago) Illinois, USA
Sun, Sep 25, 2011
My name is Gordon Rainbow and my wife Betty is a sister of Mary (Phil) Schaumburg. We visited Chicago many, many years ago. I believe I have heard your name mentioned in contact with my old friend Noel Brien. We remember your father and grandfather as well.
Sun, Sep 25, 2011
It is nice to hear from you. We, of course, knew Mary Schaumburg well, and also remember your visit.
I have occasionally visited your web site and the considerable amount of helpful material you have shared there. I am sure many must find help there.
Gary's Blog -- http://kjellbergprinting.blogspot.com/
www.kjellpub.com
www.bibles-etc.com
www.sound-words.com
-- Enjoy!
Tue, Sep 27, 2011
Thanks for your prompt and brotherly reply -- and the local details, and information as to your work providing bibles and books. Though "not profitable" there will no doubt be a fitting reward from His hands.
Tue, Sep 27, 2011
Thanks for your encouraging remarks. Yes, we should stay in contact.
Luke Chen
xiaochenATrci.rutgers.edu
Highland Parl, NJ, USA
Fri, 17 Aug 2001
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Your "goal … to write a book to introduce the history of Plymouth Brethren to Chinese-speaking christians" is quite ambitious, but I have no doubt that the Lord will help you if the exercise is from Himself.
Mon, 20 Aug 2001
Thanks for your message. Of course I agree to all the conditions you listed.
Tue, 21 Aug 2001
The fact that you are not a historian need not deter you. The articles
on 'My Brethren' are all from reliable authors and, I believe, can be
accepted in full without any qualms.5. that the English versions of any pages from 'My Brethren' are not to
be reproduced in English or any other language except Chinese, their
only use offered to you to be for translation into Chinese.
Chew
chew_ehATrocketmail.com
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Sat, 16 Oct 1999
Glad you found some interesting articles on MB. It would help if you let me know which articles, or kinds of article, were of special interest.
Hin Han Chin
"han chin" renfredhAThotmail.com
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sun, 28 Mar 1999
My application [for permanent residence status in U.S.A.] is not under review. Once the dateline is over, there's no continuation. Applicants must apply anew.
Sun, 11 Apr 1999
Thanks for your reply and your perceptive comments on Peter Hsieh's
message.
Sun, 18 Jul 1999
Glad to hear from you. I am doing O.K. I haven't touched the internet for
about two months because of the various viruses. I haven't received the
"Letters of James Taylor" but I look forward to receiving them.
Fri, 29 Dec 2000
I have been reading some of the books you sent me though not regularly.
Tue, 02 Jan 2001
It was both a joy and a relief to hear from you after so long a time,
Thu, 25 Jan 2001
Good to hear from you again. I can access the other web sites too; don't
worry.
Mon, 19 Dec 2005
I am ok and have been going to some full gospel businessmen non denominational meetings. I got to hear many speakers and pastors speak. I usually go back to check our brethren bible to verify.
Mon, 19 Dec 2005
Thanks for your full reply. It's good to know how you are getting on but you don't mention your brother this time.
Fri, 30 Dec 2005
I'll just try to reply to your questions on baptism this time, and trust the answers won't be too brief to be useful to you.
Tue, 4 Jan 2011
This is Han from Malaysia. I hope you receive this email. I know you are old from the audio tapes that Carl Coombs sent me more than a decade ago, so I just hope you can still operate computer. Time flies.
I have grown spiritually. Now I can debunk and show others some right understanding of the scriptures based on scriptures
themselves.
Surprisingly, Christ's humbleness and greatest love of God are the keys.
Sat, 8 Jan 2011
I see you have anglicized your name. It is good to hear from you after such a long time -- and I of course bear part of the responsibility for that. I often wonder how you are getting on. I found the photos very interesting. Thanks
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.
'Chloe' / pseudonym
cloez2000ATyahoo.com
Australia
Tue, 8 Jan, 2002
Thank you for visiting 'My Brethren' and for your kind words.
for some relevant information.
History: The Parting of the Ways – 1960's – and in 1970.
Wed, 9 Jan 2002
Thanks for that. There's an Exclusive Brethren chapel, or whatever they are called, at the top of my street.
Wed, 16 Jan 2002
I can well understand you feeling "a bit envious". Betty and I –
after over 30 years apart from them – still miss our brethren and the round of meetings.
Sun, 27 Jan 2002
Thanks again for putting me in contact with 'Anonymous 6'. We have begun to email and I hope we will be some help to each other.
Tue, 29 Jan 2002
Thanks for message. I'm so glad that you and 'Anonymous 6' have made
contact! Another guest wrote recently:
Thu, 31 Jan 2002
This is the fourth time I've tried to tell you about my history, as every time it's suddenly been deleted.
Thu, 31 Jan 2002
Thanks for sharing your history on MB. The Lord obviously convicted you
as to the rightness of head coverings, modest clothing, and several
other matters you mention,Pascal-Eric Chomel
pe.chomelATlibertysurf.fr
Romans, France
Sun, 11 Jan 2004
Bienvenue! Welcome to 'My Brethren'! Sorry you had trouble emailing us but can't understand or explain. Perhaps you were on our old site which will soon be closed but, even so, the mail form there should have worked.
Mon, 12 Jan 2004
Wed, 7 Jul 2004
I noticed an answer you made about Sir Robert Anderson in 2001: "Membership in the Masons and other secret societies has always been condemned by those brethren commonly known as 'exclusive', based on 2 Corinthians 6:14 - 7:1".
Sat, 10 Jul 2004
Thanks for writing once again, it's good to hear more from you. Gordon has asked me to respond to your question this time. I hope you don't mind, but I wonder if you would clarify the last sentence of your email? I wasn't quite sure of the object of your question.
J.T. It would, but the body implies more than unity, although unity must be there first; but it is an organism, 'We … are one body in Christ', Romans 12: 5, suggests unity, but it is unity 'in Christ', not like freemasonry. The organism is in 1 Corinthians 12, where we are viewed as vitally linked with each other by the Spirit." J .Taylor 13: 347
Sat, 10 Jul 2004
Thanks for the answer with references. My question was actually on statements in brethren's books which could be so clear.Vincenzo Cimmino
cimmino.vincenzoATenel.it
Castellammare di Stabia, Naples, Italy
Mon, 1 Jan 2001
Welcome to MB. You are our first guest from Italy.
Tue, 2 Jan 2001
mine is: cimmino.vincenzoATenel.it.Billy, Alva and Stephen Clark
billalvasteveATmsn.com
Visalia, California, USA
Wed, 25 Oct 2000
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I hope you find something of special interest
and that you will return from time to time.
Alan Clarke
TullochLodgeATcs.com
Scotland
Sat, 22 Jan 2000
Unfortunately the photo you refer to did not come up on Dick's site. But with a little research I believe I've discovered the photo to which you refer.
Sat, 22 Jan 2000
Many thanks for replying so promptly. I have looked up your web site (what a
mine of information – I didn't know of it) and checked the photo there.
Sat, 22 Jan 2000
You are welcome to copy the photo from MB, although the quality is
rather poor.
Peter Clarke
clarketrimATshaw.ca
Victoria, BC, Canada
Mon, 13 May 2002
I'm glad you "stumbled" on to 'My Brethren'. Perhaps you will return
and especially check the valuable ministry of Mr. G. R. Cowell which is
being added.
Mon, 13 May 2002
The very sad situation is there appears to be many children leaving who
have no evident link with the Lord at all.
Wed, 15 May 2002
Thank you for your full and interesting reply, sharing your experience
and exercises.Sarah Clarke
sjclarkeATisland.net
Victoria, BC, Canada
Wed, 05 Jan 2000
Greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ. I saw your name on the brethren website, and that brought back memories. I doubt you will remember me.
Fri, 07 Jan 2000
Thank you for writing. We certainly do remember you well!
Tue, 16 Jan 2001
Just having a browse through your website tonight and very much enjoyed
it.
Wed, 17 Jan 2001
Thanks very much for visiting MB again and for your message. It is always good to hear from old friends.
Mon, 22 Jan 2001
Since receiving your recent encouraging message on MB, I noticed your request on Dick's site for stories from women for your proposed book "Women's Myths on Marriage and Singleness". Perhaps you will excuse some remarks from a man ;-) not for your book, of course.
My comments are posted as
Guests: My Stand 4: Wrong Attitude towards Women.
Thu, 12 Jan 2006
My heartfelt apologies I haven't got back to you before re your comments on my book "Debunking Women's Myths on Marriage and Singleness". I don't often check the website. The book is presently on hold due to so much else going on in both my personal and work life.
Fri, 13 Jan 2006
No need to apologize – but so glad to hear from you any time.
Mon, 28 May 2007
Elizabeth and I enjoyed our visit with you , but good to be home again. And I thought Toronto was big in '71!
Fri, 6 Dec 2008
Please convey my love to Rosemary and Flora, and thanks so much Betty for delivering the catds earlier this year.
Fri, 19 Dec 2008
Thanks for your note and all the family news, your kind remarks re 'My Brethren' and especially the photo of the Clarke ladies!
Sat, 20 Dec 2008
Perhaps a "thanks" for a thank you seems silly but I did want to respond to your gracious note. Not everyone cares for Christmas cards so I didn't wish to offend you and I'm glad I didn't .
Thu, 25 Dec 2008
A 'thank you" wasn't necessary, but we're glad to hear from you -- at any time of year.
Thu, Apr 15 2010
Thu Apr 15, 2010
Good to hear from you again …Kevin Connelly
To: Kevin Connelly
outthereATprovide.net
West Branch, MI, USA
Fri, 31 Jan 2003
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. We would be interested in knowing your particular interest and, if you are free to share, some details of your background.
Carl Coombs
coombsATyesic.com
Toronto, Canada
Mon, 01 Feb 1999
Thanks for dropping in and for the comments.
Van Costen
jecostenATcox.net
Chesapeake, VA, USA
Mon, 24 Nov 2003
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Glad you enjoyed the visit. Do come again and feel free to share your background and exercise.
Tue, 21 Dec 2004
I note that in your correspondence with Brian Cowell there is mention of a CD Rom of GRC's audio ministry. I would love to get hold of a copy of this CD Rom. How may I get a copy?
Fri, 24 Dec 2004
Our earlier hope of help from a brother in the UK to make a CD didn't work out. However your interest prompts us to try again. We'll let you know if we are successful. There is something special about hearing a brother's voice beyond mere reading. Thanks for the nudge.
From: Van Costen
Fri, 14 Jan 2005
If I can have your mailing address please, I will send to you in several weeks a CD ROM with an audio reading with JTSr in 1949 in Westfield and also an address by Percy Lyon in 1947 in Cranford, NJ.
To: Van Costen
Fri, 4 Jan 2005
Thanks very much for all the information, especially as to JND's ministry.
From: Van Costen
By Regular Mail
Wed, 2 Feb 2005
I am enclosing a copy of the 2 items, on 1 disc, which I promised to you. The CD is labelled for your convenience.
To: Van Costen
Fri, 4 Jan 2005
Thanks very much for the valuable CD which plays fine. Even at highest volume I have difficulty hearing it, but that may be because of my own hearing disability. I'll keep looking for a solution.
Thu, 26 May 2005
Thu, 26 May 2005
I have some very interesting scans of pages from JTSr's personal files listing meetings in the USA and Canada in 1879, complete with names and addresses of the rooms and brothers to contact. The files are very large so I will wait to send these to you after you have had a chance to download and save the photos I have just sent.
Thu, 26 May 2005
Thanks for all the photos. I already had some but several others will certainly be useful.
Thu, 26 May 2005
Can you tell me any history of the 1879 list? Uncle Phil (Hamilton) told me that JTSr gave him his copy probably in the '30s. How long have you had yours?
Thu, 26 May 2005
My 1879 copy came from a brother here in Toronto in the mid 1960's. Like yourself I have always been interested in collecting historical documents but do not know where or how the brother obtained it.
Thu, 26 May 2005
I was looking at your site again today and stumbled on the discussion that there was a difference at the end of CAC's life of his view of the Lord's sonship supported by comments from FA Hughes and GA Lucas.
Van's whole email, including the 2 quotations from CAC not shown here, is on
My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 2.
Thu, 26 May 2005
Tue, 31 May 2005
There is a picture that exists of JND as a very old man in front of a meeting room, in London I believe. He has a big white beard and is leaning on a cane.
Tue, 31 May 2005
There has been an attempt to also promote the view that there was hidden conflict and bad feelings between CAC and JTSr.
The complete letter is in Guests: My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 2 Brian Cowell
CowellSCIATaol.net
Subject: Biographical Sketch of Mr. G. R. Cowell
Wed, 16 Dec 1998
I am interested in expanding a brief biographical sketch of your father – and mother – for my web site "My Brethren", and hope that you will be free to share some personal information with me.
Subject: Biographical details of Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Cowell
Sat, 26 Dec 1998
Herewith all the details you require as far as I can remember. [See Biography: G. R. Cowell.]
Tue, 12 Jan 1999
Thank you for the science section of your proposed book on evolution which I read with great interest.
Tue, 1 Oct 2002
I was glad to hear some news of you via —, although I feel deeply with you as to your wife's condition and your own recent health problems.
Sun, 6 Oct 2002
One problem with the CD of my father's ministry is that my computer jumps tracks and some I can't access it all. Whether that is the fault of the CD or my CD reader I don't quite know.
Thu, 10 Oct 2002
— would be happy to copy the CD and your mother's poems if you would loan them to him for return to you when completed. This would be easier for you than sending them to me.
Sun, 13 Oct 2002
I think the tapes were all from the CD, but, as I said before, the CD does not play well on my instrument. I don't know if the fault lies in the CD or my computer.
Thu, 3 Apr 2003
I was very interested to see your entry on Dick Wymans's web site. It reminded me that I should have written to you again.
Thu, 3 Apr Mon 2003
Thanks for e-mail. Regarding Calvey, I think he must now be with the
Lord. He was quite elderly when I was in my 30s and I am now 76.
Mon, 7 Apr 2003
Your comments on Mr. Calvey's 'Confrontation' are noted.
and when I saw it working I was delivered from all
the religious associations of men which we call Christendom.
And we have entered our eternal rest;
When past for ever is the night of weeping,
And with Thee, Lord, we are for ever blest!
And all Thy saints, now scattered far and wide,
Shall be without one shade of variation,
All like Thee, Lord, united by Thy side!
And pain and grief for ever passed away;
When with Thee, Lord, we share the bright forever,
In perfect peace throughout the perfect day!
E'en now our hearts outpour in praise to Thee;
But when we see Thee face to face in glory,
Then purer, sweeter, shall our praises be.
Wed, 23 Apr 2003
In view of our recent correspondence, I thought you would be interested in the following.Jonathan Crosby
scrosbyAThome.com
Greenville, SC, USA
Tue, 6 Mar 2001
It isn't clear to me – since there is no mention of 'My Brethren' – whether your message addressed to "Dear Seeker of Truth" is a result of your visit,
The complete reply is posted on
Guests: My Stand 3: Sonship and Incarnation.
Thu, 15 Mar 2001
Thanks for your prompt reply. I have been delayed with a long case of
the flu.
The complete reply is appended to
Guests: My Stand 3: Sonship and Incarnation.
Edwin Cross – With Christ, c. November 2009
ecross7023ATaol.com
London, England
Sat, 18 Jan, 2003
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. I'll post a Bulletin on Site News with your inquiry as well as putting your message in the Guest Book.
Sat, 18 Jan 2003
Thanks for your message. I do hope we get some info re E. Dennett. Since he died in 1914 I would have thought someone in the London meetings would have a memory of his ministry.
Fountain House, Conduit Mews, Woolwich,
Tel (++44)[0]20 8316 5389, fax 020 8854 5963
199 Plumstead Common Road, Plumstead Common,
Tel (++44)[0]20 8316 4972
website: www.chaptertwo.org.uk
Registered Charity No 1053047.
Sat, 18 Jan 2003
In a letter to my dear son in the faith, George Cutting, I remarked that we must never forget that the speaker is but a voice; and the writer, but a pen. Our oral ministry must prove to be but a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal; and our writing, so much waste paper, if they be not clothed with the power of the spirit. The abiding sense of this would keep us self-emptied and dependent the true secret of spiritual power. Ah! to know more of this! I ardently long for it, both for myself and all the Lord's beloved servants.
Fri, 31 Jan 2003
Your emails of January 18 and 30 and the information are much appreciated.
Fri, 31 Jan 2003
I am just off to the Cairo Bookfair and then Israel and for ministry among some of the saints in both lands.
Sun, 16 Feb 2003
Thu, 9 May Jan 2003J. PELLATT 1843-1913
Dear brothers,
You may wish to amend your info on Mr Joseph Pellatt. You say he was buried in London – this is so, but too general.
Thu, 15 May Jan 2003
I trust you got on well in your recent trip to Egypt and Israel, and am glad to hear from you again.
Sat, 17 May 2003
Thanks for your message. The trip to Egypt to see the Brethren in Cairo and Alexandria was most encouraging.
Title, date, publisher, place, pages
Sat, 17 May 2003
Thanks very much for your prompt and informative reply. Perhaps when you are free you could mail the FER and JT items?
Sun, 19 May 2003
Here is some more info re Robert Mackenzie Beverley – born 1797/8 died 1868, one of the early Brethren teachers.
Tue, 09 Sep 2003
Here is some information from John Shinn in answer to your enquiry re
Mr. Brand.Gary Cuccia
garycucciaATaol.com
Whittier, California, USA, 90604
Mon, 19 Aug, 2002
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. I trust you found something of interest.
Mon, 19 Aug 2002
I have been writing devotions on the Internet for some 2 or 3 years. I am so grateful for you brothers who share what you have of the Lord.
Wed, 21 Aug 2001
Thanks for your reply and explanation.
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