The Ulster Outlook
– Divergent Views

INTRODUCTION
This page is based on 'The Ulster Outlook' No. 17 in my Historical Reference Series.

While many of the letters* relate to several other 'History' pages [note 'links'], they have been grouped together here because of the common – geographical – background of the writers, who were all known personally to each other.

[* Explanations in square brackets in the text and all footnotes, unless otherwise indicated, are mine. The use of sectarian adjectives to modify “brethren” has been let stand, although this practice is obnoxious and debasing to that holy relationship to our Lord Jesus and with each other.   GAR]

• The letters also include references to certain developments in the legal sect, which may not be recorded elsewhere.

[* See The Departure from the Truth after its Recovery.]

The position of the McMullans appears quite similar to that of James Macdonald to whom they make several references – but whether they were actually in fellowship with him – as we speak – is uncertain.*

[* See The Manchester Connection. The uncertainty is because the McMullans used the 1932 hymn book rather than J.Macd.’s – although it may not have been issued at the time they wrote.]

The letters of Charlie Cooper – December 1960-October 1961 – and John McGimpsey – December 1960-June 1961 – reflect the quite different and divergent exercises of those who separated later in 1960-61.*

[* See After My Departure, G. R. Cowell: His Trials and Stand, and From Freedom to Failure.]

The different perspectives and interpretations of the situation by the respective writers will be noted.

• It is undeniable – and proved by experience – that, over time, views tend to develop and positions are likely to become fixed.

• As a result there is usually considerable resistance to any modification in the direction of views or positions rejected earlier.

• Personal matters, however, between the writers – arising out of the circumstances of the earlier separation – appear to have been settled, but there is no evidence that a reconciliation of beliefs and practices was ever effected.

Behind these letters – and others which appear elsewhere in this series – and obvious in some of the detail transcribed, lies a great deal of anguish, suffering and tragedy.

• When I first read them, I was overwhelmed with grief for what so many of my brethren, most unknown personally and many no longer in the body, had gone through and could only cry to the Lord, “These are my people!”

The letters should be read in the context of their own particular times and circumstances – not ours.

• Read, then, with sympathy and refrain from rash or hasty judgments of brethren with a different point of view from yours –
  • “for we shall all be placed before the judgment-seat of God”, Romans 14: 10.

The Ulster Outlook – Part Two

Part Two – which because of space limitations and other considerations is not being posted at this time – contains two letters, from my own files, written by —, of Belfast,

1. to Charles W. Cooper of Belfast, December 1960,

2. to W. Ernest Winter of Donaghadee, January 1961

• – in connection with their letters of withdrawal.

Paragraphs 2 and 3 of Mr. —’s letter to Mr. Cooper were quoted in a footnote to C.W.C.’s December 8, 1960, letter of withdrawal in The Parting of the Ways, with this comment:

• “Following is the prologue of a lengthy letter of December 16, 1960 from —, of Belfast, in which he attempted to refute and ridicule C.W.C.'s reasons for withdrawal and to fasten inconsistencies on him. It would not be profitable to reproduce it all.

• “On January 2, 1961, — wrote to W. Ernest Winter, in a similar vein, commenting on his letter of withdrawal from the legal sect in Donaghadee. In that letter he also added the charge that Mr. Winter was influenced by his ‘family links’ in North Ireland”.

The repeated complaints by Mr. — that he did not quite understand or grasp what Mr. Cooper or Mr. Winter meant to convey

• are extremely tedious but are a cunning means of disparaging the writers and of discrediting genuine exercise.

Some of the statements of both Mr. Cooper and Mr. Winter might have been expressed more clearly – an all too common characteristic of many oral and written communications.

• But, surely, one who took the place – as Mr. — did – of being able to set his brethren right ought to have had the modicum of intelligence necessary to comprehend their remarks – and the grace to refrain from chiding them for every perceived shortcoming in clarity or difference with his opinion.

Mr. —’s bombastic challenges for evidence and witness – of what he ought to have known were often generalized interpretations and not verbatim quotations of statements – are impertinent, monotonous and tiresome.

• However, though thinly veiled in politeness, the tenor of his remarks accurately reflects the arrogant and contemptuous attitude that prevailed – and still prevails – towards any and all branded as opposers of “the ministry”.

Original date: 1997.

G.A.R.

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JAMES  AND  RUTH  McMULLAN

“On 4th May 1954 a Belfast brother Mr. James McMullan made a public statement to the brethren in Belfast in which first of all he quoted from the ministry of Mr. A. E. Myles in London on 20th March 1954 in regard to the “man of God” to which reference has already been made, pointing out that in it was a discernible trend towards the Romish doctrine of “implicit faith”, which means that people are to accept the church's interpretation of Scripture as authoritative and binding whether they understand it or not. “He went on to quote the warnings of Mr. J. N. Darby which have just been quoted herein. He then referred to the action taken at Carshalton in respect to the Sutton division asserting that this was iniquity from which he must depart.” From: The Departure from the Truth after its Recovery.

12th August, 1960
Mr. John A. Bulloch,
Beloved brother, … What you have heard about as being in circulation is a pamphlet written by Mr. J. Macdonald of Manchester with regard to the evil teaching of — on Philippians 3: 3* … A new edition of this pamphlet is being printed which will contain a reply by — I will send you a copy [unavailable].

[* This probably refers to “who worship by the Spirit of God”. Compare the note in the 1961 edition of J.N.D.'s translation.]

• “my father chastised you with whips but I will chastise you with scorpions”.

• Oppressive rules and regulations are a poor substitute for spiritual food by a ministry of Christ. The latest is, I hear, that brethren are not allowed to have a cup of coffee with business colleagues or acquaintances.

• This is not only quite unscriptural – 1 Cor. 5: 10; 10: 27 – and quite unlike our blessed Saviour, who was blamed by the Pharisees for eating with publicans and sinners

• but is contrary to the practice of Mr. Taylor Senior, who on his business trips to this country for Mills and Gibb frequently took a meal with linen manufacturers, one of whom on one occasion invited the Dean of Belfast to be present at lunch to meet him.

Mr. G. R. Cowell,* who took the lead in the London Conference in July 1959, was in July 1960 mercilessly cut off. From what I hear, this has shocked the brethren in America as well as in England.

[* See G. R. Cowell: His Trials and Stand and Unity as Presented in Paul's Epistles: London 1959]

It is true, as you say, that our little meeting here does not increase greatly in numbers. This does not trouble us, for

• “the end" (in view) "of what is enjoined is love out of a pure heart and a good conscience and unfeigned faith”, 1 Tim. 1: 5.

• The peace of mind and liberty of expression experienced amongst “two or three”, who
  • “cling to the faithful word according to the doctrine taught”

• by the apostle, is definitely preferable to being miserably unhappy in a large company which has, like R.C.'s, handed over their conscience to a spiritual director.

• The Scripture says – and how truly! –
  • “better is little with the fear of Jehovah than great store and disquietude therewith”, Prov. 15: 16,

  • “better is a dry morsel and quietness therewith than a house full of feasting with strife”, Prov. 17: 1.

• The “corner of a housetop” has great advantages.

Warm love in the Lord to you both, Your brother in Him, James McMullan.

19th October, 1960
Beloved brother,
… About the paper on 'The Distribution of the Holy Scriptures' it came to my ears that — had made certain remarks at Manchester in July about the footnote to 2 Cor. 2: 17 in the New Translation.

• There is an old proverb that “A little learning is a dangerous thing”; this is a striking example of that adage.

• — by misunderstanding J.N.D.'s footnote has assumed that the verse in question forbids retail trade in copies of the Scriptures or ministry.

• This has been taken up by the fanatical leaders amongst the brethren in Belfast and the result, it seems, is that all Stow Hill* publications will in future go direct to the several meetings rooms, and will no longer be distributed to the brethren – or marketed to the public – through the local Tract Depot.
  [* See The Stow Hill Depot – A Historical Sketch.]

• If the extremists like Mr. — have their way, Miss Simms will not even be allowed to sell Oxford bibles, or tracts, or anything of that kind; the Depot will be simply a pen and stationery shop.

• Miss Simms, who has been in the Depot all her life and has carried it on as a service to the Lord and His people, is of course deeply distressed.

Years ago I pointed out to Mr. [Fred] Ide, who was one of the trustees of Stow Hill, that they ought to allow the Tract Depots a discount as the expenses they bore were no different in principle from those charged as overheads by Stow Hill. He flatly refused.

• I then persuaded the Belfast brethren to have fellowship with Miss Simms in her service, and this they did quarterly. Now, I expect that will cease.

• But it may be God's way to limit the dissemination of wrong teaching. It reflects, however on those who swallow and submit to such rubbish.

Mr. A. P. C. Lawrence of Stornoway was “on the carpet” for having the Harris Tweed stamp on his cloth. He has submitted, we hear, and has been reprieved.

Mr. Macdonald has at last printed the paper on Phil. 3: 3 and —'s criticism of it with further comments by Mr. Macdonald. It is excellent, I think. I have asked him to send you copies.

Much love to you both from Ruth and myself,

Your brother in Christ, James McMullan.

31st October, 1960
Beloved brother,
… The edict about non-eating seems to have roused many. The legal and unspiritual elements are, of course, pressing it.

• We hear that — and — called on their sister Mrs. — recently to tell her they could no longer fraternize or take tea with her.

• Mrs. — was naturally most indignant, it appears, and phoned some of her brothers who told her it was all nonsense. When she informed — and — of this they said whoever told her must be dealt with!

It is very remarkable how, at the beginning, the spirit of Christianity tended to lighten burdens – read, for instance, Acts 15: 28, and James 1: 25.

• Compare also Peter's words in Acts 10: 28 with Acts 11: 3, and then look at the liberty Paul gave in 1 Cor. 10: 27.

Then there is the parrot-cry so often heard about “assembly conscience”.

• There is no such thing. J.N.D. said that conscience is always individual. How else could the scripture exhort every one who names the name of the Lord to depart from iniquity?

• It is true that in J.N.D.'s letters he refers to the conscience of the body, but it is manifest that by this he means that it is essential that each one in the company must be exercised or else clericalism will rear its head and things will be maintained by the authority of the few.

There is a report that in Belfast not long since there was an assembly meeting at which a number, including Mrs. —, had to get up and express contrition for some misdemeanour.

• What occasioned it, my informant was not very clear – it had something to do with a Mr. Steele, formerly of Egypt but now resident in Portadown, who was practising the diagnosis of ailments with a pendulum and Abram's box [?].

• This is the first time I have heard of sisters taking part audibly in the assembly – apart from singing.

It is all very sad. It is comforting to know that

• “Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever”.

Much love to you and your household. Your brother in Christ, J. McMullan.

29th November 1960
Dear John and Belle,
It has been a great cheer to us to hear of your exercises during the past months and we remember you constantly in our prayers.

• We know what it is to be quite alone in our exercises, and the experience of being apart from the accustomed company and the round of meetings is a very painful one. It is a good thing to have this test, we believe.

• My husband is fond of quoting Peter's words:
  • “Lord, if it be Thou, bid me to come unto Thee on the water”;

• he says what so many people are waiting for is another boat or some boat-builders; the real test of faith is being prepared to be alone if necessary. Of course that is not normal Christianity but it is salutary Christian experience.

This is a transitionary period and we have to be prepared for many rather painful and uncomfortable moments; also for times of loneliness such as some of us never anticipated.

• For those accustomed to exercise hospitality the silent house, the silent telephone, the sense of being forgotten is perhaps the only way we can learn to understand in our tiny measure what the Lord passed through when He said:
  • “I am forgotten in their heart as a dead man”, [Psa. 31: 12] or “as a dead man out of mind”.

… It was a joy to us to find during our visit to London earlier this month that Mr. [H. D.] Thomas had at last broken his links with what he now calls “an evil system”. He kept hoping for recovery and indeed his slowness to move had quite an influence on others.

• Mr. Arthur [G.] Brown* also seems to have abandoned the idea of recovery which we feel had a subconscious influence on him, partly through his brothers.
  [* See The Departure from the Truth after its Recovery.]

We spent an evening with Mr. Thomas and heard many interesting things, some painful and some encouraging. We were distressed to hear of the exposure of a number of leading brothers in Australia.

• I never thought that those who have the Spirit could be given up to vile lusts; it is really terrifying. Mr. [A. J.] Gardiner has been there and we wonder if these happenings will exercise him; he seems to have been blinded.

On the encouraging side was an account of the brethren at Horley who invited Mr. — down to help them as to the teaching on “eating”.

• He came and suggested a quite innocuous subject; then near the end a younger brother, Peter Mytton – son of the late Sydney Mytton of Groomsport and grandson of old Mr. Lambert of Eastbourne – protested that nothing had been said about the subject on which they had requested help.

• In spite of Mr. —'s attempts to evade the issue, Peter held him to it and battled for half an hour while Mr. — got more and more angry and shouted.

• Some 3 or 4 others came to Peter's aid and one of them had to tell Mr. — that he had only asked a simple question and was not deaf.

• Among other things, Mr. — said that brethren did not form part of Christendom* and Peter said he had never heard such an outrageous statement in his life!
  [* An egregious error! GAR.]

• Now we hear that — has demanded that they should apologize to Mr. —, but as far as we know from Mr. Thomas and the Browns – with whom we spent a night – most of the meeting at Horley was in sympathy with what Peter said.

When speaking to Peter on the telephone, just before leaving for Belfast, he said it wasn't that they did not believe in separation; they did – but this teaching was so unscriptural that they could not accept it.

• They are waiting for others to make the next move and we did not feel like telling them they were wrong to delay. Perhaps their exercises need to mature.

Mr. Macdonald telephoned last Saturday to say that there were 26 “out” in Eastbourne, 16 in Retford – in Nottinghamshire – another 16 or so in Stafford and the 24 or 26 in Amersham of whom you have heard, I think.

• Tonight we heard there are about 48 out in Dorking and in the Isle of Wight almost all in two meetings – Ryde and Ventnor – seem to be “out”, so Mr. Macdonald said. There are some in Purley also,
  • and doctors all over the country are objecting to this absurd prohibition on the use of letters indicating professional qualifications.

• Your name on a list with anyone not “in fellowship” is regarded as rendering you unclean. It sounds almost like mania, doesn't it?

• There is a statement of J.N.D.'s which seems very applicable: “The more evil the conscience the more it attaches itself to forms”.

• He was writing of the great Roman system but really it comes down to individuals also, doesn't it? I felt searched by it when I read it first. It really is exemplified in what is coming upon the brethren with whom we once walked although the “forms” have been multiplying for years now.

A Wellesley Hall brother with whom we do business tells us that the atmosphere in the meetings is very tense at present.

• Mr. — is said to show an appalling spirit; no ministry is of value unless it is on the ‘current’ line; the rule that ‘eating equals fellowship’ is to be enforced and – — is regarded as the last word in everything; that is by those who take the lead.

• Underneath is a very critical state and this brother is one of a number who do not agree with the teaching and are waiting to be probed. He says: “It is only beginning!” whatever that means.

A lot of people are concerned about the closing down of the Tract Depot – by command of — – some misapprehension about ‘making a trade of the word of God’ or ‘corrupting the word of God’ being the same as selling retail.

• Miss Simms who has been 40 years in the Depot is terribly upset. Her brother Charlie Simms voiced her exercises in a meeting on the subject and asked what they were to say to the customers who questioned them about the change. He wanted to know where these ideas came from; indeed he said they ‘seemed to come out of the blue’!

• He had to apologize and I believe he had a narrow escape! I think this has shaken the whole connection considerably; as you know they are related to a lot of families in Ulster and have links with England also.

There is a very critical state also at Holywood – where —, now ‘restored’, is a fanatical supporter of the ministry.

• I heard today that there was great disagreement or protest at a meeting there last week and that a lot of brethren walked out. This will have to be confirmed

• but I remember seeing —'s wife, —, in town last Friday, talking to a sister, and she looked awfully upset, as I mentioned when I came home. Her younger girl, —, standing beside her, looked white-faced and scared. Poor child! I wonder if she isn't breaking bread and has to eat in the kitchen!

• What a travesty of Christianity all this is! How different from the leading of the Good Shepherd, who tenderly gathers the lambs in His arms, carries them in His bosom and gently leads those that are with young. May the Lord deliver many more from the house of bondage.

I don't know if my husband mentioned that we have a brother and his wife, their married daughter and three children, coming to our little gathering. They seem genuinely exercised, the elder ones I mean.

• The children are 13, 10 and 8 years old, the eldest, a girl, was breaking bread in the Ormeau Road meeting which her mother who was also “in fellowship” has just left.

We remember you constantly in our prayers and are always glad to hear from you.

Have you seen an excellent paper by Mr. Macdonald – I think it is called ‘Letter to a brother’?

With love in the Lord Jesus to you both. Yours in Him. Ruth V. McMullan.

28th December 1960
My dear John,
We are glad to get your letters for we are thus able as sharing in your trials and exercises to bear you all up in prayer.

• I can understand your dear wife's horror of rules and regulations, and the fear of return to the system of bondage we have got free of, in the Lord's mercy. Rules and regulations have been the bane of brethren for many years past.

• I regard the radio as just a machine, which like a typewriter or a dictaphone, can have its uses. I cannot see that the mere possession of it disqualifies any one from Christian fellowship.

• There must be many in the remoter parts of North America who seldom see a newspaper and get the news by radio. Children, too, are taught by its means, I believe.

• — walked into my office one day with a Daily Express sticking out of his pocket. Is getting the news by radio any worse?

• I do not have one myself because I fear it would become a snare, not because of a brethren's rule against it.

• Christianity is a system of liberty. The principle is thus stated by the apostle in 1 Cor. 10: 23 –
  • “All things are lawful, but all are not profitable; all things are lawful, but all do not edify”.

• So as having a weakness for good music, I avoid it because its appeal is always to the senses – never to the conscience. I was shocked once to discover that some of the great composers of classical music, so-called, were deplorably immoral men.

In writing to my brother in Sydney the other day I quoted the following from J.N.D.'s Synopsis on 2 Tim. 1 –

• “We must distinguish between the relationships in which man stood as child of Adam and child of God. The law is the perfect expression of the requirements of the former, the rule of life to him; it is found to be death. Once we are sons of God, the life of the Son of God as man down here becomes our rule of life”.

• So Paul says in 1 Cor. 11: 1 – “Be my imitators, even as I also am of Christ”.

• This puts an end to rules and regulations and instead it becomes our concern to walk even as he walked. 1 John 2: 6.

• What a pleasure and triumph for God to have men and women on earth at the present time who so appreciate His beloved Son that they want to be like Him! This is true Christianity.

A man well on in life and simple in understanding was received in Ormeau Road meeting a few years ago.

• His wife, not in fellowship, took ill and was removed to hospital. There she derived comfort from the hymns that came over the radio.

• When she came home, with an inoperable cancer, and only a short time to live, he got her a radio so that she might continue to hear the hymns.

• In his simplicity he mentioned what he had done to —. The latter demanded its instant removal. The old man refused, because his wife had only a few weeks to live. He was put out! That kind of thing only brings Christianity into reproach.

My brother in Sydney is very troubled. His younger girl has turned to the Lord and wants to break bread, so, to comply with some rule* which I cannot understand, she has ceased to sit by her mother and now sits behind.

[* At that time children over 12, not yet breaking bread, were required to sit behind and they were not allowed to eat at the family table. Some years later all that evaporated when babes in their mother's arms were allowed and encouraged to take the bread and drink the cup, being thus de facto in fellowship.]

• You would scarcely credit that, because she is sitting behind, many of the legalists will not now invite her to their houses – she is ‘outside’! What ignorance of God and His grace.

I hear that Mr. — was at the Dublin Christmas* meetings. Perhaps he has been sent over to try to avert complete disintegration.

[* References to Christmas and Easter are to meetings held at those times of year only. Such heathen festivals are not celebrated by intelligent brethren – and it is better not to use such terms.]

• Things are steadily crumbling in England. Mr. [H. F.] Redfearn's withdrawal will be a great blow for he is a brother of weight and influence; a very godly, sober man.

Thank you for the suggestion in yours of Dec. 21, which I mentioned to the brethren. They feel, however, that the principle to be observed is in Jer. 15: 19.

• To cease breaking bread would snap our links with those elsewhere – in Great Britain, Germany and Switzerland – with whom we have been walking happily for the past six years.

I should be interested to see the statement you say you got from C. W. Cooper. I have not heard the grounds on which he left.

You know, I expect, that Miss Simms and her sisters have withdrawn, and she is going to continue with her sale of Bibles, etc.

Much love to you both, and the children.
Your brother in Him, James McMullan.

13th January, 1961
Dear John and Belle,
… Jimmy was in London last week and has been very busy since his return … Miss Adeline Wilkinson – whom you probably know – is the only person who has left in Wellesley Hall.

• Jimmy heard in London that there were 17 ‘out’ in Belfast but we have heard only of 6-7, counting C. W. Cooper – the three Simms sisters, Mrs. Carson and Maurice Harris and his wife – who is a daughter of the present Mrs. Andy Angus – all of Knock meeting.

Maurice Harris telephoned Jimmy yesterday to ask for a chat and as Jimmy had to go up to Stormont today they met then. We gather that Maurice had been asked by the others to find out how Jimmy stood regarding those who ‘felt free’ to address the Holy Spirit.

• The conversation was brotherly but I don't think that those now coming out have any sense of having done wrong in the attitude they have maintained for the last six years. However this is a period of transition and we must wait to see further evidence of God's work.

When in London Jimmy spent an evening with Mr. Thomas, had lunch with Peter Mytton and spent an evening with the [H. F.] Redfearns at Croydon; all very encouraging.

• We used to know the Redfearns well; they have stayed with us and we with them but, of course, we were regarded as dead for the last six years.

• We had heard that Mr. Redfearn had said he would not be free to break bread with anyone who did not address the Spirit but, as Peter Mytton had told Jimmy that Mr. Redfearn was a converted man, Jimmy risked ringing him and was warmly invited to his house.

• They had a very free and happy time with nothing controversial – although Mr. Redfearn was well aware why Jimmy left in 1954.

Mr. Alan Oliver, who we were told had withdrawn and then recanted under family persuasion, regretted his second move after one day and withdrew finally with his son Keith. There are about 80 out at Croydon, I understand.

Did you hear that there are 27 out at Worthing? It is a pity that Mr. T. W. Carron did not wait. He made friends with a librarian who was an O.B. brother and went along to their reading ‘to seek to help them’.

• He was a lonely widower and at these meetings he became acquainted with a very nice sister of suitable age, to whom he became engaged not long after his wife's death – long enough not to be unseemly – like some we know.

• Naturally he regarded it as ‘providential’ – it's just a pity he could not have maintained his principles; he might have had the lady with him now and been a help to the 27 now liberated.

• He found the O.B. meeting he attends in Worthing was one of those ‘nice’ O.B. meetings; there is a second meeting of O.B.'s in Worthing which he did not seem to associate with at all.

• He wrote us once that he did not feel in any way responsible for what was done by O.B. meetings in Belfast or elsewhere. When he first attended their meeting in Worthing he wrote to us saying he had no intention of joining them!

• His little booklets are very good and we are sorry he has gone off on this side-track, for the principle of independence has marked O.B.'s for a long time.

When we lived in Donaghadee there was a very separate little O.B. meeting in Ballyhay, very godly and exclusive people.

• In Bangor there were two O.B. meetings, Holborn Hall and Central Victoria Hall, which were not on speaking terms; yet persons from both those meetings could go up to Victoria Hall in Belfast and break bread there – and so could those from Ballyhay. O.B.'s can see nothing wrong in that.

• The people who have a fruit-shop below our meeting room in great Victoria Street go to Apsley Street Room and would not go to Victoria Hall, of which they speak with strong disapproval, yet people with letters of commendation from an O.B. meeting can go to either or both.

• We told Mr. Carron this and more but he disclaimed responsibility. He may yet have to face responsibility locally and we pray that he may get his eyes opened.

You mention the Swiss brethren. We met them first in 1948 and were delighted to find them very much alive spiritually.

• At that time they were exercised by the uniformity of the ‘ministry’ when English brothers visited them. There was a run of meetings on ‘the token’ and so forth, according to what J.T. was ministering, which wearied the brethren there, and when the ministry as to addressing the Spirit came out most of them were distressed.

• Mr. [Hans] Rellstab, a very gifted brother in Zurich, thought – as I did at first – that he must be wrong if brothers like Mr. Gardiner and others could ‘see’ it and he could not!

• Then Mr. Myles' ministry on ‘the man of God’ in 1954 upset Mr. Rellstab so much that he wrote to Mr. Myles, but his wife begged him to postpone sending the letter. When my husband sent his statement to Mr. Rellstab he told us later that it just echoed his own thoughts.

• Then in the autumn of that year the meetings over Mr. Arthur [G.] Brown, and the fact that Mr. Thomas was required to withdraw his word as of the devil [!?], was too much for the Zurich brethren. Some of them were present – although the brethren at Park Street did not know it – at a care meeting over H.D.T., and they gave themselves away with a vengeance.

• At a later meeting when the Swiss brethren were there in the front everybody was on their best behaviour, but it was too late. Besides, the Swiss brethren were concerned with what was said, apart from the manner of saying it.

The German brethren also, particularly in Mettman, stood up to Mr. Myles and gave no quarter to unscriptural teaching, however plausible.

• Some of the older ones had been well-grounded in J.N.D. and F.E.R., and objected to a reversal of their teaching, and of J.T.'s former teaching also.

When the Swiss brethren broke with London – after visits by Mr. Myles and P. Lyon to try to really browbeat them into submission – they sent letters conveying their exercises all over Switzerland and Germany, and a great many meetings agreed with them. They have been a great comfort during these lonely years.

We can well understand how you feel in your loneliness, but you will prove the Lord's support in a way you never would learn in a crowd. It may not be for long – see “a little while” in 1 Peter 5: 10. Much love to you both. We think of you constantly.

Yours affectionately in our Lord Jesus. Ruth V. McMullan.

22nd February, 1961
Dear John and Belle,
… On Friday the 3rd inst Rob Mathison rang up to ask if he might call that evening. He and Jimmy had a brotherly conversation for about 3 hours.

• I think he indicated that there are some who think only the last phase of ‘the teaching’ needs to be reviewed, while others think they ought to go back about 10 or more years. This applies to those in England also.

• He said he had been re-reading all the papers we and others had circulated in 1954-55, including the Zurich letters,* and found himself in complete agreement with what was said by those who left – or were put out – then.
  [* The Zurich Letters – 1955 are in 'The Departure from the Truth after its Recovery – Part Two', which is not posted on 'My Brethren'.]

• The only difference between us, he said, was that we had left six years earlier. Those six years have left their mark nevertheless, because he did not want me to mention that he had telephoned!

• We are still under a cloud with some of those who have left recently with whom this brother meets. He thinks that they are getting help but it will take time; others have said the same.

When Jimmy last saw Mr. Thomas in London he referred to this time as a period of adjustment, or words to that effect.

• That is our own impression and that is why I mentioned the present “transitional” stage; you asked about this in the last letter we had from you.

• The prop of the system on which so many of us depended – more or less – has been removed and the undignified but salutary experience of learning to walk by ourselves – I hope! – is the next stage.

• I can't say I have any definite ideas about the future but, having taken the step in faith nearly seven years ago and seeing confirmation for it, we feel the need of waiting patiently for God to work, while we earnestly pray that something will come out of all this upheaval which will be for His pleasure.

• Abraham went out not knowing whither he went – and it says “Abraham was alone when I called him”.

• This period is the trial of our faith; the Lord knows we want to do what is right and that is what we have had to separate from evil; now we are at the ‘waiting patiently’ stage but also, I trust, on the alert for any indication from Him.

Mr. [C. L.] Nunnerley has sent some of us a collection of contributions – some very helpful pieces in it … One brother, Dr. Jewalls, makes a reference to looking to the Holy Spirit for help; I suppose we must bear with this result of erroneous teaching.

• What I pray for is that, as the brethren who have come out are helped, these ‘extra-scriptural’ habits – as Mr. Desai terms them – will die away. My sister-in-law in Oakland said that the brethren there did not pray to the Spirit much; in fact it was only after a visit from some ‘modernist’ that there was a short spate of it, and then it died down again.

• But perhaps I'm wrong and it would be better for us to be instructed in the truth; perhaps it's just cowardice on my part and a wish to avoid conflict. I don't want to be wilful about it either way.

• She says that a number have withdrawn in Melbourne and she herself is full of exercises and apologises for what she says – but had to relieve herself to someone she could trust. It will be interesting to hear her reaction to what Mr. Angus will have to tell her!

• We were told he was just jocular and that those who were withdrawn from for eating with some one not ‘in fellowship’ may be forgiven but they must acknowledge that the teaching is right.

• A young married brother in Dublin had supper with — and told him he did not agree with his ministry and — said they would not withdraw from him for that. The brother who told me said he thought it meant that they would bear with the outspoken young man for a time, but he did not think it would be overlooked.

• We also heard that — was jocular there and took the line that those who had left should not be taken too seriously; they really were ‘basically right’ – not having refused earlier ministry, we presume – and might return. He does not seem to realize the damage he has done, but no doubt what he imbibes gives him a sense of well-being.
  • “It is as sport to a fool to do mischief …”

• Mr. Mauchan was a bit to quick to pounce on something Phil wrote which really was tentative – ‘we can't [go] on with that’ – otherwise they might have kept Phil and Edna.

Our love in the Lord Jesus to you both. Affectionately, Ruth V. McMullan.

15th March, 1961
My dear John,
… We were glad to hear of your dear mother's withdrawal. It was Alec who told me about it and I would judge he is not likely to continue indefinitely ‘in fellowship’ himself.

Last night we went over to the Coopers about 7:30 and left at midnight! We had a very happy time with them and, of course, had much ground to cover. We hope to see your mother soon.

Next Saturday there is to be a meeting of the ‘outs’ at Chelmsford, Essex, and I think C.W.C. hopes to be there. H.D.T. told me it was arranged after he had accepted an invitation to be present at the marriage in Pinner of Ian Mathison and Jane Bradwick. I understand Mr. [J.] Gordon Mathison will be there, as he must be in England.

Mr. Thomas tells me he has promised to be at the Easter fellowship meetings in Newcastle, Co. Down. I should have liked to be there but Mr. C. Kernahan and I have arranged to go to Zurich.

Two Swiss brothers – Rellstab and Ruegg – and a German brother from Mettman – Fritsch – are visiting London next week-end to make contact with the brethren there who have followed in our footsteps in leaving the Taylorites. Your prayers that the Lord will overrule and grant help in the conversations would be much valued. Mr. Macdonald of Manchester is going down to be present.

Thank you for sending Mr. Carron's leaflet – A voice from the past [unavailable]. As a matter of fact it was I who lent him the book from which he quotes, when we thought he was going to be a great help to us. But, alas, he fell in with a Delilah who led him into the ‘Open’ system.

• The sentiments in the leaflet are very beautiful but, unhappily, the hopes and aspirations of the writers failed to recognize the warning voice of Paul in Acts 20: 29-32.

• Generation after generation of saints have suffered from “grievous wolves” and “men speaking perverted things” and so generation after generation have had to pass through the painful and bewildering experience of departing from iniquity. God no doubt has allowed this, for our learning and establishment in the truth.

Much love to you all. We pray for your encouragement.
Your brother in Christ, J. McMullan.

17th April, 1961
Dear John and Belle,
The copies of Mr. Cooper's and Miss Frost's letters* came while James was in Switzerland at Easter. Thank you very much for them …

[* SeeThe Parting of the Ways.]

• — was there not long ago and in a meeting at Wermelskirchen – where Herr [A.] Wellershaus used to live – gave orders that a supporter of his, who had been withdrawn from – for good reasons – should be restored.

• Orders like these have been meekly acquiesced in, frequently, by English and other meetings, so it must have been a new experience for Jim when the whole meeting ‘came out’!

An English brother called —, a lawyer or solicitor, who went to Zurich with A. E. Myles in 1954 – and left a vivid recollection of his behaviour as an armour-bearer – is now ‘out’ himself, and was at the recent meetings in Zurich.

• His object in coming, he said, was to express his regret for the part he had taken in 1954. He was questioned pretty closely by some of the Swiss brothers, who have good memories. He made his apology publicly, I suppose according to his measure; Mr. Kernahan and James didn't think much of it but at least he made a start on the way back!

• He has come out because of the recent ministry on ‘eating’ and associations but had no difficulties about the earlier teaching; in fact he stated at Mr. Rellstab's* house that he thought it was right.
  [* Hans Rellstab wrote “O Holy Spirit, thanks is due to Thee”, No. 519 in the 1993 Supplement. It was No. 447 in the 1951 Hymn Book, which also included another hymn of his, No. 345.]

• James was staying there and Mr. Kernahan was there at the time, so to Mr. —'s surprise he found himself in a minority of one, the others being, as you know, well-versed in the Scriptures bearing on the subject. Whether it made any lasting impression remains to be seen.

We were delighted to hear that there are now 8 more ‘out’ in Toronto – is that number correct? We hope they will be a support and encouragement to you. It is a difficult time and many of those who are leaving are not “clinging to the faithful word according to the doctrine taught” by the apostles but to the teachings of men.

There is some evidence that the Lord is working. James told you of the visits I had from Mr. Cooper and Mr. McGimpsey separately – that they had come to it that the teaching as to addressing the Spirit etc. should not have been made a test of fellowship, and they asked my forgiveness for their part in what happened in 1954.

• They were very brotherly, and since we have been at the Cooper's house and they have been here – also John McGimpsey and his family.

We have heard from a few other brethren since but the majority have maintained the distance which has existed for 7 years.

• Two brothers – John McGimpsey was one, you wouldn't know the other – came separately last Saturday week to see James and tell him that they were going to break bread. They were afraid that those who had come out would be scattered if they did not break bread.

• James listened carefully and then said that their action virtually condemned those who since 1954 had stood apart seeking to ‘continue steadfastly in the teaching and fellowship of the apostles and in breaking of bread and prayers’ in their measure; what were we doing that was wrong by that standard?

• They had no answer, as they admitted. I don't know if Mr. Cooper would have come but he was laid up over Easter – got out of bed to go to the meetings at Newcastle [Co. Down] where Mr. Thomas was staying and had to return to bed.

There are still a good number who have not been able to judge the teaching as to the Spirit, and they are hostile and suspicious towards those who took a stand against making it a test of fellowship.

• It seems scarcely consistent that those brothers who told me they agreed with this should now break bread with others who are making it a test.

• Those whom we have been in touch with or who have been in touch with us are anxious to maintain contact and we can pray that the Lord will continue to work.

• There were meetings with Mr. Thomas at Donaghadee, Holywood, Bangor and Belfast, and on the whole he was encouraged. He and his daughter had lunch here with us on their way to the airport last Tuesday, and he said that the need of the moment was patience.

Those who took a stand in 1954 evidently are still under reproach, and this we must accept.

• I must admit that, having been using the old [1932] hymn-book since 1954, the latest – 1951 – book jars on me very much when I look through it again; it seems to have so many unscriptural ideas in it – while there are also many beautiful hymns.

• I think Mr. Macdonald is not happy about that hymn-book. That reminds me – he was to be here last week and was to spend a night here and one at the Cooper's but had to put it off for a couple of weeks as he did not feel too well. His visit may help.

We hear that Mr. Mathison is in Holywood but have not heard anything more of or from him. I was speaking to Mrs. Cooper today and she said they had not heard from him yet. I hope he is well.

I expect that you have heard that there are a number of brethren ‘out’ in Cirencester and also in Airdrie, near Glasgow. The exercises in Scotland have been slower in coming to light; it will be interesting to see how the Lord is working there. We hear there are a number ‘out’ in Edinburgh.

There are still many under the influence of the erroneous teaching who think it is all right to do something in the service of God which is ‘not forbidden’, and who do not know that is one of the Romanists' favourite arguments. It opens the door to a host of unscriptural things.

• They also seem to be held by the fact that the Holy Spirit is God and therefore He should be worshipped, and do not see that we have only the Scriptures to instruct us as to how God is to be worshipped and that we should fear to go beyond what is written.

• Who are we to add to the apostles' teaching? Much patience indeed is needed.

With love in our Lord Jesus from us both.
Affectionately, Ruth V. McMullan.

3rd May, 1961
My dear John,
… The position here in Belfast is that those who seceded last December took a room on the Ormeau Road. Our relations with them have been very happy and brotherly.

We invited C.W.C. and others to come along and help us! They did not come!

• However almost a month ago – on April 8 – John McGimpsey and another brother called Harris called to tell me that they proposed to break bread in the Ormeau Room next day.

• They said they recognized there was not much between us, and hoped that soon we would all be together, but some of their number were very desirous of maintaining their liberty to address the Holy Spirit and continue using the 1951 Hymn Book – we went back to the 1932 book. and they felt they might feel hampered if they joined up with us.

• We had made it clear, of course, that we would not make the matter a test of fellowship, while we thought it a misapprehension.

I said that we in Great Victoria Street had in a simple way been seeking to persevere in the teaching and fellowship of the apostles for the past six years.

• The fact that they were now going to break bread apart from us seemed to imply that they judged we had come short in some way – for I assumed they had the same objective.

• I asked them, for my own help and the help of others with whom I broke bread, to tell me in what respect they considered we had not been governed by the apostles' teaching. After an embarrassing pause they said they had no answer to that! We had supper together and parted on affectionate terms.

Some think the others in Belfast were a little precipitate in starting to break bread separately. But I feel sure help will come in.

Mr. Thomas and his daughters spent about a fortnight in Ireland over Easter and had lunch with us here on 11th April. Ruth then drove them to the airport.

Yes, A.E.M. has withdrawn from the Taylorites, and in his letter to them spoke with sorrow of the iniquity of the system he had helped to build up.

• His reason for leaving is not altogether creditable to him. His son Ronnie married the daughter of a brother called Moss who had a precision engineering works that flourished during the war. After Mr. Moss's death it has been in the hands of four or five brothers as directors and shareholders, including Mr. Murchie of Edinburgh and Mr. Myles.

• For some reason which I can't follow, — told them to sell up. This they declined to do, so Murchie was put out in Edinburgh and A.E.M. withdrew.

When Mr. Gardiner was in Australia some months ago, the fanatical young men who follow — considered he was not forceful enough in pressing ‘current ministry’, so while he was on his way home by boat —, —'s son-in-law, and — of Sydney wrote to London urging the brethren there to take up this matter with A.J.G

• So poor Mr. Gardiner recently faced an assembly meeting in Park Street to make confession and ask forgiveness for not being sufficiently emphatic in support of the non-eating teaching, etc. How are the mighty fallen! We hear that his mental powers are failing.

Mr. Charles Kernahan and I were at the Easter meetings in Zurich. We were the only visitors there from the British Isles. I think H.D.T., and perhaps James Macdonald, will be there later.

• While we were in Zurich a solicitor brother called — arrived in the city. He lives in Reigate, Surrey, where he recently withdrew. He came to Zurich to ask the brethren's forgiveness for his conduct six years before when he came with A.E.M. and others to bludgeon them into submission.

When staying in Mr. Rellstab's house in Zurich I had first hand news of a stir amongst the German meetings. A brother in Weidenau phoned to say he and his family had withdrawn. Many more since.

Affectionately your brother, J. McMullan.

20th March, 1962
My dear John,
Thank you very much for the various letters and papers which you have sent me – all of great interest.

The latest dogma, obliging those who are in fellowship with — to leave husband or wife who is not, appears to be coming into operation in England.

• We heard recently of a home in Manchester which has been broken up by this monstrous teaching.

• The wife in this instance came into fellowship after marriage. The husband did not do so himself but raised no objection, and allowed his wife to take the children with her to the meetings.

• Not long ago he arrived home to find a note telling him his wife had left him taking the children with her.

• This wicked doctrine fails to recognize the distinction clearly made in Scripture between natural relationships and spiritual. Natural links must be honoured as ordained of God, and especially the marriage bond. Notice in Malachi 2: 13-16 how God in referring to this says, “I hate putting away”.

• It is solemn and significant that the need for this rebuke arose at the end of the old dispensation, following the recovery through Ezra and Nehemiah.

• The Lord Himself reaffirms the truth in Matt. 19: 3-9. See also Matt. 15: 1-9 as regards parents and children.

Now it is important to notice in 1 Cor. 7 that verses 10-11 are of general application:

• “But to the married I enjoin, not I, but the Lord, Let not wife be separated from husband … and let not husband leave wife”.

• This applies where both are believers, as the earlier verses in the chapter show. The apostle then gives further directions in regard of the case where one partner is not a believer.

• Some apparently thought – possibly through reading Ezra 10: 3 – that that warranted a separation. 26
  • [“And now let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandments of our God; and let it be done according to the law”, Ezra 10: 3.]

• But the apostle says, No! Christianity is different! In it, in contrast with Judaism,
  • “the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the brother; since otherwise indeed your children are unclean, but now they are holy”
    [1 Cor. 7: 14].

• The whole tenor of this Scripture indicates that God would have us to hold on to the partners and to the children, even if they are not in accord with the truth, because faith would count on His grace affecting them, and if they go away it must be their own doing – not the result of pressure or exclusion.

• This so-called ‘ministry’ misrepresents the blessed God and the present dispensation, and is giving occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme.

The wife of my brother Edward in Sydney, and his two girls, are now being pressed to leave him. He would be thankful for your prayers, that this may be used to effect their deliverance also.

With warm love in Christ to you all from us both.
Affectionately your brother, James McMullan.

3rd, April, 1962
My dear John,
Thank you for yours … I am sure it would be a cheer to him to get a few lines from you.* The majority in Sydney are fanatical adherents of — and very few have separated.

[* This refers to James McMullan’s brother Edward.]

Edward has two sons and two daughters. His wife is Australian. Though troubled for years about the teaching that was being promulgated he was not forced out until last June.

• The elder son left some time before, being unable to stomach the ministry any longer. The younger son never broke bread. My brother complied with the brethren’s insistence that these two should eat in the home by themselves.

• But when he was further pressed to put them out of the house altogether he flatly refused and withdrew.

Now his wife and two daughters, who are still in fellowship, are being urged to depart from iniquity by leaving the home!

I expect the brother you mention who in Toronto referred, at a meeting with —, to the fact that a priest in the old economy could make himself unclean in connection with near relatives, was alluding to Leviticus 22: 1-2 –

• “Speak unto the priests … and say unto them, There shall none make himself unclean for a dead person among his peoples, except for his immediate relation, who is near unto him – for his mother, and for his father, and for his son, and for his daughter …”

It is striking that Deut. 12 makes a difference also, as regards eating, between

• “the place which Jehovah will choose” – for us the assembly –

• and “all thy gates” – referring to the individual or household spheres.

• Within the latter there was greater liberty, and both “the unclean and the clean” could eat of what was there provided.

We hear —— has been advocating fasts, that is, literal abstention from food

• “Is such the fast that I have chosen, a day for a man to afflict his soul, – that he should bow down his head as a bulrush, and spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Wilt thou call this a fast, and a day acceptable to Jehovah? Is not this the fast which I have chosen: to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, and to send forth free the crushed, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring to thy house the needy wanderers; when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the dawn …”, Isaiah 58: 5-8.
• In view of such words it is sad to hear that Mr. Eric Greeves has just put his daughter Annabel out of the house because she left the Taylorites. May the Lord open his eyes.

Love to all from us both. Yours in the Lord, James McMullan.

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CHARLES  W.  COOPER
Charlie Cooper of Belfast is the author of 283, 494 and 530 in the 1973/93 Hymn Book. Some of his poems are in The Alpha and The Omega and other poems, No. 5 in The Christian Poetry Series. See his letter of withdrawal in The Parting of the Ways.

12th December 1960
Mr. John Bulloch,
Beloved Brother,
… Conditions amongst the Brethren had given me much concern for a long while, but I never had the slightest thought of leaving until quite recently.

• Some of the matters which hastened my exit* were, the re-arranging of chairs to be in accord with Nostrand Avenue, the basket instead of the box, the transparent** cup, the reading of all letters of commendation in the city meeting before brethren could go away anywhere. No scripture was ever brought forward to support any one of these items, yet to object was the quick way out of fellowship.
  [* See F. G. Holding's letter in The Parting of the Ways. My comments there – in a footnote – on such matters as those to which C.W.C. refers, are applicable here as well.]

  [** He may mean the replacement of a transparent – glass – ‘cup’ by a silver cup, which was done at some point.]

• There is not much in these things, taken by themselves, but when they have not the support of a scripture then they lack real authority but they are pushed and pressed by those who speak of the ‘authority of current ministry’. To this I strongly object.

On the other hand the scriptures, the sure resource of the believer, have been quite altered in their meaning.

• 1 Cor. 5 is now said to include everyone outside the fellowship, so that we cannot mix nor eat with those not breaking bread.

• The actual matter of not eating does not affect me, but I cannot accept this false interpretation of the scriptures. Again, 1 Cor. 10: 27 is altered to support this ‘new light’ but
  • “the scripture cannot be broken”.

In Bangor two brothers who openly expressed some difficulty about present teaching were withdrawn from in exactly 2 weeks. I felt I could not stay any longer so withdrew according to 2 Timothy 2.

The position here is as follows:

• Annalong – 11 out, including Dorothy and her father, but Miss Purdy and Hugh Kearney held the hall; Bangor – 12 out; Holywood – 21 out, only Harold Lyons and family remain in the Room;.

• Newcastle – 9 out, S. Brien and family left ‘in’; Carrickfergus – 3 out, John McGimpsey; Lisburn – 5 out; Belfast – 5 out; Donaghadee – 10 out; Portadown – 9 out.

  Many others in the city think just as I do but they are afraid to come out to walk on the waters. It is much easier to stay in the Brethren's Boat.

  • All those who are ‘ou ’ are keeping in touch, and there are meetings for prayer and readings in some of our houses. The cheer and comfort has been wonderful. Thank you for writing.

Warm love in Christ, Charles Cooper.

10th, January 1961
Beloved Brother,
… As you can understand I am rather pressed these days, and have been receiving many letters – some condemning, others commending.

• — has sent out a circular about me I believe, warning people about the rascal I am.

… I trust you will keep in touch with those ‘out’ in Los Angeles so that they may not be dispersed and lost. You mention the name of a Doctor at Cincinnati who has written a booklet Why I left Exclusive Brethren. Please do all you can to get me a copy, or some copies.

Mr. — was in Dublin for Christmas. I understand he was very mild (presumably acting on instructions) and some of the more extreme elements were disappointed.

• Others who were on the point of withdrawing changed their minds, believing that things were not so bad. The number of those who have withdrawn in Ireland is now about 106; this includes Geo. Brennan and his wife at Dundalk, and Harold Simms and his wife at Dublin. Two mores sisters have come out in Belfast.

• There is a very precious flow of love amongst us now. At our little meetings in the house of our brother Maurice Harris at Knock, we look forward to seeing one another, and although the number of brothers is small we are constantly encouraged together.

• We assemble on Lord's Day at 10:30, then on Monday and Wednesday. We have no preaching, but anyone can easily go to Bangor or Holywood where they do have a gospel meeting on Lord's Day evening at 6:30.

• At Newcastle they break bread now and those at Annalong go there for all meetings, which gives them 20 breaking bread.

• At Portadown there are 10 ‘out’ and they have secured quite a good room in a better position than the old room. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Simms and their son come in to us from their place outside Lisburn, while John McGimpsey, his wife and son, come in from Carrickfergus. Mr. and Mrs. Bell who are ‘out’ in Lisburn would normally be with us, but have not managed just yet.

At Donaghadee, the 10 there meet on Lord's Day morning and also through the week. I think there are now about 16 ‘out’ at Bangor and about 25 at Holywood.

• … * Thank you for mentioning the names of those with whom you meet; I know each one and we send them our united love.
  [* The section omitted here is in From Freedom to Failure.]

Here in Belfast we have thought we should arrange an opportunity for all in the area to come together. So next Saturday, 14th inst, we hope to have such a gathering.

• We may have prayer followed by tea and a reading, or we may have the usual reading, tea and address. Our main thought is to promote mutual comfort and encouragement.

• … * We shall remember you all in our prayers, and shall value yours.
  [*The section omitted here is in From Freedom to Failure.]

With love in Christ.Your brother in Him, Charles W. Cooper.

11 June, 1961
Beloved Brother,
John McGimpsey showed me your letter of 6th inst from which I learn that the brethren in your city who have withdrawn from iniquity would be breaking bread together today.

• I am most thankful to know this, and I write to send my affectionate greetings to the few – that is eight souls – who compose the new gathering. Would that I could have been with you in body, as indeed I am in spirit.

We have had cheer from our gracious Lord in many ways and we are thankful for the way He has assembled, gathered and put us together. Micah 2: 12*.

[* “I will surely assemble, O Jacob, the whole of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as sheep of Bozrah, as a flock in the midst of their pasture: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men”, Micah 2: 12.]

• On the occasions of coming together for the Lord's Supper, there is an absence of ritual – some might think we were disorderly in the way we proceed, but what is very evident is ardent love for Christ. Consequently there is not an artificial liturgy but fervency.

Movements are still taking place all over. In Burnie – Tasmania – and also in Melbourne, brethren are breaking bread again, while in these islands about 74 places have resumed. Some of these of course are small but the Lord will come to two or three.

• F.E.R. said “There never were two or three people in the world that really wanted the presence of Christ that did not get it. If people claim it, I am not sure they always get it”.

• He also said “Any true position at the present time is essentially individual and anything outside of that is false”.

In Germany about 100 are out, and there are good numbers out in Norway and Sweden. Mr. Cowell is in Ireland for 10 days – we have had choice ministry from him.

• I heard from Robert Smith of Cranford that he hoped to visit Toronto later this month. Encouraging news too from Los Angeles, Vancouver and now San Francisco.

I am preaching in our Room this evening, so must close. The Meeting Room address is 169a Ormeau Road.

With our love in Christ Jesus to all the brethren.Charles W. Cooper.

28 June 1961
Beloved Brother,
I did appreciate your two interesting letters sent out as to the commencement of the breaking of bread. I rejoiced in the information as to Kingston, and shall write our brother [Paul Dornbusch] whose address you have given.

• Very disappointing is the news as to Dr. [John] Wyllie* [Sr.] – “The sons of Ephraim, armed bowmen, turned back in the day of battle”, Psalms 78: 9.
  [* Dr. Wyllie withdrew from the legal sect in July 1970.]

In reply to your enquiry as to A.E.M., he wrote a letter [not available] to the brethren – not a specially good one I thought. He said the love of money was in all our hearts, but he did not say he was specially guilty of this.

• He said in a letter to me that he would like me to call with him if I were in England, as he wants to have a talk with me about the present crisis. I judge from his letter to me and also the one to the brethren that he is not to clear in his thinking faculties.

Glad to hear about Mr. Robert Smith’s visit. He writes me occasionally, as you know, and his letters are always balanced and sound.

As to James McMullan and Mrs. McMullan, I have had several conversations with them; both show a good spirit, and I desire to smooth out any distance or ill feeling.

• Just at present I do not see how we could break bread together. Mr. Kernahan has very decided views, I am told by John D. McGimpsey.

• They would not make addressing the Spirit a test, though C.A.K. especially would definitely object to it. However I have in view to have a conversation with him soon.

I shall endeavour to write as soon as possible giving you my impressions as to the whole question of the worship of the Holy Spirit [unavailable].

• I do feel however it is a time when much feeding and shepherding is needed amongst the sheep, many of them scattered in the cloudy and dark day. Ezekiel 34.

• It is a pity, I think, that some brothers are most anxious to send out letters and circulars trying to support their particular view. It is possible to gain a point but lose a brother.

Much love to both and to the brethren.
Yours in Christ Jesus. Charles W. Cooper.

6th October, 1961
Beloved Brother,
I owe you several letters, I am afraid, and though it might not appear so, I always like to hear from you.

We are encouraged here in our little gatherings at 169a Ormeau Road.

A little girl called Isa Boyd, who just recently withdrew at Carrickfergus, came to the preaching last Lord’s Day with John McGimpsey; her brother, though very unhappy, stills breaks bread at Carrick.

• Jack McAleese comes regularly to all our meetings,: he is a sober and godly brother, and his wife is a nice girl – her sister is married to Norman McMullan.

• Jack says he enjoys our meetings, but knowing of the rather confused state amongst those out he is unwilling to commit himself in the breaking of bread; he will not have anything to do with those who refuse to worship the Spirit.

I have had two visits from Mr. George Brennan Sr. He has a brother in Toronto.* He has been breaking bread with Mr. McMullan and Mr. Kernahan for some time now but says that meeting is as dead as could be.

[* Robert Brennan and his wife Serena – St. John – were a delightful aged couple. They remained with the legal sect. R.B. was formerly employed in John Bulloch’s tailoring business.]

• Fergus Angus and his wife are going – not yet breaking bread – but Brennan says they will soon regret this move.

• Mr. Brennan has come to the judgment that the Spirit is worthy of response, but he says that both Mr. Kernahan and Mr. McMullan were diametrically opposed to such a practice. When he questioned them about it recently he finds that they endeavour to go more softly, saying they would allow persons to address the Spirit, and they try to deny that they had any different thought at any time …*
  [* The section omitted here is in The Manchester Connection.]

In connection with your remarks as to leadership I think it is a time of waiting – waiting upon God, and waiting for the brethren. We have heard so much about leadership recently that I almost shrink from the thought.

• It is striking that the move which has taken place over the past year was not due to some influential brother.

• So far as I am concerned, I have not the natural [?] qualifications for leadership; J.T.Sr. was a man who naturally had great tenacity and stuck to his thoughts. I think it marks the Taylor family.

• On the other hand, I am naturally timid and retiring and enjoyed things better when I could keep in the hole-in-the-corner, avoiding publicity.

• However, just now, at this critical period, the Lord and His interests call for a full and definite committal, personal preferences and prejudices must be set aside. There is do much to do, so few to do it, and so little time.*
  [* It is still the same now, perhaps more so – 35 years later!]

I understand that Wellesley Hall is now vacant; the brethren are now meeting in —’s house. The weekly meetings too have been rearranged to be in line with New York. Some of the local readings are now on Wednesday, some Fridays and city meeting Thursday.*

[* Such slavish imitation! In Toronto, up to 1970 at least, the city reading was on Wednesday, as it always had been.]

• It is now forbidden for anyone to be present at a fellowship meeting unless they are breaking bread and in the case of young people, unless they are under 12. Children of 13, 14, 15 etc. cannot go to these meetings if they do not break bread.

• This is a scheme to compel them to break bread rather than have to stay at home for 6 or 7 hours on a Saturday afternoon by themselves. When anyone asks for scripture it is Jairus’ daughter, though I cannot find any reference to fellowship meetings there!

You and the brethren in Toronto are often in our thoughts and prayers. There are many lonely ones all over the world just now but the Good Shepherd knows about each one.

Our love in the Lord Jesus to your household and to your Mother.
Charles W. Cooper.

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JOHN  McGIMPSEY
Jordanstown, Co. Antrim

13th December 1960
Mr. John Bulloch,
Dear John,
… I had heard that you got into difficulties after returning home to Toronto and I have felt for you and your dear wife in this, realising a little how harshly the current teaching has been enforced in recent months and what it has meant for you …

Now as regards the position here, it is sad beyond words and I never could have believed it possible for things to deteriorate so rapidly.

• You have probably heard in the meantime that I have withdrawn with my wife and Norman, as we just could not possibly accept the teaching which was being enforced or the assembly judgments in Bangor and Holywood.

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