Nonconformist Romanism.—We have been always accustomed to associate Ritualistic and Romanising tendencies and practices in England with the Episcopal Church, but there have been, lately, disclosures which show that these tendencies and practices are to be found, in a marked degree, in Nonconformist Churches. We are much indebted to the Protestant Alliance Magazine for varied information from month to month, and the June number contains alarming disclosures, taken from the Churchman’s Magazine, relative to the Romish practices of a Dr. Orchard, a Congregationalist, who ministers at King’s Weigh House Chapel, London. He has vestments like a Roman priest, and adores the Sacrament with bowings and crossings. The Madonna, crucifix, and candles are features of his place of worship. There is little to distinguish it from a Popish chapel. It is also reported that a new organisation has been started among Nonconformists, entitled the “Society of Free Catholics.” The policy of this Society is to advocate gradual innovations of the Roman type. The names of several ministers are given who belong to the organisation, and who publicly declare their sympathy with Romish doctrines and practices. Further exposures are in the Protestant Alliance Magazine for July. Truly the signs of the times are ominous. We may return again to the subject.
The Envoy at the Vatican.—It is rumoured (the Protestant Alliance Magazine informs us) that the Government are considering the appointment of a permanent envoy at the Vatican, and the reception of an Envoy to reside in England. This is a serious state of affairs, and the Protestant Alliance Committee are urging all friends to send protests to Mr. Lloyd George against the latter proposal, and to demand again the recall of the Envoy now at the Vatican. Several newspapers, including The Spectator and The Belfast News Letter, have had sound, trenchant articles against these diplomatic relations with the Pope.