The Gospel Messenger April 17, 1897 page 253 Vol. 35 No. 16

Rockingham. – The Wacanda church met in special council April 3, with elders D. D. Sell and D. M. Mohler present. The latter presiding. At this meeting the Wacanda church divided its territory into three different congregation, viz. The north part, the “Pleasant View.” Church, with about one hundred members, Bro. Geo. Clemens, elder; the south part, the “Rockingham” church, with about one hundred and sixty members. Bro. S. B. Shirk, elder, the west part, the “Wacanda” church, with about seventy-five members, yet unorganized. It was further decided that our old church book, with all other church papers, be put way fro reference for the different congregations. The work done seemed satisfactory to all present and, we hope, will be for the best. A love feast will be held at the Rockingham church, May 15, for all of the members of the old Wacanda church. – J. H. Shirkey, April 5.

The Gospel Messenger May 29, 1897 page 348 Vol. 35 No. 22

Pleasant View Church. – This congregation, situated in Ray County, was until recently, the northern portion of the Rockingham congregation. We met in our first council April. 28, at the residence of Eld. G. W. Clemens, with Bro. S. B. Shirkey acting as Moderator. A great deal of business was brought before the meeting. The church chose a site for a meetinghouse, three and one-half miles north of Rockingham church. Bro. John Mason was elected to the ministry, and brethren Jos. Brown and J. W. Clemens to the office of deacon. The installation of these brethren was followed by some good advice from our Moderator, which as duly appreciated by all. A special council was held May 8, to decide upon the size of the meetinghouse, the building of which we hope to begin immediately. We have preaching by Brethren once a month, and Sunday school at our schoolhouse, but we feel the need of a place of meeting with ample room. – Maggie Clemens, Stet, Mo., May 10.