The Christian observer [afterw.] The Christian observer and advocate

affection, in my own immediate circle, that, as far as in me lies, I may be instrumental in stemming the anti-moral and anti-social torrent? Am I diligently promoting that pure and undefiled religion which is the best cement of states, as well as the only guarantee for the temporal or eternal happiness of individuals? Am I setting a religious example in my own person? Am I exerting myself for the Christian discipline and instruction of my family; for the religious education of the poor; for the extension of the Gospel; for the salvation of all mankind?" We would hope that many who have hitherto looked coldly on such exertions, or who have even opposed them, will at length feel the force of their obligations, and respond to the call which is imperatively made, by the present circumstances of the country, on the combined beneficence of every individual who is interested in its prosperity. The state of the Church, in particular, calls for serious consideration; and much is required to restore it to its due popularity and efficiency. It demands an active, humble, self-denying, and devotional clergy; men who may gain the hearts and the confidence of the people, and who will faithfully "watch for souls as they that must give account ;" and it demands a very large augmentation of their numbers. It demands, in its ecclesiastical governors, no ordinary share of piety, discretion, and vigilance. It asks, especially, for kind and healing measures-measures which may counteract the popular ferment against the clergy and the church; measures, we do not scruple to say, the very reverse of those which some zealous partymen are desirous of carrying into effect. But we drop this subject for the present, as we shall shortly have occasion to allude to it again, in examining the new articles of religion imposed on candidates for holy orders, by the Bishop of Peterborough, which, as if we had not controversies enough on our hands, already promise to furnish a fruitful source of ecclesiastical warfare during the year that is before us.

We cannot conclude this address without expressing our gratitude to our friends, correspondents, and subscribers, for their favours and indulgence; and earnestly requesting their prayers to the Author of every good and perfect gift, that we may be enabled to conduct our labours in such a manner as shall best tend to his glory, to the welfare of his church, and to the temporal and eternal benefit of mankind.