The Presbyterian l-r’l'tness’Reports on the Synod of 1859 in which the Rev. Donald

McDonald Is Verbally "Assaulted" by the Rev. Alexander MacKay, Late of Belfast.

July 2, 1859

The Synod met in Pictou in early July. The Rev. Donald McDonald was welcomed by the officers of the Synod but the Rev. Alexander McKay, who had formerly served at Belfast, P.E.I., opposed the motion for McDonald's acceptance at the meeting. He would vote against it "for the sake of the character of the church.” He hoped he would not be called upon to give reasons. Mr McDonald said he was quite willing to lay his certificates before the Synod. [He in fact did later present "certificates of character and attainment“ from ministers, professors and Presbyteries in Scotland]

McKay rose: ' 'He has spoken against our church and transgressed its rules in innumerable instances.’ He could give proof of his assertions. Mr. Martin protested against the unkindness of the discussion 'Mr. McDonald is not under our jurisdiction, Mr.[Rev. James} Mair rose to remind the Synod that Mr. McDonald is not and never was a member of the Church He is prepared to hand over his people to us

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