1845 Circular Letter of the Primitive Baptist Association (Mississippi)

DOWN THROUGH THE DARK AGES of pagan, papal and protestant persecution, God has overruled all their rage and malice, and brought it to bear upon his servants in such a manner as to make them the more active in preaching the word of God everywhere. It was persecution in Europe, that brought the pioneers of the Gospel ministry to our beloved shores; and when they thought to sit unmolested and secure under their gourds, and enjoy that social felicity together, for which they had bidden adieu to their native country, and for the enjoyment of which they had crossed the mighty deep, God prepared a worm to gnaw the gourd—it withered—it died. Persecution then arose from the most popular party (Congregationalists,) and they were scattered and went everywhere as God directed their way in providence.