II. A higher stand was taken for an educated ministry. One of the brethren, on his own volition, presented a resolution to this effect: “That from this day we, as an Association, will neither license nor ordain any man to preach in our churches who is not fitted by education to perform all the sacred duties of his office.” The brethren in the discussion preceding the vote said that while there was formerly an excuse for an ignorant ministry, we now have our colleges and theological seminaries, and with a little self-denial, all who wish may fit themselves to guide intelligently the minds and hearts of the people. III. The necessity was deeply felt and freely expressed, of taking a clearer and stronger denominational position, with all charity and fellowship for all who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. We, as Congregationalists, should know the ground on which we stand, and be able to give a reason for the hope within us. It was voted that a Manual be prepared, answering more fully than any yet issued, the local needs of our Louisiana churches. This Manual will be prepared during the summer, and submitted in manuscript to the Association at its next meeting. We were fortunate in having the presence and cordial aid of Rev. O. D. Crawford, of Mobile. He gave an address, Wednesday night, on the subject: “Why am I a Congregationalist?” It was scholarly, judicious and effective. The Moderator, yielding to the kind and earnest desire of the brethren, occupied the evening session of Thursday in an account of his visit to Europe, with especial reference to the Jubilee Meeting of the Congregational Union of England and Wales, held at Manchester in October last. After prayer and song, and with deep gratitude to God for His blessing upon our annual meeting, the Association adjourned, to meet in New Iberia the first Wednesday in April, 1883. I desire, in concluding this statement, to say that if our Northern friends wish to see a vigorous Congregational Association in Louisiana, the _helping hand_ must be extended, with the “God bless you” from the lips. Weak points along the lines need to be strengthened, the faint and weary to be encouraged and the streams of benevolence to be directed into the barren wastes, where men of God have only their lives to offer. TEACHERS’ INSTITUTE AT MEMPHIS. BY MISS ELLA A. HAMILTON.