Ludwig-Maximilians-Universit¨at Munchen¨ Evangelisch-Theologische Fakult¨at Abteilung fur¨ Kirchengeschichte Lehrstuhl Prof. Klaus Koschorke Webportal Außereurop¨aische Christentumsgeschichte (Asien, Afrika, Lateinamerika) www.aecg.evtheol.lmu.de

Summaries of the Minutes of the Consistory of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo held at the Wolvendaal Church, Colombo Volume No. 4A/3 (1760-1787)

Translated by S. A. W. Mottau d Edited by Klaus Koschorke

First published online May 16, 2008 This version published online May 16, 2008 © Prof. Klaus Koschorke 2008 www.aecg.evtheol.lmu.de

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5 Summaries of the Minutes of the Consistory of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo held at the Wolvendaal Church, Colombo – Volume No. 4A/3 (1760- 1787) 1 Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday, 2nd July 1760 (p. 1) ...... 1 Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 8th July 1760 (p. 2) ...... 2 Ordinary meeting of 23rd June (? should be 8 July) 1760 (p. 3) ...... 2 Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 29th July 1760 (p. 5) ...... 4 Ordinary meeting of 22nd September 1760 (p. 6) ...... 4 Censura Morum meeting of 2nd April 1760 (p. 7) ...... 5 Extraordinary meeting of 22nd May 1760 (p. 9) ...... 7 Extraordinary meeting of 25th September 1760 (p. 11) ...... 8 Censura Morum of 1st October 1760 (p. 12) ...... 8 Extraordinary meeting of 13th October 1760 (p. 14) ...... 9 Extraordinary meeting of 27th October 1760 (p. 15) ...... 10 Extraordinary meeting of 6th November 1760 (p. 22) ...... 15 Extraordinary meeting of 23rd November 1760 (p. 24) ...... 16 Extraordinary meeting of 12th December 1760 (p. 25) ...... 17 Extraordinary meeting or 16th December 1760 (p. 48) ...... 34 Ordinary meeting of 29th December 1760 (p. 61) ...... 43 Censura Morum meeting of 7th January l76l (p. 62) ...... 44 Extraordinary meeting of 12th January 1761 (p. 64) ...... 45 Extraordinary meeting of 23rd January 1761 (p. 65) ...... 46 Extraordinary meeting of 5th February 1761 (p. 67) ...... 47 Extraordinary meeting of 23rd February l761 (p. 72) ...... 50 Ordinary meeting of 9th March 1761 (p. 73) ...... 51 Censura Morum meeting of 18th March 1761 (p. 74) ...... 52 Extraordinary meeting of 27th April 1761 (p. 75) ...... 53 Extraordinary meeting of 26th May 1761 (p. 77) ...... 54 Extraordinary meeting of 3rd June 1761 (p. 79) ...... 56 Ordinary meeting of the 22nd June 1761 (p. 81) ...... 57 Censura Morum meeting of 1st July 1761 (p. 82) ...... 57 Extraordinary meeting of (20th) July 1761 (p. 83) ...... 58 Extraordinary meeting of 3rd August 1761 (p. 84) ...... 59 Extraordinary meeting of 24th August 1761 (p. 86) ...... 61 Extraordinary meeting of 26th August 176l (p. 87) ...... 62 Extraordinary meeting of 28th August 1761 (p. 88) ...... 63 Ordinary meeting of 21st September 1761 (p. 91) ...... 64 Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday the 30th of September 1761 (p. 94) . . . . 67 ii

Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 13th of October l76l (p. 95) ...... 68 Extraordinary meeting of 12th November 1761 (p. 115) ...... 82 Ordinary meeting of 28th December 1761 (p. 117) ...... 84 Censura Morum held on the 6th January 1762 (p. 119) ...... 85 Extraordinary meeting of 10th June 1762 (p. 121) ...... 86 Extraordinary meeting on 11th January 1762 (p. 123) ...... 88 Extraordinary meeting on 21st January 1762 (p. 125) ...... 89 Extraordinary meeting of 22nd January 1762 (p. 126) ...... 90 Extraordinary meeting of 1st March 1762 (p. 127) ...... 90 Ordinary meeting of 19th March 1762 (p. 129) ...... 92 Censura Morum on 7th April 1762 (p. 131) ...... 93 Ordinary meeting of 21st June 1762 (p. 133) ...... 94 Cersura Morum of 30th June 1762 (p. 134) ...... 95 Extraordinary meeting of 26th August 1762 (p. 135) ...... 96 Ordinary meeting of 20th September 1762 (p. 136) ...... 96 Censura Morum of 28th September 1762 (p. 138) ...... 97 Extraordinary meeting of 8th October 1762 (p. 139) ...... 98 Extraordinary meeting on 29th November 1762 (p. 141) ...... 100 Extraordinary meeting of 20th December 1762 (p. 142) ...... 100 Ordinary meeting of 27th December 1762 (p. 143) ...... 101 Censura Morum meeting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday the 5th of January 1763 (p. 144) 102 Extraordinary meeting of 17th January 1763 (p. 145) ...... 102 Extraordinary meeting of 24th January 1763 (p. 146) ...... 103 Extraordinary meeting of 26th January 1763 (p. 147) ...... 104 Extraordinary meeting of 4th February 1763 (p. 148) ...... 105 Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday the 30th March 1763 (p. 155) ...... 106 Ordinary meeting of 21st March 1763 (p. 161) ...... 107 Extraordinary meeting of 24th May 1763 (p. 157) ...... 108 Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1763 (p. 157) ...... 108 Censura Morum of 29th June 1763 (p. 158) ...... 109 Extraordinary meeting of 28th July 1763 (p. 160) ...... 111 Ordinary meeting of 19th September 1763 (p. 149) ...... 111 Censura Morum of 28th September 1763 (p. 150) ...... 112 Extraordinary meeting of 18th October 1763 (p. 152) ...... 113 Extraordinary meeting of 2lst November 1763 (p. 167) ...... 115 Ordinary meeting of 3rd January 1764 (p. 171) ...... 116 Censura Morum of 11th January 1764 (p. 172) ...... 117 Extraordinary meeting of 25th January 1764 (p. 173) ...... 118 Extraordinary meeting of 20th February 1764 (p. 174) ...... 118 Ordinary meeting of 9th April 1764 (p. 175) ...... 119 Extraordinary meeting of 12th April 1764 (p. 176) ...... 120 Censura Morum meeting of 18th April 1764 (p. 177) ...... 120 Extraordinary meeting of 30th May 1764 (p. 178) ...... 121 Ordinary meeting held on Monday the 18th June 1764 (p. 163) ...... 127 Censura Morum of 27th June 1764 (p. 169) ...... 128 iii

Ordinary meeting of 24th September 1764 (p. 166) ...... 129 Censura Morum of 3rd October 1764 (p. 164) ...... 129 Ordinary meeting of 31st December 1764 (p. 185) ...... 131 Censura Morum of 9th January 1765 (p. 187) ...... 132 Extraordinary meeting on 21st January 1765 (p. 188) ...... 132 Ordinary meeting on 25th March 1765 (p. 189) ...... 133 Censura Morum of 3rd April 1765 (p. 191) ...... 134 Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1765 (p. 193) ...... 136 Censura Morum of 3rd July 1765 (p. 195) ...... 137 Extraordinary meeting of 28th August 1765 (p. 196) ...... 139 Ordinary meeting on Tuesday the (5)th of October 1765 (p. 198) ...... 140 Censura Morum on Wednesday the 8th of October 1765 (p. 207) ...... 141 Extraordinary meeting of 21st October 1765 (p. 202) ...... 142 Extraordinary meeting held on the 11th of November 1765 (p. 203) ...... 144 Ordinary meeting held on the 30th of December 1765 (p. 207) ...... 146 Censuram Morum of 8th January 1766 (p. 209) ...... 147 Extraordinary meeting of 22nd January 1766 (p. 211) ...... 148 Extraordinary meeting of 29th January 1766 (p. 212) ...... 148 Extraordinary meeting of 17th February 1766 (p. 213) ...... 148 Ordinary meeting of 16th March 1766 (p. 214) ...... 149 Censura Morum of 26th March 1766 (p. 215) ...... 150 Ordinary meeting of 23rd June 1766 (p. 216) ...... 151 Censura Morum meeting on 2nd July 1766 (p. 220) ...... 155 On resumption on the 7th of July 1766 (p. 220) ...... 156 Extraordinary meeting of 5th August 1766 (p. 222) ...... 157 Ordinary meeting of 22nd September 1766 (p. 224) ...... 159 Censura Morum held on 1st October 1766 (p. 225) ...... 159 Extraordinary meeting held on the 7th of October 1766 (p. 227) ...... 160 Extraordinary meeting of 3rd November 1766 (p. 228) ...... 161 Extraordinary meeting of 27th November 1766 (p. 229) ...... 161 Ordinary meeting of 29th November 1766 (p. 230) ...... 162 Extraordinary meeting of 13th January 1767 (p. 232) ...... 163 Censura Morum of 7th January 1767 (p. 233) ...... 163 Extraordinary meeting of 16th February 1767 (p. 234) ...... 165 Extraordinary meeting of 2nd March 1767 (p. 235) ...... 165 Ordinary meeting of 6th April 1767 (p. 236) ...... 166 Censura Morum of 15th April 1767 (p. 237) ...... 167 Ordinary meeting of 3rd June 1767 (p. 238) ...... 168 Censura Morum of 1st July 1767 (p. 239) ...... 169 Extraordinary Joint (i.e. combined) meeting held on 23rd July 1767 (p. 242) . . . 171 Ordinary meeting held on 21st September 1767 (p. 243) ...... 172 Censura Morum of 1st October 1767 (p. 224) ...... 172 Extraordinary Joint (i.e. Combined) meeting held on 1st December 1767 (p. 246) . 174 Ordinary meeting on 4th January 1768 (p. 249) ...... 176 Censura Morum held on the 13th January 1768 (p. 251) ...... 177 iv

Extraordinary meeting held on 20th January 1768 (p. 253) ...... 178 Extraordinary meeting held on 25th January 1768 (p. 254) ...... 179 Extraordinary meeting held on the 22nd of February 1768 (p. 255) ...... 180 Ordinary meeting of 21st March 1768 (p. 256) ...... 181 Censura Morum of 30th March 1768 (p. 258) ...... 182 Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1768 (p. 259) ...... 183 Censura Morum of 29th June 1768 (p. 261) ...... 185 Extraordinary meeting of 5th July 1768 (p. 263) ...... 186 Extraordinary meeting held on 25th July 1768 (p. 264) ...... 187 Extraordinary meeting held on 16th August 1768 (p. 265) ...... 188 Ordinary meeting held on the 19th September 1768 (p. 266) ...... 189 Censura Morum held on the 28th of September 1768 (p. 269) ...... 190 Extraordinary meeting held on 10th November 1768 (p. 271) ...... 192 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1769 (p. 275) ...... 194 Censura Morum held on 11th January 1769 (p. 276) ...... 195 Extraordinary meeting held on 18th January 1769 (p. 279) ...... 196 Extraordinary meeting held on 10th March 1769 (p. 281) ...... 197 Ordinary meeting held on the 13th of March 1769 (p. 282) ...... 198 Censura Morum meeting held on the 22nd of March 1769 (p. 283) ...... 199 Extraordinary combined meeting held on the 3rd of April 1769 (p. 284) ...... 200 Ordinary meeting held on the 19th of June 1769 (p. 285) ...... 201 Censura Morum held on the 28th of June 1769 (p. 287) ...... 202 Extraordinary meeting held on the 13th of July 1769 (p. 288) ...... 203 Extraordinary meeting held on the 8th August 1769 (p. 290) ...... 204 Ordinary meeting held on the 18th of September 1769 (p. 291) ...... 204 Censura Morum meeting held cm the 27th of September 1769 (p. 294) ...... 206 Extraordinary meeting held on the 10th of November 1769 (p. 295) ...... 207 Ordinary meeting held on the 2nd January 1770 (p. 296) ...... 207 Censura Morum held on the 10th of January 1770 (p. 297) ...... 208 Extraordinary meeting held on the 23rd of January 1770 (p. 298) ...... 209 Extraordinary meeting held on the 12th of March 1770 (p. 299) ...... 210 Ordinary meeting held on the 2nd of Apri 1770 (p. 300) ...... 211 Censura Morum held on the 11th of April 1770 (p. 303) ...... 212 Ordinary meeting held on the 18th of June 1770 (p. 305) ...... 213 Censura Morum held on the 27th of June 1770 (p. 306) ...... 214 Extraordinary meeting held on the 25th of July 1770 (p. 308) ...... 215 Ordinary meeting held on the 24th of September 1770 (p. 309) ...... 215 Censura Morum held on the 3rd of October 1770 (p. 310) ...... 216 Extraordinary meeting held on the 29th of October 1770 (p. 311) ...... 217 Ordinary meeting of the 30th December 1770 (p. 312) ...... 217 Censura Morum held on 9th January 1771 (p. 313) ...... 218 Extraordinary meeting, held on the 23rd of January 1771 (p. 315) ...... 219 Extraordinary meeting held on the 5th of February 1771 (p. 316) ...... 219 Ordinary meeting held on l8th March 1771 (p. 317) ...... 220 Censura Morum held on the 27th of March 1771 (p. 321) ...... 221 v

Extraordinary meeting held on the 8th April 1771 (p. 323) ...... 222 Ordinary meeting held on the 24th of June 1771 (p. 324) ...... 222 Censura Morum, held on the 3rd of July 1771 (p. 326) ...... 224 Extraordinary meeting held on 15th July 1771 (p. 327) ...... 224 Extraordinary meeting held on the 5th of August 1771 (p. 328) ...... 225 Ordinary meeting held on the 23rd September 1771 (p. 329) ...... 226 Censura Morum held on the 2nd of October 1771 (p. 331) ...... 227 Extraordinary meeting held on 9th October 1771 (p. 332) ...... 228 Extraordinary meeting held on 7th November 1771 (p. 333) ...... 228 Ordinary meeting held on the 30th of December 1771 (p. 334) ...... 229 Censura Morum held on the 8th of January 1772 (p. 335) ...... 229 Extraordinary meeting held on 20th January 1772 (p. 336) ...... 230 Ordinary meeting; held on 6th April 1772 (p. 338) ...... 231 Censura Morum held on 15th April 1772 (p. 339) ...... 231 Ordinary meeting held on 22nd June 1772 (p. 340) ...... 232 Censura Morum of ... June 1772 (p. 341) ...... 233 Ordinary meeting held on 21st September 1772 (p. 342) ...... 233 Censura Morum held on 30th September 1772 (p. 345) ...... 235 Extraordinary meeting held on 19th October 1772 (p. 346) ...... 236 Extraordinary meeting held on 9th November 1772 (p. 347) ...... 236 Ordinary meeting held on 28th November 1772 (p. 348) ...... 237 Censura Morum held on the 6th of January 1773 (p. 349) ...... 237 Extraordinary combined meeting held on 18th January 1773 (p. 350) ...... 238 Ordinary meeting held on 29th March 1773 (p. 352) ...... 239 Censura Morum held on 7th April 1773 (p. 354) ...... 240 Ordinary meeting held on 21st June 1773 (p. 355) ...... 241 Censura Morum held on ... (The date is not entered in these minutes) (p. 356) . . 241 Extraordinary meeting held on 1st August 1773 (p. 357) ...... 242 Extraordinary meeting held on 6th September 1773 (p. 358) ...... 242 Ordinary meeting held on 20th September 1773 (p. 359) ...... 242 Censura Morum held on 29th September 1773 (p. 360) ...... 243 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1774 (p. 361) ...... 243 Censura Morum held on 12th January 1774 (p. 364) ...... 245 Extraordinary meeting held on 21st February 1774 (p. 365) ...... 246 Ordinary meeting held on 21st March 1774 (p. 367) ...... 247 Censura Morum held on 30th March 1774 (p. 369) ...... 247 Ordinary meeting held on 20th June 1774 (p. 371) ...... 248 Censura Morum held on 29th June 1774 (p. 372) ...... 249 Extraordinary meeting held on 1st August 1774 (p. 373) ...... 249 Ordinary meeting held on 19th September 1774 (p. 374) ...... 250 Censura Morum held on 28th September 1774 (p. 375) ...... 250 Ordinary meeting held on 5th January 1775 (p. 376) ...... 251 Censura Morum held on 11th January 1775 (p. 378) ...... 252 Extraordinary meeting held on 21st January 1775 (p. 379) ...... 253 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd April 1775 (p. 380) ...... 253 vi

Censura Morum held on 12th April 1775 (p. 382) ...... 254 Extraordinary meeting held on the 27th of April 1775 (p. 384) ...... 255 Ordinary meeting held on 19th June 1775 (p. 385) ...... 255 Censura Morum held on 27th June 1775 (p. 386) ...... 256 Extraordinary meeting held on 4th August 1775 (p. 387) ...... 257 Extraordinary meeting of 18th September 1775 (p. 390) ...... 259 Censura Morum held on 27th September 1775 (p. 391) ...... 259 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1776 (p. 392) ...... 260 Censura Morum held on 10th January 1776 (p. 394) ...... 261 Extraordinary Combined meeting held on 25th January 1776 (p. 395) ...... 261 Ordinary meeting held on 25th March 1776 (p. 396) ...... 262 Censura Morum of 3rd April 1776 (p. 397) ...... 262 Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1776 (p. 399) ...... 263 Censura Morum held on 3rd July 1776 (p. 400) ...... 263 Extraordinary meeting held on 13th August 1776 (p. 401) ...... 264 Ordinary meeting held on 23rd September 1776 (p. 402) ...... 264 Censura Morum held on 2nd October 1776 (p. 403) ...... 265 Extraordinary meeting of 7th November 1776 (p. 404) ...... 266 Ordinary meeting held on 30th December 1776 (p. 405) ...... 266 Censura Morum held on 8th January 1777 (p. 406) ...... 267 Extraordinary meeting held on 21st January 1777 (p. 407) ...... 267 Extraordinary meeting held on 18th February 1777 (p. 408) ...... 268 Ordinary meeting held on 18th March 1777 (p. 410) ...... 269 Censura Morum held on 26th March 1777 (p. 411) ...... 269 Ordinary meeting held on 23rd July 1777 (p. 412) ...... 269 Censura Morum of 2nd July 1777 (p. 413) ...... 270 Ordinary meeting held on 24th September 1777 (p. 414) ...... 270 Censura Morum held on 1st October 1777 (p. 415) ...... 271 Ordinary meeting held on 29th December 1777 (p. 416) ...... 271 Censura Morum held on 7th January 1778 (p. 417) ...... 272 Ordinary meeting held on the 6th of April 1778 (p. 418) ...... 272 Censura Morum held on 15th April 1778 (p. 419) ...... 273 Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1778 (p. 420) ...... 273 Censura Morum held on the 1st of July 1778 (p. 421) ...... 274 Ordinary meeting of 28th September 1778 (p. 423) ...... 275 Censura Morum held on 30th September 1775 (p. 424) ...... 275 Extraordinary meeting held on the 12th of November 1778 (p. 425) ...... 276 Ordinary meeting held on 28th December 1778 (p. 426) ...... 276 Censura Morum held on 6th January 1779 (p. 427) ...... 276 Ordinary meeting held on 22nd March 1779 (p. 428) ...... 277 Censura Morum held on 31st March 1779 (p. 431) ...... 278 Extraordinary meeting held on 19th May 1779 (p. 432) ...... 279 Ordinary meeting held on (23rd) June 1779 (p. 434) ...... 279 Censura Morum held on 30th June 1779 (p. 435) ...... 280 Extraordinary meeting held on 19th August 1779 (p. 436) ...... 280 vii

Ordinary meeting held on 20th September 1779 (p. 437) ...... 281 Censura Morum held on 29th September 1779 (p. 438) ...... 281 Extraordinary meeting held on 8th November 1779 (p. 439) ...... 282 Ordinary meeting held on 5th January 1780 (p. 440) ...... 282 Censura Morum of 12th January 1780 (p. 441) ...... 282 Ordinary meeting held on 13th March 1780 (p. 442) ...... 283 Censura Morum held on 22nd March 1780 (p. 443) ...... 283 Ordinary meeting held on 19th June 1780 (p. 444) ...... 284 Censura Morum held on 28th June 1780 (p. 445) ...... 284 Ordinary meeting held on 18th September 1780 (p. 446) ...... 285 Censura Morum held on 27th September 1780 (p. 447) ...... 286 Extraordinary meeting of 9th November 1780 (p. 448) ...... 286 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1781 (p. 449) ...... 286 Censura Morum held on 10th January 1781 (p. 450) ...... 287 Ordinary meeting held on 2nd April 1781 (p. 451) ...... 287 Censura Morum held on 11th April 1781 (p. 452) ...... 288 Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1781 (p. 454) ...... 288 Censura Morum held on 27th June 1781 (p. 455) ...... 289 Ordinary meeting held on 24th September 1781 (p. 456) ...... 289 Censura Morum held en 3rd October 1781 (p. 457) ...... 290 Censura Morum held on 9th January 1782 (p. 458) ...... 290 Ordinary meeting held on 18th March 1782 (p. 459) ...... 291 Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1782 (p. 462) ...... 292 Censura Morum held on 3rd July 1782 (p. 463) ...... 292 Ordinary meeting held on 23rd September 1782 (p. 464) ...... 293 Censura Morum of 2nd October 1782 (p. 465) ...... 293 Extraordinary meeting held on the 14th and 28th October and 18th November 1782 (p.466) ...... 294 Ordinary meeting held on 2nd January 1783 (p. 468) ...... 295 Censura Morum held on 8th January 1783 (p. 469) ...... 295 Ordinary meeting held on 7th April 1783 (p. 470) ...... 296 Ordinary meeting of 23rd June 1783 (p. 471) ...... 296 Censura Morum of 2nd July 1783 (p. 472) ...... 297 Ordinary meeting held on 22nd September 1783 (p. 473) ...... 297 Censura Morum of 1st October 1783 (p. 474) ...... 298 Censura Morum of 7th January 1784 (p. 475) ...... 298 Censura Morum held on 8th April 1784 (p. 476) ...... 299 Ordinary meeting of 21st June 1784 (p. 477) ...... 299 Censura Morum of 30th June 1784 (p. 478) ...... 300 Ordinary meeting of 20th October 1784 (p. 479) ...... 300 Censura Morum held on 29th October 1784 (p. 480) ...... 301 Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1785 (p. 481) ...... 302 Censura Morum held on 12th January 1785 (p. 482) ...... 302 Ordinary meeting held on 14th March 1785 (p. 484) ...... 303 Censura Morum held on 23rd March 1785 (p. 485) ...... 304 viii

Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1785 (p. 486) ...... 304 Censura Morum held on 29th June 1785 (p. 487) ...... 305 Ordinary meeting held on 19th September 1785 (p. 488) ...... 305 Censura Morum of 28th September 1785 (p. 488) ...... 305 Ordinary meeting held on 2nd January 1786 (p. 489) ...... 306 Censura Morum held on 11th January 1786 (p. 489) ...... 306 Extraordinary meeting of 16th January 1786 (p. 491) ...... 307 Ordinary meeting of 3rd April 1786 (p. 492) ...... 307 Censura Morum held on 12th April 1786 (p. 493) ...... 308 Ordinary meeting held on 21st June 1786 (p. 494) ...... 308 Censura Morum held on 28th June 1786 (p. 496) ...... 309 Extraordinary meeting held on 14th August 1786 (p. 499) ...... 310 Censura Morum held on 27th September 1786 (p. 500) ...... 311 Censura Morum held on 10th January 1787 (p. 501) ...... 311 Censura Morum held on Wednesday 4th April 1787 (p. 503) ...... 312 Ordinary meeting held on 18th January 1787 (p. 505) ...... 313 Censura Morum held on 27th June 1787 (p. 506) ...... 314 ix

Editorial Notes

Comments by the translator (S.A.W. Mottau) are indicated by round brackets ( ) or by ”n.b.”. Comments by the editor are indicated by square brackets [ ] or footnotes. Unreadable parts of the translation are indicated by [***]. 5 Summaries of the Minutes of the Consistory of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo held at the Wolvendaal Church, Colombo – Volume No. 4A/3 (1760-1787)

Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday, 2nd July 1760 (p. 1)

Absent: Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer (at Galle), W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna), Elder L.A. Schokman (on official duty); and Deacons: J.A. van der Voort J. Lachom (on Commission) and J.B. Teyken. The Revs Mr. Bronsveld acted as President in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. All those who have to make their Confession of Faith are called in. The three questions are put to them and are duly answered by them. They are wished God’s blessing in their lives and their names are to be announced from the pulpit and duly registered according to the usual procedure along with the name of Frans Bak, who has arrived here with a testimonial from Holland, none of the members objecting to the same. The widow of one Mr. Steven, named Anna Blok, appeared and requested that the meeting forgive her for her past action and readmit her to Holy Communion: her request was granted with serious admonition that she should hereafter avoid such lapses and conduct herself with decorum. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were made against the life and work of any of the present or absent bretheren. On the question of the President whether anyone had any complaints to make regarding the members of the congregation, the Scriba reported that one Amarantia de Costa, after her lawful husband’s death, had lived with one Mr. Akkerman and had already begotten an illegitimate child by him. It was decided to postpone consideration of this matter pending further investigation, and the Sexton of the Wolvendaal Church was directed to inform her that she should meanwhile refrain from participation at Holy Communion. The Rev. Mr. Fybrantsz said that he had nothing special to report on his visits in the 1st block, and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld said the same in regard to his visits in the 2nd block, except that he had spoken to Mrs. Coste and he understood that the maid referred to at the previous session was already free, and that no sooner she is married she will immediately make her Confession of Faith. The Rev. Mr. Cornelisz who visited the old city (Pettah) too had nothing to report. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld informed the meeting that in fulfilling the Commission entrusted to him at the last session of the Censura Morum, he had spoken to Mr. Kriekenbeek, and that he (Mr. Kriekenbeek) had assured him that as long as he is attached to the office of the Court of Justice his presence in the Court House is essential at all times, and that further he was almost always on duty at the time of the house visits, especially at the last house visit of the Rev. Mr. Meyer when he was engaged on a Commission with Mr. Franchimond; and he (Mr. Bronsveld) also said that on his questioning him (Mr. Kriekenbeek) as to why his wife had not received him at his house visit, he replied that this was not out of disregard for the Ministers or their work (assuring on the contrary that she would regard it as a great honour to receive a Minister and an Elder in her home but that it was due to her very weak Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 2 state of health, as she was unable even to stand up without shivering and much difficulty. Concerning those who had promised to make their declaration of faith, it was resolved that the President ask them to come over to the Church to make their declaration of faith before the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in fulfilment of their undertaking. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle Church is to be administered by the Rev. Mr. Meyer, being his turn to do so, assisted by the Elders Mr. Blankert and Mr. Van Lier and the Deacons Messrs. Simons and Tyken. The house visits of the native congregation was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the Elder Mr. Blankert; and the service of Holy Communion in the Wolvendaal Church too was allotted to him, assisted by the Elders Messrs. Blankert and Schokman. The meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. H. Phillipsz (Acting Scriba ), J.J. Fybrands, B. Cornelisz; Elders: P. Blankert and S. van Lier.

Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 8th July 1760 (p. 2)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer, W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna); Elders: L.A. Schokman (on official duty), P. Blankert (indisposed); Deacons: H. Schutte (on account of his wife’s illness) and J.H . Simons (on official duty). The meeting began with prayer by the President. The Political Commissaris being asked whether he had anything to report replied in the negative. The President said that he had summoned the meeting in view of a letter which was handed to him by the Rev. Mr. Meyer; but before opening and reading this letter, as the Rev. Mr. Meyer was not indisposed, it was decided by vote to impose the usual fine on him for his absence, unless he had further reasons to adduce for a remission of the same. Proceeding then to open and read the aforesaid letter, it was found to be from the bretheren at Galle in reply to our letters of the 1st of March this year forwarding the Synodal Acts of North and South Holland for the year 1758, on which none of the bretheren had any comments to make, and it was decided to file the same of record to be replied in due course, and it was also decided to send the said Synodal Acts to the bretheren at Jaffna along with a covering letter requesting them to return the same to us after perusal. The minutes of the previous session were then read, approved and signed. Further, the names of the Dutch members, who, according to the decision of the 7th of January this year were accepted by the schoolmasters, were referred to the President, who also willingly undertook to compile a new membership roll to be tabled at this Consistory. Finally, at the request of the Scriba , it was resolved that the Church books be handed over by him to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in the presence of the elder Mr. Blankert and the Deacon Mr. Simons. The meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), H. Philipsz (Acting Scriba ), and P. Cornelisz; Elder P. Blankert, and Deacon J.A. Vander Voort.

Ordinary meeting of 23rd June (? should be 8 July) 1760 (p. 3)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer (at Galle), W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna), H. Philipsz (indisposed); Elder: J. Bauwer; Deacon H. Schutte (on account of his wife’s illness). The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld presided in place of the Rev. Mr. Meyer, and opened the meeting with prayer. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 3

The Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, produced the following extract of a resolution of the Political Council dated Tuesday the 3rd of June 1760: ”The extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory here dated the 22nd of May last was read, and it was decided to approve the recommendations in the same regarding the distribution of the completed copies of the recently-printed Tamil New Testament and the recovering (i.e. getting back) of the already distributed copies of the Four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, and also to have printed the Tamil Liturgy or Formulary of the Reformed Church as revised and approved by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld with the assistance of capable natives and to have 300 copies of the same made for the edification of the native Christians. (Signed: Cn. Jansen, 1st sworn clerk; In the margin: Collated by J. van der Sleyden).” This was noted for information. The minutes of the last meeting having been read, approved and signed, it was decided by a majority of vote to elect the Rev. Mr. Philipsz as President as he himself should be the next President in place of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. (Note: the context of this sentence is not quite clear). The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: The Rev. Mr. Fybrands with the elder Mr. Schokman for the 1st block. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld with the elder Mr. Blankert for the 2nd block. The Rev. Mr. Cornelisz with the elder Mr. Van Lier for the City. The service of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was allotted to Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Blankert; whereupon the Rev. Mr. Fybrands reported that he had administered Holy Communion there to five communicants assisted by the elder Mr. Bauwer and readmitted to Holy Communion there the censured youth on the discharge of the penalty imposed on him. He also informed the meeting that he had administered Holy Communion and done the special visits of the Dutch schools at the three outposts during the months of April and May; and the former duty was continued to be entrusted to Mr. Fybrands, while the visit to the three outposts of Panadura, Nagamuwa and Dandagamuwa was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the latter duty to the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Blankert. An ’attestatie’ from Galle in favour of Assentia Claasz (wife of Barth: Stroebe), signed by the Rev. Mr. Smit, having been tabled, and none of the members objecting, it was decided to announce her name from the pulpit at the usual time and to register the same in our books. Christoff el de Zilva and Anna Du Toit came in and submitted a petition with two baptism certificates signed by a Roman Catholic priest named Celestinus Pereyra and a testimonial by four persons named Geertruyda von Genteyn, widow of Sgt. N. Bok, Salomea Coenraeds, widow of the bookbinder Anthone Pieter, Adriaen Fernando, fisher, and Nattalia Fonseka, fisher’s wife, all of whom testified and confirmed that the above-named two persons Christoffel de Zilva and Anna Du Toit were baptised in their youth by the Roman Catholic priest Jacob Gonsalvo at Bolewatte, and the two firstnamed persons requested therefore that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recognised by us and that they may be regarded as having been baptised and their names so registered in the books, promising and assuring that they will make their declaration of faith to us after their marriage, and also that they will instruct and bring up in the Reformed Faith their children whom they have already begotten in illegitimacy; which request was granted as allowed to others. Further, there came in a maid of Captain Lieut. Coste, requesting admission to Holy Baptism on the confession of her faith: this was allowed provided that Captain Coste will confirm to us that within a Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 4

period of about 3 to 4 months of her marriage with any other person they will attend at Holy Communion. The Tombokeeper then came in and reported that a member at Cotta named Canganige Don Salomon had died, and mentioned the names of four persons belonging to the parish of Kelaniya, named Adicarigey Simon, Gammegey Maria, Alutegey Isabella Fonseka, widow of Francisco Perera, and Jayesinge Anna, all of whom wished to make their declaration of faith, and the meeting having noted the first named for investigation and approved of the others, referred the same to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands for disposal. As no members had any other business to bring up, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (Acting President), J.J. Fybrands and P. Cornelisz; Elder S. Van Lier and Deacon J.A. van der Voort.

Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 29th July 1760 (p. 5)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Fybrands (on circuit), W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna); Elders L.A. Schokman (on official duties) and S. van Lier (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris was asked whether he had anything to report, and he having reported in the negative, the President said that he had summoned the meeting at the request of the Rev. Mr. Meyer. Thereafter the minutes of the previous meeting were read, confirmed and signed by the members present; but the Rev. Mr. Meyer stated the cause of his absence at the last session and maintained that it was indeed true that he was in a garden at the time of the last session but that he was nevertheless indisposed and therefore unable to attend the meeting, and the members, considering the same, unanimously resolved that His Reverence be excused from the penalty imposed on him. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Meyer tabled a funeral sermon which he had prepared in memory of the Hon. Mr. Jonk (Note: the name is not quite clear owing to a blot in the correction of the Dutch text), requesting that it may be sent to the Press for printing with the approval of the Governor after due revision, and as none of the members had any comments to make thereon, the said sermon was referred to the President and the Rev. Mr. Cornelisz for revision, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), J.J. Meyer, P. Cornelisz; Elder: P. Blankert and Deacons: J.A. van der Voort, J.H. Schutte and J.H. Simons.

Ordinary meeting of 22nd September 1760 (p. 6)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Fybrandsz (indisposed) and the Elder: L.A. Schokman (on official duty). After invocation on God’s holy name, the minutes of the previous session were read, confirmed and signed. The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Cornelisz reported that they had carefully scrutinised the funeral oration referred to them for revision at the last session and found nothing in it which was contrary to accepted doctrine in the Formularies of Unity, and that they therefore Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 5 wished that it may serve as a means of comfort and consolation for the so deeply lamented loss of His Honour and of benefit for the edification of the community. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld produced the membership roll as far as he had revised it, stating that the number of members whose names were submitted and sent by the schoolmasters was much less than what appears in the old register, wherefore, in order to ascertain whether these members were still living, the Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Cornelisz were requested to make further enquirie thereon from the respective schoolmasters. Hereafter, at the request of the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje took over the office of President, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz took over the office of Scriba as the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld asked to be excused from the same on account of the business which he had in hand in view of his impending departure. The following arrangements were made for the house visits: The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Blankert for the 1st block. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Elder Mr. van Lier for the 2nd block. The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the deacon Mr. Van der Voort for the inner and the outer city. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz, the elder Mr. Blankert and the deacon Mr. Simons reported that they had handed over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld the Church books in the Church archives. The Rev. Mr. Meyer too reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Blankert and admitted two members there, so that this duty, according to the roster, devolved on the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder van Lier; and the visits to the outposts of Panadura, Dandagamuwa and Nagamuwa on the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, who represented that he was unable to administer Holy Communion at these places as he was generally overworked and also that the Rev. Mr. Meyer had not done the special school visits as the ordinary annual visit had to be done, which duty was then entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Blankert. The President enquired whether there was any other business, whereupon the widow of a Mr. Muysenaer came in and requested to know why she was debarred from participation at Holy Communion, and it was resolved to inform her of the reason for the same at the house visit. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Meyer and P. Cornelisz; the Elder P. Blankert; and the deacons: J.A. van der Voort and J.H. Simons.

Censura Morum meeting of 2nd April 1760 (p. 7)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed), W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna) and the deacon J.A. van der Voort (on commission). The meeting was opened with prayer. The President said that he had summoned this meeting to hold the Censura Morum over the members of this Consistory and over the members of the congregation, and that he could not complete the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting as he could not clarify the notes made by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Thereafter, no reports having been received against the teaching and conduct of any member of the Consistory, the President asked whether any member had any adverse report to make regarding the congregation, whereupon the Scriba said that the members of the native congregation should be admonished to live more diligently, which the Scriba himself Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 6 recommended should be done by us by admonishing them at the house visits. On the Brother Deacons being asked whether they had any report to make against the inmates of the Poor House, the deacon Mr. Laschom reported that a widow of a Mr. Muysenaar had got involved in life with a native, which matter was deferred for further investigation and she was to be asked to abstain from participation at Holy Communion on this occasion. The President, who had done the house visits in the 1st block reported that he did not find Mr. Kriekenbeek at home during his visit and that as far as he remembers this had been so on several previous occasions, and it was decided by a majority of vote that Mr. Bronsveld should take up the matter with him personally. The Scriba who had visited the 2nd block in place of Mr. Bronsveld said that he had nothing special to report; and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz who visited round the City reported that the daughter of Mr. Van den Berg, named Susanna, had requested readmission to Holy Communion. The persons who have made their declaration of faith on this occasion, whose names have to be registered after due announcement, were then called in, and the three questions after the short compendium were put to them and duly answered by their, and they were all wished God’s blessings so that they may more and more not only increase in their knowledge of the truth, but also inwardly experience the grace of God. The Rev. Fybrandsz produced an ’attestatie’ in favour of Johanna Catharine van Dorth, wife of the ensign J.J. Bellisse, now at Negombo, and enquired whether her name should be registered in the books after announcement from the pulpit or without such announcement, whereupon it was decided to do the latter and overlook the former as she now resides at Negombo. Further, those who had requests to make were summoned, and there came in a soldier named Jakob Stam, requesting to make his confession of faith, which was unanimously allowed. There also came in one Isaak Augustinus from Negepatnam, saying that he had made his declaration of faith there, and requesting therefore that he may be admitted to Holy Communion, whereupon he was told that he must bring two witnesses who are aware that he had done so in order that his request may be granted on the receipt of favourable reports by them. Further, the daughter of Mr. van den Berg mentioned above came in and personally requested that she may be re-admitted to participation at Holy Communion, which was allowed by this meeting, with the admonition that she should show proof of an irreproachable and godly life. There also came in Jacobus Valentyn, who produced proof of his Roman Catholic baptism by two witnesses and requested that the same may be recognised by this Consistory, which was allowed as in other cases, on the condition of his giving an undertaking in writing to the President that he will make his declaration of faith before us. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Mayer produced a written testimonial signed by two Malabars of the Reformed Faith, named Ayen Perumael, Philippu Kadergamen and Kanden Swaen Ambelewaenen of Jaffna, belonging to the school at Wannarponna, in which they declare and testify that the co-Malabar named Pedru Winture of the abovementioned school was baptised by the Rev. Mr. Schevola, and requesting therefore that, although his name, according to what he says, was not to be found entered in the baptism register there (which has probably happened through an oversight as has often been the case) he may be regarded as a baptised person and have his name registered in our books: which request was granted provided that the Rev. President first makes enquiries from Mrs. Van Buuren, who may probably know the said Winture, whether she knew anything about the matter. The service Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 7

of Holy Communion in the Castle is to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the assistance of the elders Messrs. Schokman and Bauwer and the brother deacons Messrs. van der Voort and Schutte. The house visits of the native congregation is to be done by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Van Lier, and the service of Holy Communion too is to be done by him assisted by the elders Messrs. van Lier and Blankert. In this connection, the elder Mr. Bauwer reported to the meeting with regret that the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, on the day when the last house visit of the native congregation had to be done when he (Mr. Bauwer) had been ready to assist him in the house visits, His Reverence sent word to him that he was unable to do the house visits, and that thus this house visit was not done on three occasions: whereupon it was decided to postpone discussion of this matter till the return of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs, H. Philipsz ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), J.J. Fybrandsz, P. Cornelisz; Elders: P. Blankert and S. van Lier; and the Deacons: J.H. Schutte and J.H. Simons.

Extraordinary meeting of 22nd May 1760 (p. 9)

Absent: The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer (indisposed) and W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna). The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld opened the sessions with prayer. He said that the Rev. Mr. Meyer, who was indisposed, had requested him to hold this meeting. The Political Commissaris, on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, stated, in fulfillment of the commission delegated to him at the last session, that it was not the intention of the Government, and that it was not necessary therefore that the marginal comments on the draft Church order (incorporated in the preceding minutes) should also be read out annually in the Session, and also that the further decisions of the Political Council should be given effect to. Thereafter, he tabled an extract of a Political resolution regarding the distribution of the 300 completed copies of the Tamil New Testament for the greater benefit of God’s Church and the recovering (lit: collecting back) of the 153 copies of the Four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles which had already been given out, which extract read as follows:- ” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Tuesday the 4th of March 1760. The Rev. Mr. S.A. Bronsveld having, on the requisition of His Excellency the Governor submitted a written report regarding the number of copies of the Tamil New Testament, it is accordingly resolved to incorporate the same in these minutes, and to hand over all of them to the Chief Administrator, to be given over as duly ordered to the Warehousekeeper and to be taken into the Trade Off ice books, and also to delegate to the Church Consistory the distribution for the greater benefit of God’s Church of the 300 completed copies with the pertinent preface and index, and also to expedite the recollecting of the 153 copies of the Four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles which had been previously distributed, so that copies of the ten further Epistles and the Revelations of St. John may be added to them, and that a further 1547 copies of the entire New Testament with the aforementioned preface and index be supplied as soon as the necessary printing paper becomes available, for distribution in due course among the native Christians. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 8

( Below ): Certified by: W. van Damast Lindberger, provisional 1st sworn clerk. Read by: E. Qualenbrink; and collated by: I.K. van den Broek” The Consistory having considered the same, in regard to the distribution of these copies for the greater benefit of God’s Church as approved by our Government, resolved to send 150 of the 300 completed copies for the use of the schools at Jaffna, Trincoinalee and Batticaloa, and that 80 of the 150 remaining copies be sent to Negombo, Kalpitiya, Galle, the Pannebackery and Slave Island, namely about 10 copies for each school, and 20 copies for the school in the Old City (Pettah), for which the schoolmasters of these schools should be responsible, and to retain the. rest of the copies for use as and when it becomes necessary; and as regards the re-collecting of the already distributed 153 copies of the Four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, to delegate the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz to arrange for this to be done at the next school visit; and it was also decided to respectfully report the same by extract to His Excellency the Governor. Further, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld produced the Tamil. liturgy or Formulary of the Re- formed Faith as revised by him with the assistance of the native revisers, testifying that Their Reverences had found nothing in it which would be contrary to orthodoxy or the language. The meeting therefore approved of the said Liturgy and decided to submit the same with an extract of these proceedings to His Excellency the Governor with a respectful request that it be sent for printing and for publication for the edification of the native inhabitants. There being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President pro tem [ pore ]), H. Phillipsz ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), J.J. Fybrandsz, P. Cornelisz; Elders: J. Bauwer, L.A. Schokman, S. van Lier and P. Blankert; and Deacons: J.A. Van der Voort and J.H. Simons.

Extraordinary meeting of 25th September 1760 (p. 11)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed), H. Philipsz (on duty); and the Elder L.A. Schokman (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that he had summoned this meeting in view of two letters which he had received, on opening which, the first, was found to come from Middelburg dated the 31st of March 1759, containing a reply to our letters of the 29th February 1756 and 17th January 1758, and some details regarding the political and ecclesiastical affairs there; and the second was from Batavia, dated 16th June 1760; regarding the condition of the Churches and the schools in the Indies. Both these letters were duly noted for record and for reply in due course. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer P. Cornelisz; Elders: S.van Lier and P. Blankert; and Deacons: J.A. Van der Voort and J.H. Schutte.

Censura Morum of 1st October 1760 (p. 12)

Absent : the Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed); Elders: L.A. Schokman (on official duties); and Deacons: J.H. Simons, J.H. Schutte, J.B. Teyken and J. de Roth (all on official duties). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 9

After invoking God’s holy name, the President enquired whether the bretheren had any- thing special to report in their commission regarding their house visits, whereupon the Rev. Mr. Keyer who had visited the inner and the outer cities along with the deacon Mr. van der Voort, reported that they had allowed a request for admission as a guest at Holy Communion from the wife of Mr. Wouters who had come over here on a holiday, and that the widow Mrs. Muysenaar, regarding whose conduct they were commissioned to report at the last session, appeared to them to be culpable (lit: under suspicion), whereupon it was resolved to debar her from participating at Holy Communion on the present occasion until such time as she could furnish satisfactory proof to the contrary in regard to the reports against her. Hereupon, those who had already made their declaration of faith were called in, and the three usual questions having been duly answered by them, the meeting proceeded to the Censura Morum. After the minutes of the last meeting were duly read and signed, and after the President had first enquired whether any member had anything to report regarding the teaching and the conduct of any present or absent members of the Consistory. No unfavourable reports were received in this connection, except only the unbecoming conduct of one Amarantia de Costs mentioned at a previous meeting, which matter was allowed to remain in statu quo . Thereafter, the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ names Frans Hendrik Bok, who had recently arrived from Batavia on the ship ’Giessenburg’, came in and presented his credentials which being found satisfactory were handed back to him, and he was dismissed with the blessings of the Session. There also came in Johan Martyn Schoehein, Johannes Barmen Martel, Christiaan Martel and Andreas Root, all of them soldiers, who requested admission to Holy Communion, but as they were unable to produce ’ attestaties ’ that they were members of the Church, they were told that they should be prepared to undergo a provisional examination at the next session. Finally, the Tombokeeper came in and submitted a list of certain persons who desired admission to the Lord’s Table on the declaration of their faith, which was referred to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and Mr. Philipsz for necessary action. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle Church was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld assisted by the elders Van Lier and Schokman and. the deacons Schutte and De Roth; and that in the Wolvendaal Church to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the same elders and the deacons van der Voort and Lachom. The house visits of the Tamil con- gregation was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the deacon Mr. Lachom, and that of the Sinhalese congregation to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the deacon Mr. de Roth. Finally, the Scriba reported that he had duly administered Holy Communion at the outposts of Kalutara, Negombo and Cotta, which was noted, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert and S. van Lier; and the Deacons: J.A. van der Voort and J. Lachom.

Extraordinary meeting of 13th October 1760 (p. 14)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken; Elders: L.A. Schokman and S. van Lier (both occupied on official duties); and Deacon: J.H. Schutte (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 10 name, the President said that he had summoned this meeting in view of a letter which he had received, which on being opened was found to come from Amsterdam, signed by the Rev. Messrs D.P. Noordbeek and R. Perizonins (but undated), which contained as an annexe the synodal acts of North Holland held at Haarlem in the months of July and August 1759, which was noted for record and necessary action, and it was decided to send the Rev. Mr. de Silva an extract of the references to him in the same. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read, approved and signed. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld said that a certain arachchi’s daughter named Jannatie, who was at present in the Leper Asylum, had requested admission to the Lord’s Table on the declaration of her faith; but as she was unable to satisfy (lit: assure) His Reverence that she was baptised, and as she hailed from Matara and there was no opportunity for obtaining proofs, His Reverence wished to know what action he should take in the matter. Having deliberated thereover, it was decided that His Reverence could admit her to both the Sacraments in case she was not in a position to furnish proof of her baptism which she says was administered to her by a Roman Catholic or an itinerating priest. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje requested that as Mrs. van Doorn and the junior merchant Mr. Rossier had forgotten to take their ’ attestaties ’ with them on their departure for Jaffna they be now furnished with the same: which request was allowed, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Meyer, H. Philipsz and Pieter Cornelisz; Elder: P. Blankert; and the deacon Mr. J.A. van der Voort.

Extraordinary meeting of 27th October 1760 (p. 15)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken; Elder: L.A. Schokman; and Deacon J.H. Simons. After invoking God’s holy name, and the Political Commissaris having replied in the negative to the enquiry whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that he had summoned this meeting in view of a letter and an extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received, on reading which, the former was found to come from Galle containing the annual report on the churches and the schools there, and the latter a notification of the annual day of Prayer which read as follows:- ” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon dated Wednesday the 1st October 1760 . And since the time for the departure in their journey to the Fatherland of the return fleet of ships both from the Capital City (Batavia) as well as from here and elsewhere is now approaching, it was accordingly resolved and decided at this meeting that the usual annual day of general Thanksgiving and Prayer be held in all the Company’s comptoirs in this Island and its dependencies on Wednesday the 5th of November next in the following manner: Notification of the day of Prayer for the year 1760 . In order that we may not be totally insensible and even altogether insouciant of our common and special interests, so be it known that we again, not without reason, are bound in a more than ordinary and dutiful manner, to approach the Throne of God’s revered Majesty with humble, thanksgiving and continued prayer. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 11

Indeed, if there ever was a need for arousing ourselves earnestly to this godly Christian duty, it is truly so in these hazardous, dangerous and difficult times, as we journey as it were through the midst of heavy fires fanned by fierce winds, but are nevertheless so wonderfully preserved from the flames, with the enjoyment of the most gratifying blessings (of life), though with uncertainty and anxiety whether we would not soon be destroyed thereby; For who is there who in living memory has ever heard of such a bloody and nearly universal war as has now been raging for some time among the most powerful Princes of Europe and even among our very neighbours and kinsmen, and which has now spread so far that the remaining Powers, and especially our Republic who, more than anyone else, are concerned in the continuation or termination of the same? Which in the meantime has caused no little unrest (i.e. disquietude), and in which we could be more easily involved if it continues longer, and whereby meanwhile such awful and universal slaughter and dreadful ruin could be caused all over the world, and even in our very frontiers in our beloved Fatherland and also in these parts of the neighbouring Coast of Coromandel and elsewhere, so that the entire region and their holdings, with their people fully armed for war, many valiant war heroes fallen (i.e. slain), and thousands, yea tens of thousands brought to (lit: offered for) slaughter, so that the sad (or unpleasant) war cry, the mournful sighs of the afflicted, the pitiful groanings of the woeful and the bitter supplication for vengeance over the innocent blood of the slain, must move even the most petrified minds to feelings of heartbreaking compassion, and could well be heard even in our streets on account of our proximity (lit: nearness). And although all these Judgments are so close at hand and of such a nature that several of our people have already been really affected by their continuance, nevertheless our Republic however with her Colonies have been so wonderfully plucked as a brand out of the fire as it were and continues to be free of this destructive scourge and also been preserved in the precious enjoyment of peace and religion, for which and for the praiseworthy maintenance of the country’s laws and privileges which have been so carefully and unflinchingly administered and preserved by the authorities, we have occasion for jubilation over our prosperity (lit: good fortune) in the enjoyment of such a multitude of other blessings wherewith the Almighty God, in the bountiful dispensation of His mercies, has been pleased to vouchsafe to us above all others even as a special nation, and to render praise to God for the work of His hands. More especially have we here in this dependent possession (lit: land of conquest) special reasons for thanksgiving, as it is a land that has in every way been greatly blessed, for who is there who does not, among other things, see how our navigation (i.e. ships’ sailings), our commerce, and our land revenues (lit: land administration), and also all other interests of the Company have been blessed with the desired prosperity, and who is there who would stand still (lit: stand aside) and not have abundant reasons to acknowledge, with as much self-abasement as Jacob, that he is much too unworthy of all the blessings, bestowed on him? It behoves us therefore to be deeply sensible of all these things, because the enjoyment of all these blessings are received only through the special mercy of God towards us above all others through the postponement (lit: laying aside) of punishment and the never-failing exercise of His long-provoked tolerance; and who is there who does not know how the Lord could suddenly withdraw His favours from us (lit: keep his hands off us) and bestow the same on others who, sighing under His wraith, would turn to Him for forgiveness? While in the meantime, our ingratitude and abominations daily increase more and more (lit: get Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 12

out of hand), and being fattened with JESCHURIM we retaliate, (lit: kick up our heels), forgetting and despising the Rock of our Salvation by our stubborn and vexatious acts of all kinds of godlessness and our increasing spirit of licentiousness, wantonness and wickedness which has so greatly prevailed among us that we have so stubbornly (lit: with such hardness of heart over our sins) imbibed (lit: drunk up like water) ways of unrighteousness, so that our homes are steeped in superstition (Dutch: Obedrag), our tongues (lit: throats) are like an opened tomb, venomous words are on our lips, and our mouths are full of cursings and bitterness, wherefore too there are so few in the land who are faithful, and there is nearly no one who can be found in the country (lit: upon the streets) who does what is right, lest the daughter of Zion (whose glory and majesty too is beginning to be obscured) be relegated as a little hut (Dutch: hutken) in the vineyard and as a little watch-hut in the garden of trouble, on account of which probably the Lord has now again for one year allowed us only barren fig trees; And would the Lord our God withhold His wrath for ever and not visit us according to these our misdeeds? Would He not show vengeance over such a people? Should we not return (lit: turn around) like ’ ADAMA ’ and ” SEBOOM ” so that at least we may not be a mirror and a curse before otter nations as well as our neighbours and kinsmen? (Note: the context of this passage is not quite clear). Surely! He will requite us and pass judgment on us if we do not learn righteousness through admonition (lit: warnings). Indeed the state of affairs of our beloved Fatherland in the midst of such greatly lamentable and continuous troubles, as well as the uncertainty as to how long and how far it may yet spread, should cause the State no little anxiety, besides which mention must also be made, as a fresh matter of tender affection, of the grievous loss which we have sustained through the untimely death of Her Royal Majesty, who had so laudably devoted much concern for the common interest and the welfare of our Republic before Her Majesty’s minor son, our beloved hereditary Stadtholder . Truly our apprehension of further calamities and our acts of unrighteousness are all the more substantiated (lit: founded) by virtue of the fact that the Lord has even already appeared to wield His glittering sword from afar against us, partly through the dreadful wars which are already waging so near to us and almost on the frontiers of our State, and also through the certain threats that we may soon be involved in them, for has God indeed not said this? ”Behold! There cometh a voice of clamour from the North that an evil, yea a people and a great nation shall arise from all sides of the earth to reduce the cities of Judah on the East to a state of desolation (lit: devastation), a people who will have no mercy, but whose voice will be like a raging sea”. At least the beginnings as well as the certain forerunner of God’s wrath and visitation has already fallen upon us, which could, among others, be especially observed both in the protracted (lit: long-lasting) severe drought and the heavy showers of rain which immediately followed it, which inundated the remaining corn in the fields, as well as in the land and infantile disease which has been raging for some time now, where parents have lost their children and children have lost their parents and tender mutual bonds of love have been torn asunder? In fact, death has more defiantly come over to our very doorsteps (lit: climbed up to our windows), they have entered into Palaces to exterminate children in the city and young men on the highways; and besides all this, each one in particular has his individual visitations and vicissitudes in life which must surely befall them on account of their sins, so that the hand (lit: finger) of God is clearly discernible in everything. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 13

Therefore, if we wish to save ourselves in time, we should humbly submit ourselves to God with confession of our sins by declaring a day of public fasting and repentance, not as a mere routine or out of mere custom in order to quell the demands of our consciences against the day of judgment or to acquire merit for ourselves (Note: the context of this clause is not quite clear) or to put on sackcloth and ashes (which is indeed not acceptable to God), but to bow down before Him in penitence and to beseech with contrite hearts (lit: reformation of heart) that He would remove the curse (lit: ban) from us, and free us from the bondage of godlessness, when we shall be enlightened (lit: when the light will shine upon us) like the daybreak, and the glory of God will shine upon us from behind; We have, therefore, in our (Political) Council of Ceylon, being fully conscious of the blessings which each and every one has hitherto enjoyed and the reasons for anxiety (lit: fear) which we now have, once again, according to the annual customs, resolved and decided to declare Wednesday the 5th of the next month of November, as a day of general and obligatory thanksgiving, fasting and prayer throughout all the comptoirs under this Government, so that in all the churches and public meeting-places this day may be observed by a devout celebration of public worship, in order that God’s holy and greatly revered (i.e. redoubtable) name may be praised and glorified with the deepest consciousness of our unworthiness, both of the quiet peace and other heavenly blessings wherewith the interests of the Colonies and the inhabitants of the State generally and of the Company in particular, especially on this outlying Island and its dependencies have hitherto been blessed in the free and undisturbed enjoyment of the public Reformed religion, and especially for the successful and safe journeys (i.e. sailings) of the ships of the return fleet and the lives of their passengers and crews, which have so of ten specially answered (lit: happened according to our own good wishes; and, in short, for all such benefits which have moved us to issue this decree and which each one has especially individually enjoyed; And, on the other hand, with true contrition of heart, fall at the feet of the great Ruler of Heaven and Earth, and with sincere repentance and remorse over our willful and woeful iniquities whereby we have so greatly dishonoured His glorious name, to implore His gracious, forgiving and merciful remission of the same, so that He may not deal with us according to our sins nor reward us according to our acts of unrighteousness, but forgive us even as a father would forgive his children; and preserve us from the dreaded judgment with which He has visited our neighbours and our coreligionists; that He may even now still save (lit: spare) our country and our people which He has so long loved and preserved even in the most pitiable circumstances even as a ” MAGORE MITSABBILEH ” (?) (in fear of ransom) for His great name for His sacred Zion, city and temple which He has in the midst of us; that we therefore may continue to enjoy His blessings and peace, and that no rumours of war may terrify us; that the State of the Netherlands in general and the Company in particular may in the long run and for the length of days continue to be and remain the special object of God’s favour, an ornament of the world, and a terror to all those who envy us; that to this end all daring and enterprising attacks of Achitophels may be frustrated, that the warring Potentates in Europe may be led to thoughts of peace, that swords may be turned (lit: beaten) into spades and spears into sickles, and that this our land nay yield its regular revenues, so that there may be bread in plenty to eat and seed for sowing, that our finances may increase, our commerce prosper, and above all that our navigation, trade and agriculture may more and more prosper for the welfare of the Company and her good inhabitants; Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 14

And we must also implore God’s gracious blessings on our sailing-ships, both here as well as elsewhere, especially for the costly cargoes which are about to depart (i.e. sail; both from here as well as from Batavia, Bengal and China in the present latter half and in the coming first half year, so that everyone may, with God’s gracious protection and under the guidance of His holy angels, happily and prosperously arrive at their respective destinations, free from wreck by rocks or sands and the dangers of the sea, to the glory of God’s holy name and the joy of all those who have an interest therein; And we should, especially continue steadfastly in earnest prayer for the great power which God has been pleased to bestow upon us as the visible instruments for the good progress and maintenance of the country’s and the Church’s welfare; that our loving God may be pleased to bestow His wisdom on all our deliberations and to prosper all our undertakings with the desired success, and that He may bless our persons with His holiness and our homes with all prosperity; and we should especially also pray for the personal protection and the upbringing of His Royal Highness bur beloved hereditary Stadtholder , that this beloved Prince may, like Samuel, being early devoted to the Lord our God, ere long lead our Netherlands (land of) Israel in the most excellent footprints of his ancestors, so that it may like a firm rock (lit: a crown of stone) serve as a banner (i.e. standard) in Emmanuel’s land; And further, it would also be most fitting that we should pray for those unfortunate lands which are, now going through the massacres of war and are thus groaning under the most pitiful visitations, that judgment may be mitigated for them and that they may be saved of their anxieties; And, finally, we should also pray generally for the Protestant way of life throughout the whole world, that it may be preserved in its hallowed privileges and further strengthened against all (acts of) oppression; and especially for the prosperity of the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands, here and elsewhere, that they may increase more and more in devout professors (lit: leaders) and ride triumphantly on the face (lit: the heights) of the earth, and that those who are grounded in that faith may flourish like the palm trees, and the cedars of Lebanon; Wherefore then, it shall be duly announced from the pulpit on the preceding Sunday being the 2nd, in all the churches under this Government and on the following Monday from the public highways ,in the presence of the Fiscal and two Commissioners of the Court of Justice, in order that the said prescribed day of Thanksgiving, Fasting and Prayer may be fittingly and devoutly celebrated both in the morning as well as in the afternoon, and that all work and business should cease and be suspended, upon such penalties as have been formerly prescribed therefore in the placcaats . (Below): Colombo the 1st day of October 1760. By order of His Excellency Jan Schreuder, Councillor Extraordinary of Netherlands India, Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon and its dependencies. (Signed): W. Van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. Both the above documents were noted for information, and the latter (i.e. the extract of the Political Council resolution regarding the day of thanksgiving, fastinf and prayer) was noted for necessary compliance; after which the minutes of the last meeting were read and signed. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld tabled the Portuguese ’Cartilha’ or Liturgy which was handed over to him some time ago for revision, and reported that His Excellency the Governor did not consider it to be so necessary to print the same, as when such books are required for the use of the Portuguese congregation, they could in fact be obtained from the Warehouse or from Batavia; wherefore it was decided to deposit (lit: put away) the said Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 15 book in the Church cupboard; Further, the credentials of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Frans Myer who had recently arrived here on the supply ship ’Botch en Hoven’ were tabled by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, and on being found satisfactory, the Scriba was directed to hand them back to him. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. V.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Meyer, Pieter Cornelisz; Elders: S. van Lier and P. Blankert; and Deacon: J.A. van der Voort.

Extraordinary meeting of 6th November 1760 (p. 22)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken (indisposed), the Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: L.A. Schokman; and Deacon: J.H. Schutte (all on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaries having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative; The President then said that he had summoned this meeting in view of an extract which he had received of a Political Council resolution, which read as follows: ” Extract of a resolution of the Council of Ceylon dated Wednesday the 29th of October; 1760 . And since Their Excellencies (i.e. the Governor and the Council at Batavia) in their respected letter of the 12th September last have been pleased to order that transport to Cochin be provided to one of the Predikants who had recently arrived here, in order to learn the Portuguese language there and to serve in the meanwhile as Predikant of the Dutch congregation as successor to the present Predikant of the said commandment (i.e. Cochin), the Rev. Mr. Sezilles, whom Their Excellencies have been pleased to allow to come over to serve the Portuguese congregation here, to be stationed wherever it is deemed to be most useful; therefore, it is also accordingly resolved at this meeting to allow the Predikant who has not yet been allotted a charge here, namely the Rev. Pieter Cornelisz, to leave for Cochin at the first available opportunity for the aforesaid purpose, and to enquire from the Church Consistory of this City where the said Rev. Mr. Sezilles could best be stationed in order to comply with Their Excellencies, intention, namely, so that he may most usefully serve the congregation in the Portuguese language. (Below): Certified by: C. Janssen, sworn clerk”. Which having been read out, the information contained therein concerning the Rev. Mr. Cornelisz was noted for information, and he (Mr. Cornelisz) was congratulated on behalf of all those who were present by the President, who wished him God’s richest blessings over his person and especially over the responsible task which he was ere long to embark on; And proceeding thereafter to comply with the respected intention of our Government conveyed in the said extract in regard to the Rev. Mr. Sezilles, after careful consideration, it was deemed advisable that, as the Rev. bretheren at Jaffna had repeatedly made mention in their annual reports on their Churches and schools there of a Portuguese congregation who were, served only by a single Catechist (Du. Voorlezer ), and that here (in Colombo) there was really no Portuguese congregation as yet, that the services of the Rev. Mr. Sezilles could therefore be more usefully and fittingly employed at that place (i.e. Jaffna), but that this recommendation be respectfully submitted for the wiser judgment and orders of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 16

Government, and it was decided to report accordingly to our illustrious Governor together with an extract of these proceedings. Thereafter, the minutes having been read and signed, the Rev. Mr. Meyer undertook to prepare (i.e. draft) the letters to the Fatherland for the Rev. Mr. Fybrands whose turn it was to do so this year, since the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje had asked to be excused and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld was unable to undertake this task for the reasons mentioned at the session of the 22nd of September; and furthermore, on the enquiry being made by the President as to what matters should be reported, it was unanimously agreed to report in the usual manner giving details of the state and the condition of the churches and the schools in this Island. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld requested that he may be allowed the use of a Tamil dictionary from the Church cupboard; which request was allowed on the condition however that there were two similar copies available and that His Excellency the Governor had no objection to the same. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); J.J. Meyer, S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: F. Blankert; and Deacons: J.A. van der Voort and J.H. Simons,

Extraordinary meeting of 23rd November 1760 (p. 24)

Absent: The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Fybrands (at Tutucorin), H. Philipsz (indisposed); Elders: L.A. Schokman (on official duties) and S. Van Lier (indisposed) After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris being asked if he had any report to make on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The President then said that he had summoned this meeting in view of a letter which he had received, and which, on being opened and read, was found to be addressed to this Consistory by the Classes of Delft Delfsland and Schieland, dated at Hillegondsberg the 10th of September 1759, and signed by the Rev. Joh. Martin Hoffman as Deputy of the said Classes, and containing the synodal acts of South Holland held at Briel in the month of ... which it was decided to circulate as usual and to file it of record for reply in due course. Thereafter the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld enquired whether it would not be appropriate to make some further mention this year in the letters to the Fatherland about the completed and al- ready printed edition of the New Testament in the Tamil language, that more attention may be devoted than in the past years to extending and improving on the said work of translation on a satisfactory, footing; whereupon the Rev. bretheren of this Consistory considered it advisable that the attention of Their High Mightinesses (i.e. the Lords’ Seventeen or Direc- tors of the East India Company in Holland) be drawn to the preface to the said translation work and further that what is lacking therein may be supplemented in the letters ( n.b . the context of this clause is not quite clear as the script is almost illegible owing to the difficulty of deciphering the microscopic handwriting in the original text). The President also reported in regard to the directions given to him at the last session concerning the Tamil dictionary that H.E. the Governor had no objection to one copy of a Tamil and Dutch dictionary being given over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld as requested by him, provided that two such copies were available in our Church cupboard. Further regarding the request of the Rev. Bretheren of the Synod of South Holland in their letters mentioned above that their compliments be conveyed on their behalf to our illustrious Governor, it was resolved that this be done by the President and the Scriba as representatives Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 17

of this Consistory in the most respectful and appropriate manner. The meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), S.A. Bronsveld, P. Cornelisz; Elder: P. Blankert; and Deacons: J.A. van der Voort, J.H. Schutte and J.H. Simons.

Extraordinary meeting of 12th December 1760 (p. 25)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken, J.J. Fybrands (at Tutucorin); Elder: L.A. Schokman (on official duties); Deacons: J.A. van der Voort and J.H. Simons. The meeting was opened with prayer. The President said that he had convened this meeting at the request of the Political Commissaris, who there upon tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution and some other papers, all of which were read and were, word for word, as recorded below: ”1. Extract of a resolution of the Council of Ceylon dated Friday the 5th of December 1760. Thereafter the following memorandum (lit: remonstrance) was tabled by His Excellency the Governor and read: To the Members of the Political Council, Your Honours will not be unaware of the reports which I (the undersigned) have made from time to time concerning the Seminary here, and of the directions which I have received in the matter from the Consistory in order to achieve the desired object of maintaining the same at less expense and on a more satisfactory footing (lit: with more success). For, when discussing the Secret resolution of the 4th of August 1758 regarding measures for the spread of religion in general and making it more active, I suggested, in regard to the Seminary particularly, that the Consistory do consider whether, in view of the present altered circumstances of the times, it would not be appropriate and necessary in the best interests of the Church and the greater benefit of the people, to revert again to the resolution of (the Political Council of) Ceylon of the 21st of November 1739 to appoint only Proponents from the most capable apprentices, in order to instruct and evangelise (lit: bring over to us) the native inhabitant in a more convenient manner and with less expense to the Honourable Company in the matter of transfers and travelling costs, and also further that the others (i.e. remaining apprentices) be employed as schoolmasters chiefs of Korales and Pattus and Interpreters according to their individual preference and fitness. All this was indeed considered by the Church Consistory after obtaining the advice of their colleagues at Jaffna, Galle and Trincomalee at its meeting on the 2nd of July 1759 and was duly approved (lit. accepted) by this Consistory on the 29th of the same month, when (lit: on which occasion) I (the undersigned) undertook to give my attention to the same and to report thereon to the Consistory. But I considered further that the lessons as well as the mode of instruction in particular should, in view of that project undergo much change (lit: be greatly amended) and placed on a sounder and reproachless footing in order to avoid all arbitrariness, wherefore I reported accordingly on the 24th September 1759 to this Consistory and at the same time recommended that the present mode of instruction be adopted by the Consistory, I undertook to prepare from the same a course of lessons that would best comply with the intended project which was approved by the Consistory at its session on the 19th of February; and thus everything would have been settled if I had not meanwhile found, after more Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 18

careful investigation, the real intention of the original motive of the Institution and the subsequent progress and the present state of the Seminary, that such arrangements were not in themselves solely sufficient to achieve the real object more conveniently and with less expense; For it is apparent that the Honourable Company, soon after this Island was conquered in war from the Portuguese, had already been alive and given its attention both to the propagation of the Christian religion among the native inhabitants in general as well as to the extension of our Reformed religion in particular, and that for this purpose some of the Dutch Predikants should at firstly learn the Tamil and the Sinhalese languages, so that when they are efficient in the same they could travel everywhere in the country to get acquainted (lit: to have common intercourse) with the people, and by teaching (i.e . instructing) them, and admonishing them and preaching to them in their own language, to persuade them, so as on the one hand to bring them over from heathenism to Christianity and on the other hand, to win over to our fold several of the native inhabitants who, during the administration of the Portuguese, went over to the Roman Catholic faith through the activities of the Romish priests, missionaries and their subtle tactics. But since our Predikants could not so suddenly and perfectly learn these difficult languages of the country, or having once learnt them in the course of time were unable to assimilate and get accustomed to the strange customs and manners and ways of life and intercourse of the native inhabitant, which seemed to be nevertheless necessary for achieving the object in view, no progress was therefore apparent after the lapse of a period of 30 years; The Hon. Commissioner General Mr. Van Rheeden, who visited (lit: was present at) Jaffna in the year 1690, remarked this, and realising that if the native inhabitant was instructed in his own language by people of his own nationality, it would be easier to bring them over to us, recommended to the Consistory at that place in certain proposals of the 11th of January that year, that twenty four Tamil youths above eight years of age and belonging to the respectable castes should be taught to read and write in a specially allotted institution (lit: boarding house) like a training school or Seminary by a Dutch teacher under the supervision of a Predikant , so that from this Seminary native schoolmasters or, as the Honourable Directors of the Company in their letter of the 3rd of November 1703 have expressed themselves, ’ Ziekentroosters ’ (lit: Comforters of the sick or Catechists) of the country as well as a type (lit: sort) of native Proponent and even native Predikants could be trained; And the Consistory at Jaffna, having accordingly considered this to be the most salutary and best measure, such a training school was first established at that place; And in the same manner here in Colombo too such a Seminary for the Sinhalese youth (in view of the fact that Sinhalese is the predominant language here as Tamil is at Jaffna) was subsequently established by the then Governor Mr. Van Rheede, and special instructions for the same were prescribed dated the 6th of April 1696; And subsequently the original proposals and the last named (set of) instructions both regarding the Jaffna as well as the Colombo Seminary was greatly amplified on the 2nd of March 1709 in several aspects by His Excellency Governor Becker; and it was yet again further revised (lit: renewed) in certain aspects on the 4th of May 1717 in regard to the general methods of instruction he direction (i.e. training) of those who were more advanced by His Excellency Governor Rumph, during whose administration the pupils were subsequently, according to the decision of the Political Council of the 17th of November 1722, brought Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 19 over to the Colombo Seminary in order that they may be educated (lit: instructed) under one Rector in one training school as formerly, on which footing this Seminary then catered for both the Tamils as well as the Sinhalese youth and was therefore commonly know as the Tamil or Sinhalese Seminary; And this original institution appeared to be properly regulated in every respect according to the nature of native Christianity which alone it was intended to cater for; For the natives here being only Tamils and Sinhalese no others were thus admitted than Tamils or Sinhalese, who, having these languages as their mother-tongue had no need to learn them and thus by their birth as well as their upbringing were acquainted with (lit: used to) the customs, manners and ways of life of these people, so that having been taken at their best, they had nothing new or foreign (lit: strange) to learn except the Dutch language in order to be able to comprehend (or understand) the instruction of the Predikants and the schoolmasters in the truths of religion and what was necessary therefor, in order that they may be able to impart the same sir countrymen; for which reasons they, both in view of their youth as well as by their daily hearing and speaking the Dutch language and their attendance at the school instruction, would be sufficiently all the more capable in course of time of serving us as native schoolmasters and of leading (or bringing up) these simple folk in the right way, since much learning was not so necessary as a sound knowledge of the common truths, so that when these Seminarians leave the training school they could be not only confidently employed as schoolmasters but also, with further experience and diligence in their work, be so advanced as to be able to impart a reasonable degree of knowledge even to the adults besides their school children by means of edifying discourses with them, so that they (i.e. the Seminarians) may in course of time be advanced (i.e. promoted) as a native Proponents and even as native Predikants , being in no way subject to the discipline and the authority of the School Board like the several native Proponents and schoolmasters who have hitherto been recruited from this seminary, some of the former of whom are still alive; It must be admitted however that these arrangements and even more so the foregoing are not devoid of inconveniences, and that therefore no blame should at the same time be imputed to the institution, but only to those who serve as representatives (lit: the instruments) of the same; In fact Their Excellencies (i.e. the Governor General and the Council of the Indies) have clearly indicated this in their letter from Batavia dated the 22nd of June 1705 when they had to express their displeasure over the negligence (lit: inattention) of the Rector and the effrontery (i.e. wantonness) of the 19 students; And at a somewhat later period too, there was a separate admission by the former Rector Petrus Kalden in connection with the decision of this Government of the 26th of October 1736 asking for a written report inter alia on the condition of the Seminary and the inconveniences which may tend to thwart (or foil) its desired success, and on the most suitable means of improving the same, in reply to which the said Rector declared in writing that he was not aware of any inconveniences such as the lack of Interpreters and the bad behaviour of the Dutch schoolmasters, and a little further (he remarked) that he considered that there was no better means of improving matters than by demoting the habitually drunken schoolmaster and appointing some one else in his place and by the training of good and capable interpreters; Indeed these were no small (lit: minor) inconveniences, since on the one hand the school- master is the person who is responsible for the original and real fundamentals (of instruction) Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 20

without which the Rector cannot further educate the students with any hope of success, and on the other hand, in regard to the interpreters whose capability (i.e. fitness) was so es- sential, as the schoolmasters have knowledge of Tamil or Sinhalese and the pupils do not understand Dutch, and that therefore at the outset the responsibility for instruction prin- cipally devolved on proper interpretation, so that those who taught and those who learnt could correctly understand each other; And in view of such inconveniences the Church has had to contend (lit: put up) more than anything else with the indolence and ignorance of the pupils, as will be seen from the resolutions and the reports of the School Board of those times, in which they consistently complain over the ignorance, and more so over the indolence of the Church and School officials; Wherefore then, His Excellency the Governor Van Imhoff made certain amendments in this respect as set out in the Ceylon (Government) resolutions of the 16th October 1736, 4th January and 11th December 1737, and especially in the resolution of the 21st November 1739, viz:- 1. To divide the number of 24 pupils into three, instead of two, batches, namely, on third of Tamils, one third of Sinhalese and one third of Mixties; 2. To instruct these three batches, instead of in Dutch only, also in the Latin, Greek and Hebrew languages, and also that the mixties should thoroughly learn one of the two languages of Tamil or Sinhalese (while in the meantime the Predikant exercises a general supervision over them in his capacity as Rector after they have first been instructed by a co-Rector and thereafter by a Preceptor, for which the services of a Hebrew Preceptor have now for some years been available); 3. And finally, that two of the most capable students of the Seminary be sent out to Holland to attend the High School there at the expense of the Honourable Company for a further period of two years after they have reached a sufficient degree of perfection here either in the Tamil or in the Sinhalese language and also received the necessary knowledge in the Latin, Greek and Hebrew languages as well as in Theology, in order that they may eventually come out here as Proponents , and in course of time, serve the Church and the congregations as Predikants in the cities if necessary, but more especially in the country areas; These further arrangements were so different to those which previously existed, and were also so far advanced (lit: extensive) in nature, being established on the same footing as in the Fatherland, but whether the original and real object has been better achieved than before (lit: elsewise) does not appear to be confirmed by experience; For it is well known, among other matters, that in place of the requirement that the students, according to the said arrangements , should in the first instance acquire in the Seminary here the necessary knowledge both in the Latin, Greek and Hebrew languages as well as in Theology and in in the case of the mixties a good and thorough knowledge of the Tamil or the Sinhalese language, before they are sent out to Holland to come but here as Proponents only after having attended the High School there for a period of not more than two years, on the contrary, some of them who have been altogether inefficient in the Tamil or the Sinhalese language, and still others who had a very scanty knowledge of the learned languages were sent out to Holland, who had to be firstly privately instructed in the Latin language before they were in a position to understand the Professors, besides which most of Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 21 them, having been maintained at the Academy at the expense of the Honourable Company for so long as three to four years, and some even longer, have all, without any exception, come out here not as Proponents but as Predikants and minister in our Churches instead of serving in the country areas; whereby it seems to evident (lit: one has come to the conclusion) that this their acquired status (lit: character) of ’ Predikant ’ although they are Tamils or Sinhalese by birth, does not permit them to submit (i.e. precludes them from submitting) themselves to a manner and way of life which is so essential for the achievement of our object, namely, that they should especially daily associate themselves (lit: keep company) with the native inhabitants, and in a certain way, through a humble mode of living, make themselves with these people in order to win them over to our religion by kindly words and exemplary behaviour, for as regards preaching, that which is conducted on Sunday forenoons in the outer Church (i.e. Church in the Pettah or outer city) in Tamil and in Sinhalese can hardly make any impression since it is seldom that any others attend the same except those few Tamils or Sinhalese who have already received some instruction in our in our religion, and besides this, it can hardly be expected that heathen and Roman Catholic inhabitants will come on their own from such distant places in the countryside to hear about our religion unless they are visited, won over and persuaded beforehand by continuous (i.e. regular) instruction all over in the countryside or in their dwelling-places or elsewhere; While in the meantime, through this general (plan of) sending out of Seminarians to Europe, we in this land are deprived of persons who, after receiving instruction and being more or less trained and prepared to serve us, if not as Proponents , at least as poor schoolmasters or even as capable Chiefs of the Corles and Patrus, or as ( N.B . the next page or pages of the text appear to be missing in the minute book). Extract of a latter dated 31st July 1727 from Batavia to Colombo (p. 31) Further, we are pleased to note with satisfaction that the annual examination of the Tamil and Sinhalese students was held in the presence of the Governor and the Council, and that it was observed that these pupils were well advanced in their studies, which we too regard to be most satisfactory in view of the further intention of His Excellency and the Council to attend personally at the annual examination in order to encourage the students at the Seminary, as Rector of which (Seminary) Your Excellencies have appointed as the most suitable person the Rev. Petrus Kalden in place of the late Predikant Petrus Sinjeu, and sent down to Galle in his place the Rev. Bartholomeus Teyken; and we are also pleased to note that Your Excellencies, in compliance with the decision of 1st November 1726, have handed over to the Church Consistory their letter from the Fatherland after prior reading and sealing of the same at their request, and also issued the proclamation of the newly-elected Elders and Deacons which, in terms of the resolution of the 24th August, was postponed until the arrival of the Governor Petrus Vuyst, and also delivered to the Church Consistory at Colombo copies of the definite draft Church Order framed in the year 1671 at Colombo for the Ceylon Churches and ratified by us here by our letter of the 24th August 1797 for the information of the Predikants to regulate (lit: bind) them in the jurisdiction (lit: duties) of their calling and behaviour; but in regard to the (case of) the Proponent Adolph Cramer, who was examined for appointment as Predikant in accordance with the order made by the Lords Superiors (the Directors of the East India Company in Holland) in consequence of the receipt of the comments submitted in Your Excellency’s letter of the 31st of January this year that he was unable to deliver his proof-sermon without reference to notes (lit: a book) and had already shown poor progress Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 22 according to the other letters (sent by Your Excellencies) to our Lords Superiors dated the 14th September 1715 and 21st April 1725, and Your Excellencies therefore, in your resolution of the 19th November were obliged not only to provisionally decline to allow the requested proclamation of his appointment as Predikant and to inform us for our final orders thereon of his frugal and poor demeanour which rendered him unworthy of the position and salary of a Predikant , we shall not hesitate (lit: demur) rather to await the orders of our Lords Superiors, to whom Your Excellencies have already inter alia furnished the required information in Your Excellencies’ aforementioned Letter of the 22nd November and have, to our satisfaction, promised Their Honours in Your Excellencies’ letter to them dated the 21st of July 1725 to comply in the future with the usual solemnities of the annual examination at the Seminary concerning Predikants as already followed (lit: practised) in the year 1723, wherefore we too accordingly shall hope for (lit: await) the fulfilment of this promise, and also that the Predikants will, in the future, more assiduously discharge the functions of their calling as has hitherto appeared to have been done, considering that out of a total number of 265.992 native Christians only very few of them are (Church) members. (Below): Certified by D. van Damast Limberger, provisional 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin): Read by J.H. Muller and collated by D.A. Muller. Resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of the 13th March to the 3rd of April 1668 regarding certain Church matters . After invoking God’s holy name, it was resolved to ask the bretheren Predikants to assemble one morning in the forenoon to be informed by the Political Commissaris as follows, namely:- Firstly, to convey to them the joy and satisfaction of the Governor and the Council that, through the grace of God, they have the means and the opportunity once again to meet in the present mariner, to restore and revive again whatever is lacking (lit: fallen into disuse) and that His Excellency the Governor and the Council are always ready and willing to assist Their Reverences in whatever ways they may deem to be necessary, and further tat the Political Commissaris is pleased to make the following proposals: Extract of a letter from Batavia to Colombo dated the 24th August 1707 (p. 32) While it appears from the foregoing that the draft Church orders mentioned Your Honours letter of the 19th September, and now once again from your letter of the 22nd February this year it seems that these must be the orders which were sent hither and thither between this place and the Fatherland to our Principals there, and their reply that Your Honours being not are of their approval or otherwise, have scrutinised and searched through the series of correspondence have not been able to find a record anywhere of any final order having been made in regard to the same; wherefore it seems that the benefit which should have been derived thereby for establishing and strengthening mutual harmony between the Government and the Church authorities could not be achieved, which, on the contrary, should always be greatly valued and appreciated. (Below): Certified by D. van Damast van Limberger. (In the margin): Read by J.K. Muller and collated by D.A. Muller. (NB. The context of the above is not quite clear owing to the difficulty in deciphering the original script which is mutilated by corrosion). Extract of a resolution of the Political Council at Colombo on the forenoon of Friday the 1st of November 1726 . Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 23

The following memorandum from the bretheren of the Church Consistory of this City dated the 17th of October last, containing a request that the letters which they send annu- ally to the Fatherland be not sent under ordinary cover (Dutch: cachet) as has been done before, but forwarded to the Netherlands for delivery there under sealed cover, it is there- fore unanimously resolved, considering that this does not appear to contravene the former practice which has been in force since the year 1668, to accommodate Their Reverences in a matter which seems to have caused offence in regard to a point of honour, and to permit Their Reverences as hitherto to send their letters under closed and sealed cover for trans- mission to the Fatherland along with the Company’s papers, but that, on the other hand, this should not give occasion for any infraction of (lit: encroachment on) the respect and submission with which the Consistory is at all times obliged to pay to the Government, and consequently, in order to bind them to such due respect, and for further clarification and elucidation of this delicate matter, it is also decided (lit: understood) that the said closed delivery of the Consistory letters contrary to the resolution of this Council of the 25th of January this year in no way infringes on or affects the right conferred by articles 29 and 30 of the draft Church Orders for the Ceylon churches on the Government and especially on the Governor or Commander at the time, to be furnished on (their) request with complete and properly certified extracts of the same and of all other letters, acts and decisions of the Church Consistory for their consideration, and if necessary for their deliberation and approval with the advice of the Council, before they are sent out or put into effect, J after which action is taken, and not earlier the Consistory letters may be closed and delivered for further transmission; Wherefore too, in order to avoid any confusion or. disagreement arising in this connection in the course of time, it was deemed to be especially necessary to forward to the Consistory here certified copies of the aforesaid draft Church Orders of the year 1671 as duly confirmed by Their Excellencies at Batavia by their letter dated the 24th of August 1707, so that (in case they may not yet be in possession of such draft Church orders) they may be given effect to in due course, since they contain various salutary measures, the contin- ued attention to and regular observance of which has been deemed to be absolutely essential; and it was thereafter also decided, in regard to Their Reverence’s second request, in order to avoid further inconveniences, to proceed with the issue of the proclamation regarding the newly-elected Elders, the Lieut. Hendrik Gabriel (Dykman) and the Junior merchant Cor- nells Comans de Vriest and the Deacons: the bookkeeper Thobias (...) and *(the steward Abraham Tielmans) and also that in regard to the lastnamed person mentioned in the letter of the Predikant Bartholomeus Teyken and incorporated in the said resolution, on further consideration, nothing of an essential or fundamental nature arises. (Below): Certified By W. van Damast Limberger, provl. 1st sworn clerk; (In the margin): Head by J.H. Muller and collated by D.A. Muller. (N.B. It is not quite clear whether the portion marked (*) above is a part of the foregoing extract. The pages in the text numbered 31 et seq. in the minute book appear to have been incorrectly arranged in binding, and one or more pages of the text of the minutes of this meeting appear to be missing. This has caused some confusion and difficulty in the correct rendering of the translations. What follows below appears to be a continuation of some part of the missing record). That a people cannot easily be won over as a particular nationality, and therefore, for the better progress of native Christianity, it seems to be necessary to place the Seminarians as Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 24 little as possible in circumstances which would estrange them from their ancestral customs and ways of life and (adapt them) to those which Europeans are accustomed to, even as the work of the European Predikants who were employed at the beginning for the propagation of our religion during a period of 30 years were found to to be unproductive (lit: fruitless), chiefly because they found it difficult to adapt themselves to the strange customs and manners of the native inhabitants. That the same appears to be the case in regard to language, as is apparent in the case of these Predikants , because for purposes of interpretation into the language of the learner they have to depend on (lit: use the services of) persons other than those who possess a thorough knowledge of the Tamil or Sinhalese languages as their mother tongue; That the study of the socalled basis, languages of Greek and Hebrew, although they are considered to be necessary elsewhere (i.e. in other places), however, considering the particular object aimed at here (namely to impart to the native inhabitant a sound and clear idea of our religion) could very well be dispensed with without any disadvantages (lit: harm); That the Latin language too, considering the pupils and their destined careers, is not necessary, since those cogent reasons do not exist here which render the study of this language in Europe and the Fatherland as a ’must’ as it were, and according to which Latin was taught not so much in order to learn to read and write the mother-tongue thereby as to be able to understand the lectures (lit: lessons) of the Professors and to be able to read the literary works written in that language; That it would be sufficient therefore if the Seminarians are instructed only in such a language as would be necessary for them to (be able to) understand their teachers, or in order to be able to converse (lit: express themselves) reasonably and intelligibly at any time in their calling in their country, for the former of which purposes no other than the Dutch, and for the latter the Tamil and Sinhalese languages are really necessary; That of these the Dutch language must be regarded as the literary language here, and it also has the advantage of being able to be learnt more easily than Latin, as the former is a ’living’ whereas the latter is a ’dead’ language; That the primary (lit: foremost) requirement in respect of the instruction of the Seminarians particularly consists in their being well grounded in the fundamentals of religion and more or less fitted (i.e. trained) to conduct their affairs in a good and orderly manner; And finally, that all this could quite easily be done if the Seminary were brought back once again to the same footing on which it was originally established and maintained, with this exception only, viz: that native chiefs and interpreters should also be trained there besides the prescribed regular (probably: resident) students, and that the children of respectable Tamils and Sinhalese should also be admitted free for instruction only and no more (i.e. without board or lodging). These then are my (i.e. the undersigned’s) further proposals which I submit herewith as the measures which I consider to be necessary to administer the Seminary with more success and with less expense in order to fulfill (i.e. comply with) the original and real object of its institution, and which I could not neglect (i.e. fail) to present to Tour Honours, in order that you may make your observations thereon with the advice of the Consistory on these proposals, as well as on the mode of instruction imparted according to previous instructions thereanent, namely: whether the same could continue to be followed without any alterations or amplifications on the transfer (i.e. shifting) of the Seminary, and if not, that Their Reverences should furnish this Council as early as possible with a plan of lessons Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 25

(i.e. lectures), in order that the instructions may be amended and regulated accordingly and put into effect. (Below): Colombo, 5th December 1760. Signed: J. Schreuder. And although the members unanimously declared that they were unable to add anything to the proposals submitted nor suggest any deletions therefrom, but on the contrary were fully convinced of the soundness (lit: truth) of the proposals and the need for putting His. Excellency’s plan into effect, it was however unanimously resolved to obtain the views (lit: advice) of the Consistory of this City too thereon and also on the mode of, instruction which Their Reverences deem to be, most suitable in order to meet (i.e. comply with) the laudable intentions of His Excellency the Governor regarding the proposed changes in the Seminary or Training School here. (Below): Certified by Johannes de Vos, sworn clerk. Extract of the rules for the Seminary dated 6th April 1696 (p. 34) The schoolmasters allotted for this work shall consist of two persons, namely a Dutchman and a local citizen. The said schoolmasters should both be present in the school throughout the day, viz: in the forenoons and in the afternoons, beginning at 8 a.m. in the morning till 11 a.m. in the forenoon and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the afternoons. In the forenoon, the children shall be taught the Dutch and in the afternoon the Sinhalese language. The Dutch schoolmaster should clearly say and pronounce each single letter of the A.B.C. (i.e. the alphabet) until such time as the pupils could correctly read and repeat them, and also the letters of various printed matter. The children shall write each letter set for study any day (lit: on one or other day) on olas in order to acquaint themselves with the character (lit: figure) and also the pronunciation of the same. The schoolmaster should write out A.B.C. on a piece of paper for each child and make him write the letters with a metal nib (probably a ’stylus’) as the natives are accustomed to do. When the children have thoroughly learnt all the letters so that on seeing them they could promptly repeat (lit: name) and write them, they should be taught the syllables in the same manner and as the letters are repeated in each syllable which they have learnt, they shall be made to write out on an ola the A.B.C. (i.e. alphabet) as dictated. When they have thoroughly learnt to read and write most of the syllables and the difficult ones, they shall proceed to learn the words, which we know that children should be taught in a particular order, as with the letters and syllables; And in order that the teaching of these words may be more perfectly done, the words of the prayers could be successively used for the purpose, as for example, in the first: instance when the children are thus far advanced, the words of the Lord’s Prayer (lit: Our Father) etc., since one has to especially observe and ascertain (lit: find out by practice) how the children could simply and in a short time learn, without following the methods practised in our Dutch schools, because they, being older, possess a greater degree of memory and understanding than our children who are generally very foolishly sent to school in their third or fourth year of age; But since it is known that the tongue (i.e. speech) of the native inhabitant (more so in the case of the Tamils than the Sinhalese) is normally adapted and accustomed to an entirely different pronunciation to that of ours, the schoolmasters must therefore take care especially not to reprove them (i.e. to speak to them without reproof) The same method for studying Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 26

the Dutch language could also be used with the same result in learning the Sinhalese language, viz: that the same letters, syllables and words which they learn in the Dutch language in the mornings should be read out, pronounced and written in the afternoons in the Sinhalese language so that the children could learn to express themselves and translate well in both languages; This is why it is considered necessary that both the schoolmasters should be present throughout so that on their part they may observe the errors and faults of their pupils. What has been learnt on the first day should be repeated on the second day and read out either individually or collectively (lit: in a batch or row) so that it could be ascertained which of them have done (lit: answered) best, so that they could be given preference of position above the others and given the first places in the class, which will give them respect and regard by the others. If it is found (lit: happens) that any of them are not diligent enough or commit other misdemeanours which merit punishment, they should be given such punishment, but on this condition, viz: that it should be administered with much prudence so that the children may not become indifferent or listless (i.e. low-spirited) through such caning and not to make them tend to lapse into audacious (lit: fearless) and disrespectful ways without punishment; And in order to avoid any scandal, abuse or instances of lack of discipline and order in the eyes of these young folk, we deem it to be particularly necessary that no members of the households of the schoolmsters or the Warden (of the school), whether they be children, servants (lit: slavas) or others should hold conversation, associate or mingle with the school- children, but that they (i.e. the school-children) should always might an day remain apart (i.e. aloof) and among themselves (lit: together with each other) whether in the school or outside it. (In the margin): Collated by F.B. Giffenig. Further rule and order to be observed, enforced and administered for the Colombo Semi- nary and the students and pupils therein, according to each one’s age and aptitude, which should be put into effect in their several aspects. Since it is definitely the essential aim of the laudable institution (i.e. establishment) of Seminaries in this Island, inter alia , and has been infallibly so in the past and even at the present time, to maintain the native pupils therein discriminately and to separate them from others for purposes of discipline, and in the nomination (i.e. selection) of the school- children or those recruits who desire to acquire a state of civilized culture, and of students who by their upbringing have shown diligence and a desire to relinquish their stupid (lit: silly) ways and attain a degree of superior and sounder culture ... (n.b. the here is illegible owing to damage on the paper), and be weaned from their childish ways caused by their natural tendencies and also to civilize them in their heathen environment (lit: ways of life), and further to accustom such bling strangers to the godly-privileges of the Training School and to devout instruction (i.e. training in piety), it therefore goes without saying that the impression which may recently have been created in this respect, probably through a wrong understanding based on (i.e. caused by) the reports of ignorant supervisors as well as others must speedily be remedied and removed, and as those who by God’s grace, through their diligence and good efforts (lit: exertions) have so far advanced that they may be deemed worthy to bear the name of students and at the same time to be trained by means of filial care (lit: laws) and compulsory places of abode (i.e. boarding places), and also by means of a definite plan of instruction made at the time of the establishment of the said institution, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 27

we have however not had the opportunity (lit: good fortune) to make sure that among the foolish (lit: blind and heathen) character of the Ceylonese people persons could always be found who could really be considered to be worthy of (instruction in) most godly Theology and also the mysteries of Philosophy, as we now have the pleasure of observing, and therefore, notwithstanding that at this time it is expressly ordained as the most essential requisite that those who have reached such stage of advancement should indeed be fit to be admitted as (lit: bear the name of) students and be no longer subject to childish rules and regulations and (consequently) be lodged and housed in small rooms, which even now in the Colombo Seminary have not long ago been vacated, and if necessary be repaired (i.e. reconstructed) on rather more spacious lines, this latter mainly in order that the complaints which have, with much good reason and to our regret, been made to us in this connection may cease, and also so that such students, as it behoves them as their due, could have the liberty to renew their minds untroubled and undisturbed in such separate rooms and meditate on such topics (lit: dogmas) as are necessary for their daily college studies, which matter, and the carrying into effect of the same, was therefore referred to the Rev. Rector who, from his daily experience of (lit: dealings with) the various types of pupils, would be best able to discern their good and bad tendencies and their good progress in the propounded doctrines, and also in which cases the school regulations could be reasonably relaxed or more strictly applied, and which of them need a separate and quieter place of study for their meditations; ... (n.b. the text here is mutilated) ... The pupils at present being definitely at least above 20 years of age, they must, besides this, according to the custom (lit: demands) of the country and their inherent nature, be entirely free, with the approval of the Rev. Rector, to go out accompanied by the Warden on duty and under his prudent discretion, perhaps either on Wednesday or on Saturday afternoons, for a walk or for baths, besides which they need not spend more Church time than is really necessary for their edification, studies and upbringing, but on the contrary, they should be encouraged and animated as often as opportunities arise to attend at public worship (lit: the public practice of God’s word). Further, it should also be a matter for the discretion of the Sector, according to the oral instructions already given inter alia at the commencement of an establishment, when the school children and also the students desire to have (i.e. need) His Reverences’ help and to consult then in regard to their studies, to assemble them either in the Seminary itself or in Their Reverances’ houses, or to ask them to come over to any other suitable place which may not cause inconvenience to others, partly because a study room is available at (lit: attached to) Their Reverences’ houses, and the pupils could always come to Their Reverences through the door at the rear (lit: back door) without any risk (lit: anxiety) that any one of them in this manner may without the knowledge of the Rector evade their due lectures and studies, and partly because the place of study cannot always be arranged for a precise (lit: fixed) venue; wherefore the Warden shall not forbid or hinder the said pupils and especially the students who, on the special orders of the Rector, come over to see His Reverence and as often as they wish to do so, to consult him over any difficulties and obscurities which they, may experience (lit: meet with) in the prescribed lectures and studies or in the set books and which they are unable to comprehend so well as they should without further elucidation by their Rector. The filial treatment (lit: childish rules) prescribed in the former instructions given at the first beginnings for pupils and children admitted to the school will not be applicable in Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 28 the case of the older and more enlightened students, which already over the years and the circumstances of the times have been evaded and have come to be regarded as a pastime (lit: a farce) and not as a matter of filial concern in philosophic minds and in primary sublime tenets; therefore, in regard to the students, the ordinary bi-weekly exeats, or even less or more often as the Rector shall decide to be salutary without prejudice to their studies, would be sufficient to enable the students to refresh themselves (N.B. the script is illegible here owing to damage by erosion) so that their conduct may best be observed, which, under the supervision and oversight of the said Warden who would have no scruples in permitting them to go out is a matter we would willingly leave to His Reverence’s discretion, who should not fail privately to encourage them to good conduct and behaviour, except in the case of the more showy students in case there is any doubt regarding their troublesome behaviour; and it should not therefore be imagined that the said Seminary will in any case need more such doorkeepers than what has been previously deemed to be necessary; and ... all such obstacles should be avoided which, even in a small way, could adroitly tend to draw away these naturally heathenish youngsters from their newly acquired manner of life and the Christian Reformed Faith; wherefore, it will be further necessary to see that the responsibility (i.e. care or custody) of departures out of (lit: exeats from) and entry into the Seminary should not be delegated to a Company’s slave who has hitherto been employed as a gatekeeper and as such cannot be entrusted with this duty, and even to the Warden or in his absence to the Dutch and Sinhalese schoolmaster, or even to one of the most soberminded and matured of the students. (n.b. The context of this passage is rather obscure from the text owing to damage in the paper and the difficulty in deciphering the original script). Those students and pupils who formerly without due investigation and good reasons left the Seminary on the pretext of illness and often for several months (lit: for months on end) went on the spree in their villages, shall hereafter not be allowed to be registered to proceed to their homes outside the ordinary vacations which shall be fixed with our approval unless the Chief Medical Officer of the Old City (i.e. the Pettah) issues a certificate signed by him regarding their illness and the need for allowing them to leave the Seminary for medical treatment according to their usual manner (i.e. for native treatment), which certificate should also be enforsed by the Rector by way of proof that he is aware of the intentions and the request of the pupil, and that thereafter one of the Curators of the Seminary should furnish us with satisfactory proof for obtaining our approval for the grant of such exeat (i.e. permission to leave the boarding-house) or for their departure for other cogent reasons, on the definite understanding that such certificate mast be signed only by the Rev. Rector in cases where a pupil has to proceed to his home for some time (lit: temporarily) not on account of illness but, a stated above, for other special cogent reasons, of which the said Curators must then make a careful note so that they could keep us regularly informed as to which of them, how long, and for what reasons have kept away (i.e. absented themselves) from the Seminary. Since the services of a Dutch teacher for the Seminary have been provided for in the previous Instructions and also, according to their express and recently repeated orders, con- sidered by Their Honourables our Superiors in Holland to be essential for exercise in the Dutch language, we have therefore recently, on the suggestion of the Rector, appointed (lit: allotted) Dirk Bruygom of Amsterdam, who, if he is found in due course to have performed Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 29

his duties to the satisfaction of the Rector, shall be given an, increase in his salary in order to encourage (lit: stimulate) him further in that arduous duty, while we depend on the zeal of the Rector to see that, in case of death or other causes, our intentions will be complied with, namely, that God’s house should continue to be provided with a capable and good teacher, who, besides the Warden, should at least be a member of the Reformed religion, but also be in a position to correctly teach the pupils the Dutch language; and in case the aforesaid Rector may now or in the future need the services of any further officers besides the present Dutch teacher, the Warden, the Sinhalese teacher and the native interpreter attached to the College, we shall then always be ready to consider his recommendations and to make such further arrangements, which at the present moment we cannot precisely provide for and which shall be found on further experience (lit: survey) to be successively necessary for the benefit of the godly intentions (lit: Christian aim) of this public institution. Further, we also agree (lit: consent), that whenever the Rector is occupied on public duties during the prescribed school periods, then such diligent and enterprising (lit: desirous of learning) members of the congregation as show willingness and have applied to the Rector for permission to do so, may attend temporarily, as it is apparent to us that several persons have from time to time earnestly tried to do so, which, to our great joy and satisfaction, should produce no other result than a double benefit and more Christian endeavour. As to the further mode of procedure in regard to the establishment of the students and their entire economy, we do not propose to make any alteration or modification to any of the existing arrangements in the institutions which have been issued from time to time as directions for the regulation (i.e. administration) of this religious training school, and especially in the restrictions contained therein, however, in regard to those of the years 1690, 1696 and 1709, in respect of which we deem it unnecessary at present to make any special repetitions or alterations until such time as further experience and altered circumstances of the times necessitate any modifications therein; and we shall for the present pour out our ardent prayers to the Great Teacher of all, that He may be graciously pleased to bless this great work for the full and perfect enlightenment of the heathens upon this heritage in which our Lords Superiors have hitherto laboured with much diligent care and at much considerable expense. (Below): In the castle of Colombo the 4th of May 1717. Signed: I.A. Rumph. (In the margin): Collated by: F.B. Giffenig. Amplification of the Instructions for the Seminaries of Ceylon both here at Colombo as well as that at Jaffna for the guidance of (lit: compliance of) the Reverend Rectors (p. 41) Considering that the regulations made for the Seminary at Jaffna by the Hon. Commis- sioner Hendrik Adriaan van Rheeden in the year 1690 and those made by the Governor Thomas van Rhee for the Sinhalese Seminary here in the year 1696 deals only with the instruction of the young pupils and prescribes the procedure which should be followed in the teaching and learning of the Dutch language from its very beginnings, which is already being done now, and it therefore becomes necessary also to provide for further rules for the special discipline of the said pupils, we have therefore, in compliance (lit: conformity) with the special charge and order of Their Honourables of the Government of the Indies at Batavia contained in the advice received from the bretheren Predikants of Colombo and Galle, decided to prescribe the following rules (lit: paints) by way of amplification of the said instructions for the direction of the Reverend Rectors of both Seminaries, viz:- (1). That while learning the Dutch language, the pupils should also be instructed in the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 30

fundamentals (lit: beginnings) of the Christian religion, and that according to the contents and the tenor of such booklets or authors as those which give expression to one and the same type of scriptural exposition and dissertation, for which purpose then, in our opinion, ”The first beginnings of Christian truth for Children” by Outryn could be used at first with much advantage, and explanations and dissertations which should be deeply impressed on the minds of the pupils and explained to them until they thoroughly understand the meaning and the significance (lit: force) of the same, and they could then learn the same by daily reading so that, besides what they have learnt by heart, they should at first be examined (lit: questioned) and catechised by the Reverend Rectors, and more so that Their Reverences should also, according to the regulation of the then Honourable Governor Thomas van Rhee, attend for an hour or two daily at the instruction of the pupils so that they may honour the same with their presence and ascertain which of the pupils are fit to be catechised. (2). Besides these their ordinary duties instruct them weekly in one Sunday’s section of the Heidelberg Catechism and pay visits on Saturdays, viz: in that section (of the Cate- chism) which will be taken up as the subject at the Sunday afternoon service, and after the sermon at this service, the Reverend Rectors must question them to ascertain what they have remembered and learnt from the sermon in elucidation of the Sunday’s portion which they have learnt. (3). In regard to their religious exercises, the pupils must say their morning prayer aloud in their bedrooms, and when they come to school, they must first read out the school prayer and thereafter a chapter from the Old Testament before they proceed to other matters, and in the same manner as at the commencement of the school session with prayer, this procedure should also again be followed at the conclusion of the session; and at noon, when they have sat down for their meal, one of the pupils shall say aloud the prayer before meals, and during the meal another pupil shall read aloud a chapter from the Old Testament, and after this the prayer of thanksgiving shall be said after the meal. In the afternoon, the school session shall again begin with prayer and the reading of a chapter from the New Testament, and it shall also end with prayer, and in the evening the prayer before meals shall be said in the same manner as at noon, and during the meal a chapter from the New Testament shall be read and the prayer of thanksgiving repeated aloud after the meal, and two or three verses from the Psalms shall be sung together, after which one of the Supervisors of the Seminary shall conduct them to their bedrooms, and they shall not retire to bed (lit: lie down to sleep) before the evening prayer is first said by one of them, and this shall be arranged by turns so that when one of them has prayed and read the lesson in the morning he would be followed (lit: relieved) by another who is next in order of turn unless he is otherwise engaged (lit: suitable for other duties). (4). The pupils having been thus disciplined (lit: prepared), or at least if some of them excel the others in understanding, comprehension and diligence, then, in order that they may not have to wait for and be held up by the others in their studies, the Reverend Rectors shall begin to instruct the more advanced of them in the ’Short outline’ of Outryn, so that they may not only learn it by heart but also daily be instructed therein in the College, where the Reverend Rectors shall endeavour to explain to them the said Outline and to clarify the same (i.e. make it understandable) in every respect, and that what is taught on any one day should be revised (lit: repeated) in school on the following day, during which revision the Reverend Rectors should question them on what they have learnt on the previous day, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 31

in order to ascertain whether they have well and truly understood (i.e. comprehended) the same. (5). Having impressed this ’Outline’ in this manner in their minds, they could then proceed to study Church history; however, as the progress (lit: thread) of their studies in Theology could be interrupted thereby and there may be a tendency on their part, on account of their being busy with their studies in Church history, to forget what they have learnt with so much labour, they should therefore first be instructed in Natural theology as a subject that would be most useful for them in several respects, not only for acquiring a sound knowledge of advanced Theology, but also to be able to meet any arguments by unbelievers against the same, to refute their erroneous opinions, and to convince them of the truth; for this purpose TAKO HAYO VAN DER HONER could be used with much advantage; and the Reverend Rectors should, for this purpose, in consultation with the Bretheren Predikants , make comparative notes therefrom in an appropriate form in order to present to them (the pupils) a short and concise mode of instruction in Natural Theology, which they should first dictate to them and thereafter discuss with them, in the same manner as indicated above in regard to discourses on the ’Outline’, at which presentation and discourses the Rev. Rectors should preserve (i.e. retain) and use the same (lit: particular) expressions (i.e. phrases) of the respective authors, not only in order that they (i.e. the pupils) may more easily understand the authors themselves when they subsequently read them, but also so that all Rectors who succeed in the future either through death or other circumstances may not only follow the same method of instruction but also use (i.e. adopt) the same expressions (i.e. phrases) for the greatest benefit and advantage of their pupils. (6). In dealing with the study of Natural Theology, the Rev. Rectors shall firstly take up the further revision on two or three occasions of the ’Outline’ of D’Outryn until the pupils acquire a sound knowledge of Natural Theology, and thereafter the Rev. Rectors may leave (i.e. relinquish) it and take up the synopsis of BURMANN. (7). Proceeding then to the Synopsis of Burmann, the Rev. Rectors should compile (i.e. make) notes from the same and present them in writing according to the trend and the order of the author, using only the theological discourses, the expressions (i.e. phrases) and the definitions therein without touching on any questions (i.e. dogmas) contained in the said work (lit: book) other than those only which may reasonably be found to be appropriate in these lands for refuting the errors of the heathens both among the Tamils as well as the Sinhalese and for correcting and convincing them of their errors. After having made suitable arrangements accordingly in consultation with the Rev. Bretheren Predikants , the Rev. Rectors should dictate the same to the pupils in writing, and after having done so, they should first hold discourses on the same (i.e. the dictated notes) with the students on the following day and explain them to the students in further detail before dictating a new lesson to them, and further instruct them in the same in the same manner as indicated above in respect of Natural Theology, which Natural Theology should also be repeated (i.e. read over) at least twice a week by way of revision. And while the Rev. Rectors are engaged in preparing their work for the students, in order to instil (lit: imprint) in the minds of the pupils the revealed theological doctrines and to guide them in their understanding of the same, and when they have acquired a sound knowledge of revealed theological doctrine, the Rev. Rectors could then proceed to instruct them in Church history. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 32

(8). And in order to provide for a concise and orderly plan of studies in this respect to enable them to acquire a knowledge of the subject, there is yet no better known author than HORNIUS, in the study of whose work, the Rev. Rectors could reasonably add an appropriate chronology to the same. (9). When the students have been instructed in this manner, the Rev. Rectors shall instruct them further in the manual of introduction to analytical studies in order that they may thus learn the relevant scriptural teachings in this respect, and at the same time they should explain the same to the pupils so that they may discern and comprehend the wisdom of God’s nature (lit: spirit) as contained in the same and other relevant matters, and for this purpose it is essential that the Rev. Rectors should then hold analytical discourses with their pupils over the respective books of the Old and New Testament, and while doing so, they should set them some text from the book which they have studied in order that they may preach a sermon thereon; and as this is not possible unless the students have grasped and understood the method and appropriate manner of preaching a sermon and as there is no known work in Dutch which surpasses (i.e. excels) that of Mr. Van Staveren in this respect, the Rev. Rectors should instruct them in the same (lit: go through the same with them), showing them exactly how it could most conveniently be used not only generally but also especially according to the varying circumstances of the times which they may have to experience in dealing with dogmatic, practical or prophetic or symbolic texts. (n.b. the original text of this sentence is not clearly legible on account of damage to the paper on which it is written). (10). But none of the proceedings mentioned above shall be followed in the instruction of the students and no further changes too should be made in them except after consultation and with the prior knowledge of the Rev. Bretheren Predikants , and they shall until such time be observed as a permanent and fixed plan of instruction for the Seminary, so that in case of death or transfer of the Rectors, no new methods of instruction, definitions or expressions may be introduced for the students, and also that the Proponents too may likewise follow and use the same basic plan, definitions and expressions in their work among the Tamil as well as the Sinhalese, which is most essential, or at least useful, for the progress of Christ’s Churches and the extension of His kingdom among the native inhabitants, as they are generally easily perturbed over the slightest innovation (1it: changes) in these matters in their general belief that with the introduction (lit: use) of new books, definitions and expressions attempts are being made to present to them and teach them a new religion; (11). And in order that the students may be more and more stimulated and encouraged to diligently pursue and progress in their studies with all possible zeal and enthusiasm in the aforesaid manner, it will therefore be necessary to hold a public examination every month, at which they shall be interrogated in the presence of the Curator and the Predikants on what they have learnt (in such time) to see how far they have advanced, and in order to ascertain this better, the Predikants shall be free to test them further in these and other matters (lit: points). (12). It is also by no means less necessary (to see) that the pupils should have a vacation once a year, and that they should during such vacation not stay away for more than ten days out of the Seminary, when they could proceed to their homes to visit their parents and friends, especially those who come from distant places and from the districts of Matara, considering the time that has to be spent on their journeys to their homes and fro; but in the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 33

case of those who live in the Colombo district six days would be sufficient since they have not so far to travel, lest by too long a stay with their parents or friends they be contaminated and led into any superstitious and idolatrous ways of life to which the native inhabitants are so prone. (13). For this purpose, the vacation shall begin in the middle of the month of January and end before the 25th of the same month, in order to prevent their going to their homes during the period and the months when idolatry and demon worship generally takes place in the way of public festivals of the native inhabitants, accompanied by sacrifices, dancing and pilgrimages to such places as Adam’s Peak, Kataragama and other pagodas (i.e. shrines), which generally take place during the months of April, Kay, July, November, etc. These are the matters which we deem to be necessary for a well-administered and sound institution, and the Rectors should also see that they are duly observed in the aforesaid manner in order to achieve the salutary aims and objects with which our Lords Superiors have established these Seminaries (lit: Training Schools), and we shall await the further observations in writing of the Rev. Predikants as to what books, besides those which we have mentioned above, Their Reverences consider would be useful for the pupils and the students and necessary for their instruction. Thus decided and decreed in the Castle of Colombo on the 2nd of March 1709. (Signed). Hendrik Becker. (In the margin): Collated by: Jan Scheerken. The contents of the above having been duly perused and respectfully discussed (lit: rea- soned out) by this Session, it was observed that in the honoured exposition of His Excellency the Governor of this Island it was the intention to prescribe and appropriate set of regulations for the Seminary here which would conform fully with the very salutary object for which the Seminary (lit: Training School) was first established here in this land and as they have been subsequently duly and adequately modified in one way and another and His Excellency’s opinions in this respect have been founded (i.e. based) on no other than sound reason and practical experience: therefore this meeting (while otherwise well aware of His Excel- lency’s prudent discretion in all matters especially pertaining to the care of Sod’s Church and even to matters of lesser importance) could certainly not hesitate to fully approve of His Excellancy’s proposals and respectfully confirm that there are no sore expeditious and appropriate means of attaining that most desirable object, considering the nature and the circumstances of this country, than those proposed and recommended by His Excellency. Wherefore then, this Session has the honour, in compliance with the said requisition of the Government in the framing of a set of instructions regarding the mode of instruction in the abovementioned Seminary (subject to wiser judgment), to report that in regard to the annexed sets of rules and instructions they can suggest (lit: think of) no more appropriate and suitable plan than the amplified set of instructions framed by His Excellency the late Governor Becker in the year 1709, but that the Session presumes however (in respectfully submitting this their dissent) that for the instruction of the youth in the fundamentals (lit: rudiments) of religion, instead of the ’Concise outline of Divine Truth’ by D’Outreyn, one or other author on the Heidelberg Catechism (be it even the aforesaid author in his elaborate work on that ’golden gem’) could be made use of with greater benefit; and the Session also further, in view of certain occasional inconveniences experienced by the Dutch teacher in certain parts of that elaborate work, has the honour to respectfully submit for the consider- ation of the Government, whether it would not be desirable, in view of the great importance Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 34

of that so long delayed aim and in view of the departure of the Latin and other Preceptors, besides the Dutch teacher who instructs the children in reading, writing and other rudiments of the Dutch language, to provide the Hector with yet another Dutch teacher under some appropriate designation, who possesses some knowledge of the rudiments of Christianity (lit: religion) and who could teach the Catechism etc. in order to make the pupils more capable of assimilating the lessons of the Rector with greater benefit and advantage, the more so because this would seem to be necessary not only for the several (lit: different) types of work itself and the different types of students (lit: scholars), but also especially in case of occasions of illness or otherwise (on account of which we have hitherto experienced no little obstacles in that important work); and the Session, trusting that it has hereby fully complied with (lit: fulfilled) the honoured requisition of the Government, accordingly resolved to notify the Government respectfully of these proceedings by forwarding an extract of the same. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous Session were duly read, discussed and signed, and no further business having been brought up by the members, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J.Meyer ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, Henricus Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert and S. Van Lier.

Extraordinary meeting or 16th December 1760 (p. 48)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. Potken; Elder: L.A. Schokman, and Deacons: J.H. Simons and J.H. Schutte (all engaged in official duty). The meeting having been opened with prayer, the Political Commissaris tabled a written order by His Excellency the Governor which read as follows:- To the Rev. Members of the Consistory of this Capital City. ”Whereas Your Reverences, on the requisition of this Government and in compliance with the intention of the undersigned in his recommendations of the 5th of this month regarding the Seminary, especially relating to the plan of lessons or the mode of instruction, have by your Consistory’s resolution of the 12th of this month generally deemed the set of instructions of the Governor Mr. Becker of the year 1709 to be the best of the earlier instructions; but on my further consideration of the altered circumstances of the Seminary here, had found them to be not quite applicable (i.e. suitable), wherefore I refer the same to Your Reverences, according to the recent procedure in such cases, to frame a comprehensive plan of lessons in order to assist me in my object in which I have now been at pains to solve more than any other matter, in the proposals which I have already made thereanent, which I would rather not made thereanent, which .I would rather not finally add to the rest of the instructions before receive the advice and opinions of Your Reverences, especially those of the Predikants and the Rector; therefore, I accordingly forward herewith the said plan of lessons or mode of instruction, which I have framed according to the desired project, in order that they may be carefully and duly scrutinised by Your Reverences, and after any observations which you have to make thereon, the proposals and recommendations therein may be noted, so that we may be in a position to release and issue the final (lit: definite) set of instructions in due course, considering the fact that the period of vacation is shortly due to commence. (Below). Colombo, 15th December 1760. (Signed): Jan Schreuder. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 35

Which revered order was respectfully observed, and the contents of the same and the plan of lessons or code of instructions for the Seminary annexed thereto having been duly and respectfully considered and discussed in all its details, the meeting considered them to be most beneficial and both sound and appropriate for attaining the desired aim, adding that they not only expressed their agreement and approval of the same and confirmed that they had nothing to add thereto, but must also hereby convey their grateful sense of appreciation and joy over the praiseworthy concern (lit: care) and assiduous labour which His Excellency had devoted not, only in the interests of the progress of Christianity but also of the Seminary particularly. The aforesaid code of instructions read as follows:- The Tamil and Sinhalese Schoolmasters Shall further instruct each of their pupils who are already able to read and write in their mother tongue in their respective languages, and also make them learn by heart the common prayers, formularies, the Heidelberg Catechism, the simple questions of Borstius and some Chapters from the Bible as they are already set out and used in the available texts in Tamil and Sinhalese. For this purpose, they shall on Mondays, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and in the afternoons from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., engage themselves in reading out to their pupils in a clear, outspoken and easy voice, not making it too easy but in a naturally grave manner and with the usual intonation of the respective languages, some chapters from the Bible according to their choice, and likewise some writings from olas and documents, so that they (i.e. the pupils) would be able to read any unseen passages which may be set before them for this purpose, in order that each of them could read in his own mother tongue all future printed as well as written books with the required ability and proficiency. And although these pupils are supposed to be able already to read and write and conse- quently there is no need for them to read out or spell initially and much less to learn the letters, the Tamil and Sinhalese should therefore however instruct them in an appropriate manner in the well-known features of such languages so that they could learn the rudiments of their mother tongue and the rules of the same in the instruction which they receive (lit: enjoy) in the Seminary as particularly distinct from the general school instruction previously imparted to them. Besides this, although their pupils may have already acquired a degree of neatness and proficiency in the art of writing, these teachers shall still further instruct them at the same time so that they may be able to write neatly and expeditiously with a steel pen (i.e. a stylus) on olas as well as with an ordinary pen on paper, the latter of which should take place in the mornings and the former in the afternoons. Besides a good knowledge of the Catechism and the book of Borstius, they must also learn by heart especially the Lord’s Prayer, the Ten Commandments, the Formularies of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, the Twelve Articles of Faith, the morning and evening prayers and the prayer before meals. The more the selected Chapters of the Bible the students learn by heart the better, if the masters will particularly see that they could know them by heart within the course of one. year; for which purpose the chapters relating to the birth of Christ, His life and teachings, his sufferings, death and burial, His resurrection and Ascension, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit are relevant (lit: appropriate), in order that they may not only be instructed in their youth in these essential matters, but also be made early acquainted with the language of the Bible or, according to the general saying, be biblically (i.e. religiously) minded; And Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 36 in order generally that they may learn this more easily and automatically, the school period should never terminate before and at least until a half hour is spent when t he said prayers, formularies of Bible chapters are read aloud in turn by one of the students, or, if need be, by the lister, in the presence of everyone. The period between 8.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday and Saturday mornings shall be specially devoted for this purpose. On Wednesdays, they (i.e. the students) shall repeat by heart either one or even half a page from the ’Concise book of questions’ of Borstius and one of the recently-learnt formularies and players, for which they would have had two days time for previous preparation (lit: to prepare themselves previously). On the following Wednesday, and so on subsequently, they shall again learn the subse- quent (i.e. next) parts of the aforesaid ’Question-book’ and another prayer or formlary, and continue to do so thereafter; and if anyone has been excused (lit: absolved), he should begin afresh to do so, but when repeating what he has learnt anew, he should also repeat what has been learnt before in order that he may not forget one part while learning the other; But since such repetition could eventually last longer (i.e. take up more time) than the school periods permit, the teacher shall have the option (lit: shall be permitted) to select alternately one or other of the portions previously learnt and have them repeated as long as time permits without previously letting the students know what passages therefrom he has selected, in order that they may in this way be generally prepared for everything. On Saturday mornings they must continue to repeat the Catechism, and especially that portion of it which will be taken up in the Sermon at the Sunday afternoon service in the Church, for which they would have had sufficient time to prepare themselves. On the occasion, these masters should also generally and especially explain and expound in detail to their pupils by means of a simple process of catechising the aforesaid Sunday’s portion. All that has been said above relating to the repetition of the formularies, prayers and questions shall also apply in regard to the repetition of the Catechism; But when the Lord’s Supper is administered and consequently no sermon is preached at the Sunday afternoon service on the Catechism, then they shall alternately learn by heart and repeat such chapters of the Bible as deal with Christ’s life and teachings, His sufferings, death and burial. During the Christmas, Easter and Whitsuntide seasons when the Catechism is not conducted in the Church, they (i.e. the students) shall on the preceding Saturday read one of the Bible chapters relating to the history of these Feast-days. The Tamil and Sinhalese teachers shall also question (i.e. drill) the pupils of the Rector on Monday and Thursday mornings and all the pupils of the Catechism and the Dutch teachers on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. by way of revision or examination of all the lessons that they have previously learnt from their respective teachers in their respective mother tongues, since they should, besides everything else, be specially efficient in their mother tongue, for if they are employed in the future they will have to serve especially among their own people (i.e. countrymen). Finally, these teachers should, on Wednesday and Saturday mornings repeat the formularies, prayers, catechisms etc. with their own pupils and also with those of the Dutch teacher who, being not yet able to read in the Dutch language, are therefore not in a position to learn anything by heart in that language. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 37

The Dutch Schoolmaster Shall instruct his pupils in reading and writing and in mathematics and also in the singing of some psalms in the Dutch language, and also make them learn by heart the common prayers, formularies, the Catechism and Bible chapters which they have learnt in their mother tongue from their previous teacher; And in teaching them to read and write, the teacher should understand that their pupils possess only a fragmentary and imperfect knowledge and speak a sort of broken Dutch which they have incidentally (i.e. casually) learnt in the course of their stay in the Seminary and that they have therefore much more to learn from day to day, since it has already been a rule in this connection that no other than the Dutch language should be spoken in the Seminary, and consequently these youths have no knowledge even of the letters to be able to write read and spell in the Dutch language; Therefore, he should train (lit: educate) them in an entirely different manner to that followed by the Tamil or the Sinhalese raster, and instruct them from the very outset (lit: beginnings), and in this respect (lit: for this purpose) they should bear well in mind that when they leave the school after learning the Dutch language, they should be in a position to be able to understand the instruction of the Catechism teacher and subsequently of the Rector and be able to read all works in the Dutch language. For this purpose (lit: in order to achieve this) he shall on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the afternoons, instruct his pupils; and in doing so he should first and foremost teach them the letters of the Alphabet (lit: A.B.C) not only in their sequence but also by qestioning them in naming the individual letters separately, and thereafter he should also teach them to spell slowly at first and quickly liter the words which they have read, and also to pronounce well and quickly and read slowly, and also to be able gradually to learn and read the same quickly and fluently without faltering or stammering, from printed and written script, for the former of which the common school-books should be printed (n.b. the word ’gedrukt’ meaning ’printed’ is entered in the original text: this is probably an error for ’gebruikt’ meaning ’made use of’) . On these same days of the week he should also devote definite periods out of his school hours for teaching the pupils reading, writing mathematics and psalm-singing respectively. For this purpose, the pupils should during each school period write at least one page of script, for which the teacher should then set them special portions either of letters only or of relevant passages (lit: lines). Bat as regards mathematics, it will be sufficient if they understand (i.e. have a knowledge of) only the four so-called types and a fair practical knowledge, as mathematics is not so easy for them to learn, and also as their minds would thereby be enlightened and they would consequently have some groundings in the study of geometry. And in regard to psalm-singing, the teacher should instruct them in the same impassively and without too much labour by singing a psalm together with them both in the mornings and in the afternoons at the end of the school periods, and also by occasionally teaching them the notes and the tunes. All that has been prescribed above for the Tamil and the Sinhalese schoolmaster, both in regard to the study of the formularies, prayers, catechism and Bible chapters generally as well as for the work to be done on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in particular, should Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 38 be observed also by the Dutch teacher in the performance of his duties. Therefore, he too should devote a half hour out of each school period to the reading of some of the prescribed formularies, prayers and Bible chapters by those of his pupils who are able to read in Dutch. On Wednesday mornings, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., he shall question these pupils in one section from Borstius and get them to repeat properly by heart one of the formularies or prayers, with the revision of what they have previously learnt. From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday mornings, he should make these pupils repeat by heart the Sunday’s portion of the Catechism which will be preached on at the following Sunday’s service in the Church, and also revise what they have previously learnt; and before the days on which the Lord’s Supper or Holy. Communion is to be administered, they should make them repeat by heart such portions from the set Bible chapters as are most appropriate for the occasion; but the pupils who are still unable to read and are not in a position to learn anything by heart in Dutch should be sent over by him to the Tamil and the Sinhalese schoolmasters at 10 a.m. But the Dutch schoolmaster should particularly see that his pupils learn and understand the Heidelberg Catechism, for which purpose he should conduct a sort of catechising on Saturdays after each one has done his turn of repetition, and he should clearly explain to his pupils in a simple manner by means of questions and answers so as to make them understand the general rudiments of Truth. He should also see that on Wednesday mornings the students of the Rector, and on Satur- day mornings at the same time the students of the Catechism teacher, repeat and understand everything that they have previously learnt. The Catechism Master Whose duties shall solely consist in instructing the pupils who have already been prepared by the Dutch teacher so that they could understand and follow his instruction in Dutch and have therefore been sent over to him, on all ordinary school days from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the morning and from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the afternoon, except on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, in the Heidelberg Catechism in a comprehensive manner, to catechise them and clearly inculcate in their minds the truths contained therein, and thus make them familiar with the same by means of such daily instruction. Therefore, he shall each morning and afternoon deal not only with one but with three or four Sunday portions, so as to be able to complete within the prescribed hours everything that has to be done in the way of catechising and at the same time revising (lit: going over) the contents of the entire Catechism several times in a year, so that after a period of one or two years of such instruction (i.e. training) they may possess such a sound and substantial knowledge of the common Truths, that would, above everything else, make them capable in all matters pertaining thereto. But since the primary and sole object in the Seminary is particularly to train suitable citizens who would be able to bring over to us the native inhabitants who are mostly heathens or Roman Catholics, and to thus further the interests of our Reformed religion, for which it is necessary above everything else to have a good knowledge of their falsehoods, in order that they may be able to convince them if their ignorance and demonstrate to them on the contrary the excellence of our religious beliefs; so that the Catechism teacher should specially see that their pupils are well instructed in all the false doctrines and absurd beliefs both of the heathens as well as of the Roman Catholics, and also the superstitiousness, blindness, ignorance and unsoundness as well as the harmfulness Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 39 of the same, so that when they are later employed for school or Church work, the people, as the saying goes, ex eorum principles ipsos, (on their own arguments) may be convinced on their very own arguments or hypothesis (i.e. beginnings). He should also explain by examples (lit: allegories) to his pupils not only the necessary texts from the Bible chapters studied in substantiation of one truth or another, but also illus- trate all sayings (lit: expressions) and hypotheses with relevant scriptural passages specially taken from the Bible, and make them take notes thereon during the process of catechising, in order that they may learn the same by heart and have a foreknowledge of scriptural proofs and be fully acquainted with the Bible. Besides, he should for this purpose introduce to them some good authors who have written on the Heidelberg Catechism, especially the well-known work of Mr. D’Outryn. But he shall not express himself in arbitrary opinions and different interpretations of God’s teachings, nut he shall adhere to the Catechism alone, in order, on the one hand, to prevent all personal sensous interpretations and occasions of dissension, and on the, other hand to stake them understand and also impress the same in the minds of their countrymen, that according to God’s Holy and only soul-saving Word, there can be only one Master, one baptism, one God, and only one true faith; And in order that the students may at the same time be familiar with Bible history, which is a matter of singular usefulness, he should instruct them in the same on Saturday mornings from 8:30 till 11:30 a.m.; and for this purpose, he should as a general plan use the historical questions of Borstius, and also deal with the books of the Bible book by book according to the sequence of their historical contents of the books of the Old and the New Testaments, so that they will not only possess an overall knowledge of the Bible but also be fully acquainted with the details of its contents. The Rector who is regarded as a Graduate Predikant and one who is well grounded and experienced both in Holy Writ (lit: Divine teaching) as well as in all other knowledge that is expected of a good Theologian, shall further educate his pupils, who have already been instructed by the Catechism Master in the truths of our religion according to the guidelines in the Heidelberg Catechism and thus acquire a knowledge of religion, and are therefore called (lit: bear the name of) students, and as the saying goes, in the fulness of time, inspire them on to a full and perfect knowledge both of revealed natural religion in a systematic manner, and at the same time imprat to them some knowledge of Logic and Church History, and also educate the most capable pupils of the Catechism Master in the natural and practical (lit: organic and geometrical) history of the Universe. He shall generally work from7:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings, and he shall therefore also, besidesi the particular emoluments allotted to him for this work, also hare a free preaching, turn. But the Rector must understand that it is certainly not intended that the Seminarians should be educated in so called advanced knowledge besides a fair and detailed knowledge of Theology, nor even that they should be instructed in all the special details of the same as in the case of students in the Netherlands and elsewhere, but only that they should be led on voluntarily and spontaneously to a degree of more refined knowledge and mature judgment than others; Therefore, it will be sufficient in regard to World History or general historical studies if Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 40 the students possess only a brief, concise and relative historical knowledge of the principal events of history from the beginning of the world (lit: of Creation) up to the present day; And in doing so, when they come to the period of the rise of the Dutch, the progresses made by them in these quarters and in this Island in particular, the Rector shall deal with (or use) a sort of compendium of Dutch history in order to present in more detail what should be said, or rather has been said, in this connection, in order that they (i.e. the students) may understand (lit: comprehend) therefrom, not only that the State of the Netherlands is our lawful Sovereign and that the Honourable Company has been established here with the support of the said Supreme Authority, but more especially what obligations and relations they therefore owe to and have in the Company. With regard to geography or what they should generally be taught in connection with world geographical conditions, this should be done firstly by means of a Global or World chart showing the situation of the four quarters of the world as they are distant, near or adjacent to each other, and thereafter by showing each part of the world with its particular districts etc., as, for example: In Europe : Portugal, Spain, France, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzer- land, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Prussia, Poland, Russia, Hungary and European Turkey. In Asia: Asiatic Turkey, Persia, the East Indies, Great Tartary, the Kingdom of China and the principal Asiatic Islands; In Africa : Barbary, Nigeria, Guinea, Egypt, Nuba, Abyssinia, the Congo and Kaffir lands, among the last of which must be included, besides the Negro Coast also Monomotapa, (Blons Emugeeria) in the Coast of Zanzibar and Ajan and their surrounding island dependencies. In America : Firstly North America and from it Old and New Mexico, California, Spanish Florida, the British Colonies in America, the dominions of Canada and Lousiania, and then South America, and from it, Terra Firma (? Central Africa), Peru, Chili, Magellanica, Paraguay, Brazil, the district of the Amazon and also the principal island dependencies thereof; And meanwhile, in the course of all this, mention should also be made of their natural histories, both in respect of the origin of these lands as well as their religions, language and civil customs of the inhabitants. But since the Honourable Company has (i.e. is responsible for) the protection of the State of the Netherlands and its conquests here in Asia, it would therefore be most becoming that, as in the case of the Netherlands in Europe, so also some special attention should be paid to the case of the East Indies in Asia, and especially this Island and the adjoining coasts, which, however extensive it may at first appear to be, could however be dealt within a few months, whereby, as the youth learn through general history the principal events in the world, they would thereby have a good knowledge of this world or its physical features, and know where such events generally occur and the land of their protection, birth and dwelling place in particular; And as regards geometry, the intention is that they should assimilate (i.e. know) only such matters as are basic and reasonable and nothing else, since in this science no propositions (i.e. hypotheses) are acceptable (lit. believable) if the truth of the same cannot be demonstrated with veritable proofs, and therefore he (i.e. the teacher) shall be free, when the pupils first know the definitions, to teach and demonstrate to them some simple hypotheses (i.e. propositions), and thereafter expound to them a fair (i.e. simple) knowledge of angular goniometry, whereby their understanding (lit: sense of Judgment) would automatically be Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 41

generally developed, and they would acquire and desire above others for learning the further revelations of nature (lit: what nature has further to reveal). When they have acquired an all round general knowledge of these and other matters as a basis for further training (lit: exercises), the Rector shall then proceed to teach them Theology as their principal important study, and then also firstly take up the recreational studies of Logic and Church history by way of diversion. In reference to Church history, it as only intended that they should learn the destiny of God’s Church from the beginning of the world generally, and particularly the teachings of Christ and His Apostles, which, since the time it was exposed to all sorts of dangers, false interpretations and other such vicissitudes and was even finally subjected to the forces of Antichrist and was more or less buried as it were, and however, in spite of all this, contin- ued to retain its purity, and in the times of the Reformation openly maintained its identity and distinguished itself like the good corn from the chaff; and that they (i.e. the students) should also be made to comprehend the same in order that they may eventually expound to their countrymen that our religion and teachings are truly the teachings of Christ and His apostles, and therefore, like the law of Moses, nothwithstanding much opposition (lit: ad- verse vicissitudes), has been preserved inviolate, and that our religion, having thus remained undoubtedly the true religion, is that which is now presented to them in a comprehensive manner, omitting (litt: ignoring) particular details which are not so relevant for the purpose, and that it could also be comprehended in a short space of time. In regard to instruction in Logic, it is not intended that they should learn to argue in the various aspects etc. of logic which they cannot comprehend and which is really not necessary here in this country, but only so that they may learn thereby to think so that they may acquire a clear sense of understanding and discrimination in all matters; And since the aforesaid sciences should be dealt with in the form of a compendium, only excluding all special details and the Rector is therefore unable to make use of any authors or systematic plan therefor, while any recognised science writer thereon could freely be made use of according to the particular needs of these students and the object in view, the Rector should therefore prepare a short composition (i.e. plan of lessons) on such sciences, which must be so abridged (i.e. concise) that it could not only be dictated and explained within the period (lit: hours) allotted for the purpose, but also so that each subject (lit: science) dealt with within these periods could be completed each year; But in regard to the special studies and reading of suitable literature relating to these subjects, the Rector shall furnish them with the following works:- viz:- For studies in world (i.e. universal) history: ’t tijd Tresvor van Guthberlethus’ (i.e. the times of Tresvor van Guthberlethus’) or any other comprehensive work, For Geography: Wolf or Euclid, For Ecclesiastical history: the work of Hornius which is already being used here, And for Logic: the book of Flenderus, which has hitherto continuously been in use here. From 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, he shall briefly instruct the most efficient pupils of the Catechism Master as indicated above in world (i.e. Universal) history, geography and geometry, which period he could spend with then on these days according to his discretion, provided he sees that each subject (lit: science), as far as they have advanced in it, is revised once every month, and also that the lessons in them are completed every year in time (i.e. just before the general examination, and also Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 42 that these pupils have a reasonable knowledge only of these subjects and no more before they are definitely sent over to the Rector’s class for further instruction in the same. He shall spend the remaining periods with his own pupils or students as follows:- From 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, in the study of Church history. From 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays in the study of logic, and from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on the same mornings in the study of natural religion etc. From 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, in the study of Theology, according to the systems of Van Den Honert and Burman which are regularly used here. From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, again in the study of Theology, which two hours shall be specially spent in revising the work done in this subject on the other four days of the week, at which revision the students of the Catechism Waster who are not occupied in any work at the time must attend. He should particularly see that the studies in Natural Theology are completed, and that the students progress as much as possible, so that they would by natural reasoning be able to fully comprehend not only God and Man and the relationship which the latter has with the former, but also at the same time understand that this knowledge alone is not sufficient for true success in the work for which these students should specially be trained, because the intention being that they have to spread our religion among the heathen they will have much to do with heathen people, and having themselves learnt at the very outset (lit: beginnings) about their Creator and mutual relations, they would be best able to testify that they are really fortunate to know something more, namely: the teaching of Christ etc; since when they are inspired by God they would not find it so strange and unacceptable and they could be more easily impressed than when they endeavour to do so by their own efforts. (n.b. The context of the last part of this sentence is not quite clear from the original text). But since a number of the native inhabitants are Roman Catholics and have therefore, as compared with the abovementioned, to be brought over at the outset to follow the right way, so it is particularly necessary that the students should correctly understand (i.e. comprehend) general (lit: revealed) theology in all its details, in order that they may be able effectively to present our religion in its purity to both the Roman Catholic as well as the heathen, the latter of whom have already come over to us through the preaching of the revealed Word; wherefore the Rector should regard Theology as the principal important subject (lit: work) both for him as well as for his students, and in view of this he should once every year deal with the entire subject of Theology as is done in all Academies, but excluding the careless (lit: indifferent) opinions of theologians and only following the so called orthodox ones, and thereby always endeavour to make them familiar in the language of the Bible with scriptural expressions and scripture passages. With regard to natural and general (lit: revealed) Theology, he should in a more natural manner make them understand that the latter teach the same lessons as the former, that the latter explains what the former has taught, that the latter teaches more than the former, and finally that what is more important is to ascertain in what the former is lacking, and this in short describes everything that has to be said in regard to, what further explanations should be given in the intended course of training (n.b. The context of this sentence is not quite clear from the text). He should therefore off and on instruct them in what should be done in order to be able most usefully to persuade (lit: win over) people of other sects, how such cases should be dealt Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 43

with (lit: handled) in this respect according to whether the persons concerned are heathens or Roman Catholics, whether they are simple-minded or sophisticated, or a stubborn or an easy going nature (lit: hard or soft hearted) etc. always bearing in mind that winsome and persuasive ways are best and that restraint of conscience is not becoming of Christians. He should also, as opportunities arise, teach them some Dutch grammar so that they may acquire a good knowledge of Dutch expression and thus be able to properly understand all printed work in connection with their further studies (lit: exercises), and also so that they may be able always to show the School Board in Dutch their mode of instruction, be it private or public in the schools or churches, when requested to do so. He should also further see that his students attain a fair degree of efficiency in Oratory by making them deliver s short oration, either of their own composition solely or one revised by the Rector, at first in a separate room and later in the presence of all the Seminarians and the Curator, and at the annual examination before us (lit: in our presence), be that they may automatically (lit: unconsciously) ged rid of undue nervousness and express themselves in a free and easy manner, and also at the same time thus learn to be eloquent (lit: the art of persuasive reasoning). Finally, and most important of all, he should instil in them the fear of Gad, and animate them with ardent zeal and a spirit of joy (lit: satisfaction) and love for God’s work, lead them on in ways of virtuous living forsaking all worldly ways, so that they may wholly dedicate themselves to Jesus and His work in order that they may win the souls of men over to Him, and in short, inspire in them a spirit of true zeal and good endeavour, since all efforts other than these are fruitless (lit: in vain), and it will not be possible to achieve our aim in any other way ( n.b . The word ’niet’ appears to have been omitted in error in the text of this last clause). Besides this, the further and ax future care of the students in this respect is left entirely to the discretion of the Rector as he could know best (i.e. would be best able to discern) what his students generally and in particular individually lack in capacity and in knowledge and understanding, so that His Reverence, out of a true longing for the interests of Christianity and the extension of the same among the native inhabitants, may on his part not neglect the same, but on the contrary do (lit: contribute) everything in his power that would in any way assist us in definitely attaining our Christian aim; and may it please God to bestow His blessings on the same. No further business having been brought up, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, W.J. Ondatje, H. Philipsz and Elder: P. Blankert.

Ordinary meeting of 29th December 1760 (p. 61)

Absent : The Political Commissaris (on official duties), the Revs. G. Potken and J.J. Meyer (indisposed); Elder: L.A. Schokman (on official duty). After invoking God’s Holy name, the President tabled a letter received from Trincomalee containing their report on the state of the Churches and schools there, which was duly noted for transmission in due course to the respective Classes. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 44

After the reading and signing of the minutes of the last session, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje handed over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz as President, and the Rev. Mr. Meyer continued to officiate as Scriba it being his turn to do so. The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Ondaatje tabled two ’ attestaties ’ in favour of the Army Captain Lieutenant Frans Eykman and his wife Mrs. Susanna Storm of Galle, and Miss Anna Elisabeth Cubel, widow of the Assistant Willem Honter of Jaffna, both of which were duly accepted; after which it was resolved to appoint the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje (in place of the Rev. Mr. Cornelisz) to work with the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in revising the Liturgy Book (i.e. Formulary of Holy Communion), and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the Elder Van Lier for the 1st block. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Elder Blankert for the 2nd block. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the deacon Van der Voort for the Old City. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder fear Mr. Blankert to minister at the Leper Asylum, where the Lord’s Supper was administed by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Elder Mr. Van Lier on the last occasion when three new members were admitted. The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz to do the visits of the outposts, in view of the fact that the former had not administered Holy Communion there on account of his visit to Tutucorin while the latter had done so at his outposts. Finally, there came in two freed slaves of the Hon. Dessava, Mr. Cramer, followed by the Tombokeeper and the schoolmasters; the former of whom submitted their baptism cer- tificates which were signed not by the usual Minister but by two witnesses or members of our Church at Negapatnam, and they requested that their baptism be recognised. Their request was refused, and they were advised to furnish us with a certificate signed by the usual Minister in charge of the congregation: and the Tombokeeper and the schoolmasters were duly encouraged and dismissed, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert and S. Van Lier and Deacon: J.A. van der Voort.

Censura Morum meeting of 7th January l76l (p. 62)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Fybrandsz and W.J. Ondaatje (both indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld presided in place of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. The Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, tabled two extracts which read as follows: 1. Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 12th September 1760. ”Further, in compliance with the wishes of Their Excellencies (i.e. the Govt. of Batavia) in their aforesaid general letter that one of the existing Ministers who is proficient in the Tamil language be sent over to Negapatnam, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld was, at his request, nominated therefor.” (Below) Certified by: C. Janssen. (In the margin) Collated by: T.C.S. Cadenski. 2. Extract of a Circular letter dated 8th December 1760 from Colombo to the dependencies. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 45

”In view of the scanty supply of writing paper and especially of the small size, the supply of which we fear we shall not be able to cope with, we have resolved to have one lot of the small seal of 6 and 12 stivers stamped on quarter and half pages, to be used for (i.e. in the case of) passports, orders, citations, etc., and we accordingly notify Your Honours of the same and request you to order your supply of stamped paper of these values, and to see that all such acts and instruments which could reasonably be written on a quarter or a half page be written accordingly, and that for the former no half pages and for the latter no full pages be used.” (Below). Certified by: C. Janssen, sworn clerk. (In the margin). Collated by J.J.Qualenbrink. Both the above extracts were noted for necessary action; and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld tabled a further letter which came in from Jaffna, containing their report on the state of the churches and schools there, and this too was noted for necessary action and reply in due course. The minutes of the previous session of the Censura Morum having been read and signed, the usual Censura Morum was taken up, and nothing prejudicial to the conduct or teaching of both the present as well as the absent members of the Consistory having been brought forward, and also nothing against the other members of the Church except the cases of those already under censure which still remain in statu quo . The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the Elder Mr. Van Lier reported that they had nothing special to report on their visit in the 1st block, and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and Elder Mr. Blankert reported likewise in respect of their visit in the 2nd block. Only Bro. van der Voort, who had visited the Old City with the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, reported that the widow Mrs. Muyaenaar mentioned at the last meeting of the Censura Morum had requested to be readmitted to the Lord’s Table, and on being called in by Their Reverences she came in and repeated her request, which was granted since nothing further had been reported against her. There also came in the following persons who made their Confession of Faith, viz: Pieter Macquet, Maria Reus, Susanna Petronella Reus, Jetlina Ammerman, Elizabeth Kemper and Geertruyda Maria Kemper, all of whom having Satisfactorily answered the three questions put to them by the President, were dismissed with the blessings of the Session. Attestaties in favour of Mr. Frans Eykman and his wife Susanna Storm, and one in favour of Anna Elizabeth Cubel were tabled at the session and accepted. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle is to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fy- brandsz assisted by the Elder Blankert and Van Lier and the Deacons van der Voort and de Roth; and that in the outer Church by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the same Elders and the deacons Tyken and Schutte and the house visits correspondingly in this connection will be attended to by the Rev. Mr . Ondaatje and the deacon Lachom and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the deacon Teyken respectively. There being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (for President), J.J. Keyer ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elder: P. Blankert: and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, J. Lachom and J. de Roth.

Extraordinary meeting of 12th January 1761 (p. 64)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, W.J. Ondaatje (indisposed); Elder: S. Van Lier (in- disposed), L.A. Schokman (on official duty); Deacons: J.B. Teyken (indisposed) and J.K. Simons (at Negombo). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 46

The meeting was opened with prayer. The President then enquired from the Political Commissaris whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he answered in the negative. The President said that the meeting was convened, according to the annual custom, in order to elect new Elders and Deacons in place of the late Captain Jacobus Bauwer and the other whose terms had expired, viz: the Elders P. Blankert, J.A. Schokman and S. van Lier, and the Deacons: J.A. van der Voort, J.H. Simons and J.H. Schutte. But the meeting, considering that with the departure and the new admission of four new elders at the same time, the persons holding office will be a new lot (lit: novices), and that none of them would be in a position to advise (lit: inform) the others regarding the usual Church practices as well as regarding any of the previous Church resolutions, and also that they would cease to be in office in another year’s time with the new nomination and election of elders; the meeting therefore persuaded and requested Elder Blankert to agree to continue in office for a further period of one year, which he gladly agreed to do in view of the above considerations. Whereupon, proceeding to the election of three elders, the following six names were proposed, viz: Messrs. W.P. Van Cuylenburg, J.B. Raket, G.E. Holst, B. Aleman, W. Visser and J.V. Franchimont, out of whom the three following were elected by a majority of vote, viz: Messrs van Cuylenburg, Rwket and Holst. Similarly, out of the six following names proposed for election as deacons, viz: A. Homoet, Schols, Baks, A. Moens, G. de Moor and Stork, the following were elected by majority of vote, viz: Messrs. Homoet, Schols and Baks; and in order that their election and installation in office may be proceeded with, it was resolved to notify the Government of these elections by means of an extract of these proceedings, and to respectfully request their approval of the same. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld and H. Philipsz; Elder: P. Blankert; Deacon: J.A. van der Voort.

Extraordinary meeting of 23rd January 1761 (p. 65)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elder: P. Blankert (on official duty); Deacons: J.H. Simons (at Negombo) and J.H. Schutte (at Hanwella). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that the meeting was convened in order to discuss the reports to the relevant Classes and Synods in Holland and to the Church Con- sistory at Batavia, which have already been drafted, and to have them signed and sealed for despatch through the Government; but before taking up the same, the Political Commissaris tabled the following extract of a Political Council resolution: Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 16th of January 1761. ”Their Excellencies (i.e. the Govt. at Batavia) having, in their letter of the 8th of August last year, ordered that one of the existing Ministers who is efficient in Tamil be sent over to the Coromandel Coast, and consequently, according to the decision of 12th September last in compliance with that request the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld was chosen; but the Ministers at Coromandel having by their letter dated 9th December last informed us that the maintenance of a Predikant at the Coast there would appreciably increase the burden of the expenses of that Government, and that as the Tamil congregation consists of only 10 to 15 persons Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 47

at the most, they could vary well manage with the services of a Proponent who is efficient in the Tamil language; it was accordingly resolved, on the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, that the said Rev. Mr. Bronsveld should continue to remain here pending the further orders of Their Excellence. It was also further resolved, consequent on the resolution of the Church Consistory of the 12th of this month, to approve the election of the following:- As Elders: The Captain of the Burgery Wilhelmus Philippus van Cuylenburg, the Chief Auditor Bartholomeus Jacobus Raket and the Treasurer Gerrit Engel Holst, in place of the late Army Captain Jacobus Bauwer and the retiring elders Lucas Arendtsz Schokman and Salomon van Lier; and as Deacons: The Lieut. of the Burgery Jurgen Hendrik Schols, the Junior Storekeeper Albertus Homoet and the Apothecary Frans Bax. (Below). Certified by W. van Damast Van Limberger, 1st clerk. These resolutions were noted for due compliance; and the abovementioned letters (i.e. reports to Holland and Batavia) were discussed, signed and sealed for due delivery by the President. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with the benediction. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandtsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ) and S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: L.A. Schokman, and Deacon: J.A. van der Voort.

Extraordinary meeting of 5th February 1761 (p. 67)

Absent: The Rev. G. Potken; Elder: L.A. Schokman; Deacons: J.H. Simons (at Negombo) and J.H. Schutte (at Hanwella). The meeting having been opened with prayer, the Rev. Mr. Zesilles was welcomed. The Political Commissaris having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative. The President then tabled the following extract of a Political Council resolution: - Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Tuesday the 30th December 1760. ”Whereafter, two extracts were tabled of resolutions passed by the Church Consistory here on the 12th and 16th of this month in compliance with the requisition of this Council on a resolution of the 5th of the same month regarding the recent proposals of His Excellency the Governor in connection with the necessary changes to be effected in the Seminary here and the mode of instruction in the same after the introduction of these changes, in which extracts Their Reverences not only approved of the proposals as being laudable and salutary in all respects, but also the comprehensive plan of lessons or course of instruction compiled by His Excellency for further observations (lit: elucidation) of Their Reverences, and since His Excellency the Governor considered that in a matter of this nature it would be advisable to proceed at a slow pace and with the greatest circumspection, His Excellency produced the following memorandum (lit: remonstrance) with the set of instructions for the Seminary annexed thereto. (n.b. This is not reproduced in the text of the minutes). Which documents were carefully discussed by the members, and it was decided to make no alteration either in the proposals in that memorandum or in the set of Instructions, but to put them all into effect as a fully considered and approved plan, and consequently: Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 48

(l) In the said Seminary, such subjects as children of Sinhalese and Tamil parents, but no mixties, casties, or such others of this kind, shall be trained (lit: brought up) from their very early youth, so that they may, after the necessary instruction (i.e. training), be in a position to be employed as efficient native schoolmasters, ’ Krankbezoekers ’, Catechism teachers, and according to the degree of their capabilities also as native Proponents , and even in exceptional cases as native Predikants , for the extension (i.e. spread) of the true Reformed religion among the native inhabitants everywhere in the country, or, if they are not inclined to serve in the schools or the churches, then at least for employment as native chiefs of the Gate, interpreters, etc. (2). The Latin and Hebrew students, along with the other mixties who are now in the Seminary, are to be free to address their requests, to the Consistory informing it of their wishes as to what profession or work they would wish to be employed in, in order that further arrangements may be made to accommodate them according to circumstances and experience. (3). So, at the end of the present vacation, all the pupils, except the mixties, who, as mentioned before, should not continue to remain in the Seminary, should be duly examined in the presence of two Commissioners from this Consistory and two from the School Board, and all those who are of a stubborn nature and show no promise should be returned (lit: handed back) to their parents or friends, but the rest should be allowed to remain in the Seminary, to be assigned to such classes or schools according to their individual ability or efficiency (lit: progress), unless among the more experienced of them there are those who may already be in a position to be employed at first as schoolmasters either in the Seminary itself or in the country, or if they are not so inclined, in some service or other in the country. (4). The number of teachers in that Training School will consist of five persons, viz: one Rector, one Catechism Master, One Dutch, one Tamil and one Sinhalese Schoolmaster; and the number of pupils will be twentyfour, namely 12 Sinhalese and 12 Tamils. (5). In future, no other citizens should be considered for appointment as country school- masters, and much less be appointed to such posts, than those who have attended the aforesaid Training School (i.e. Seminary), so long as such persons are available. (6). Those who have been released from (i.e. completed) their studies may then only, and not earlier, be appointed as schoolmasters and nothing higher on the usual salary. (7). And at such time when they have performed their duties to the general satisfaction and usefully, and also through their zeal have made themselves more efficient, and have been recommended by the School Board and the Predikants who have meanwhile completed their visits, then they may, after due examination, be appointed as native (i.e. country) Proponents , on a monthly salary from the Treasury of 10 rixdollars or 20 guilders, to proceed to the Korales , Pattus or to be stationed elsewhere in the country for work as missionaries, to visit the people in their homes, to associate with them, so that by doing so they could teach, admonish and convince them either by discourses, catechising or sermons (i.e. preaching) according as the circumstances of the times and places and people permit, and thus instil in them a desire (i.e. relish) for the Reformed religion. (8). And so, as (i.e. whenever) these Proponents show the least signs of slackness and no improvement in their zeal, they should at first be demoted to the post of schoolmaster, and if they show no signs of improvement, they should be altogether removed from office. (9). On the contrary, but not other than on the rare occasion when even one of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 49

Proponents may be found who, both in his method of preaching and doctrine in the long run excels and surpasses the others both in efficiency, diligence and virtue, such a person may, on the unanimous approval of all and on the recommendation of the School Board, and also after prior examination, be promoted to such office of native Predikant , or to say it in exact terms, as country preacher, on a salary of 15 rixdollars or 36 guilders per month, without the laying on of hands, but only by way of advancement in status and wages, without any superior authority other than over the Proponents , as the schoolmasters and the schools are under the jurisdiction of the School Board alone, on the condition however that such Predikants will be liable again, on the least signs of slackness and lack of sufficient additional zeal, to be degraded to the office of Proponent and, in cases of further slackness, even to the post of schoolmaster, year even to be removed from office; and for these reasons, he should not be allowed to wear cloak and bands (i.e. vestments), but some sort of distinctive and modest native garb (i.e. vesture) as was worn by him in his office of Proponent , and much less be permitted to administer the Sacraments. (10). These Predikants should also not be allowed a seat in the Church Consistory or the School Board, but they should, on the contrary, like the Proponents and the schoolmasters, be subordinate to the latter Board, and be obliged if necessary to submit reports to the Board at all times on their work. (11). The said Predikants and Proponents should definitely be regarded as being distinct from the real Predikants and Proponents , i.e. as native Church officers who have no relation whatever with the Dutch or Netherlands but only with the native congregation, in the same manner as the native readers (’ Voorlezers ’) or schoolmasters are themselves quite distinct from their Dutch counterparts, and therefore, the native Predikants and Proponents shall not be registered in the Pay Books or under the rules for European officers, but on the contrary, like the native chiefs and other native officials, they shall definitely be subject to the regulations for native servants (i.e. officials) and be paid by the Treasury. (12). Besides, each of them must reside in his korale, patty or wherever he is stationed, and shall not leave his station except after obtaining prior permission to leave on a holiday. (13). These native Predikants , Proponents and schoolmasters shall not oppress the native inhabitants in any way nor accept anything at all from them, but they shall, without any pomp or outward show, be satisfied with what they receive for their maintenance from the Company, with which they can very well manage. (14). As for the rest, both in respect of the Seminary itself, the Curators or outside (i.e. non resident) wardens, the Resident Warden, the Resident Monitor (lit: father), the teachers, the alumni, the special children, the school periods, the private and public examinations, the vacations, the salaries and the provisions (i.e. supplies) both for the teachers as well as the pupils and the further supplies required at the Seminary, the regulations prescribed in the memoir incorporated above and the Instructions subjoined thereto (lit: following the same) should be strictly observed without the slightest deviation. In the circumstances (lit: on the opportunity now afforded), it was also resolved to revert the Hebrew Reader Petrus Emmanuel Van Dort, who draws a salary of 30 guilders, and the Latin Preceptor Jan Christiaan Stegwyk, who draws a salary of 30 guilders, as their services are no longer required at the Seminary, to the office of writers in the Company’s service; and in order to encourage the schoolmasters in the country, who can hardly manage to exist on their salary prescribed in the regulation of the 30th of October 1758, according to which the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 50

maximum is not more than 4 guilders and 4 pence and the minimum is only 1 guilder and 16 pence, to allow them the following additional perquisites, namely: that the schoolmasters in the country, consisting of 40 headmasters and 40 assistant masters, be allotted a house and a small garden in the premises of the schools where they function, and in addition to this also four amunams of purana land (i.e. fields which lie fallow without rain water or irrigation, as opposed to ’ kumburu’ ) to the former and two amunams to the latter, and that those who belong to each school be ordered to cultivate and plant up such lands for the said masters, and that the same be automatically continued to their successors in office; and likewise also that a fee of 8 rixdollars be paid in future instead of the fee of 6 rixdollars which has hitherto been charged, for the registration of marriage (banns) in the case of those who wish to have the same done in their homes, which will be allotted as follows, viz: five rixdollars to the headmaster and three rixdollars to the assistant master; and as regards the others who live in the vicinity, viz: The Tamil school at Slave Island The Tamil school in the City The Sinhalese school at Wolvendaal The Sinhalese school at Mutwal The Sinhalese school at Kalpitiya, and The Tamil school or school for the Company’s slaves at Pannebakkery, since no land is available at these schools, and even if land is available it would continue to remain uncul- tivated (lit: as waste land) because all the persons belonging to such schools live in the adjoining (i.e. neighbouring) villages (i.e. areas) and they can hardly be expected therefore to come over specially to the interior areas without prejudice (lit: without neglecting) their own work in order to cultivate the lands of these schoolmasters, should instead be allowed two parrahs of paddy per month for every headmaster and assistant master. (Below): Certi- fied by: Cs. Janssen, sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by Cs. Qualenbrink. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, on being asked for the reasons why he had absented himself from the last session without due notice to the President, replied that as his child was afflicted with the small pox, and as the child was so attached to him, he could not reasonable leave home to attend the meeting; which excuse the meeting considered to be quite reasonable and waived the usual fine that was imposed on him, and in order to prevent all abuses with messages in this connection, it was also resolved that in future, whenever any member of this Consistory is unable owing to any exigency to attend a meeting, he should then inform the President of the same in writing. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with the benediction. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ), Carel Sezilles, W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; and Elder: P. Blankert.

Extraordinary meeting of 23rd February l761 (p. 72)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer (indisposed), W.J. Ondaatje (excused), Elder: W.F. Van Cuylenburg (indisposed); Deacons: J.H. Symons (at Negombo) and J.K. Schutte (at Hanwella). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris said he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government. The President then said that the meeting was convened to bid Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 51

farewell to the outgoing bretheren Elders and Deacons, and to introduce the new bretheren; but before doing so, the minutes of the previous Session were first read, discussed and duly approved and signed. The notification of the delivery (i.e. transfer) and accounts of the funds of the Diaconate for the current year having been submitted to the meeting, it was duly incorporated herein as follows:- ” Notification . The congregation is hereby notified that the due statements of accounts and the handing over of the administration, the statements of income and expenditure of the Poor Funds during their term of office, with the net balances in their books of accounts as at the 31st of August last, shall duly take place on Wednesday next the 18th of this month at 9 a.m. in the morning in the Church here, with open doors and in the presence of special commissioners of the Government, the Court of Justice and the Consistory of this place; and anyone wishing to attend the same may do so as usual at the time and the place specified above. (Below): Colombo, the 14th of February 1761. By order of His Excellency Jan Schreuder, Commissioner Extraordinary of the Netherlands Indies and Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. (Signed): Joan Hugonis, Secretary.” Thereafter, the President, on behalf of everyone present, gave his wholehearted blessings to the outgoing bretheren and thanked them for their faithful services, and after the expression of due reciprocal wishes and compliments by them were replied to by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Blankert, the newly elected members were duly received and allotted their seats in the Session with the usual reciprocal compliments, on which occasion the Church Orders (i.e. instructions) were also read out by the Scriba , and they were listened to and duly accepted (i.e. agreed to) by the new bretheren. Further, owing to the distance of the Rev. Mr. Sezilles’ residence, the custody of the mem- bership roll was delegated to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, in place of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ), Carel Sezilles, K. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan de Roth and Jan Lachom.

Ordinary meeting of 9th March 1761 (p. 73)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (excused), and Elder: W.P. van Cuylenburg (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government. The President tabled a letter received from the Galle Consistory, returning the last set of Synodal Acts, which were communicated to the newly-elected bretheren elders, and noted to be sent to the Jaffna Consistory for the same purpose. The fine imposed on the Rev. Mr. Philipsz for his absence at the session held on the 23rd of January was waived in view of the reasonable explanation given by him. The minutes of the previous session were read and approved and signed by the members present. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz handed over to the Rev. Mr. Meyer as President, and the latter to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld as Scriba . The usual house visits were then Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 52 arranged as follows:- The 1st block by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankart. The 2nd block by the Rev. Mr. Sezilles and the elder Mr. Raket. The Inner and Outer City by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Elder Mr. Holst. The administration of the Lord’s Supper at the Leper Asylum was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Meyer assisted by the Elder Mr. Blankert, and that at the outposts to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz, who reported that he had been unable to attend to this on account of the want of time during the preceding month. The meeting than terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Meyer (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), Carel Sezilles, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and Deacon: J.B. Teyken.

Censura Morum meeting of 18th March 1761 (p. 74)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened as usual for checking on the conduct of the bretheren and the Church members and also for holding the service of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were, accordingly read and signed, and the recently admitted Church members were called in and admitted with the blessings of the Session after they had answered the three usual questions. No reports were received against the conduct either of the present bretheren or any members of the Church, except the cases of those who were already under censure, who were to be visited and admonished to live more, decently. The bretheren had nothing special to report on their recent house visits. Hereafter, there came in the soldier Rudolf Rynhart requesting admission to Holy Communion, and also, for the same purpose, a certain former Sergeant from Negapatnam named Godefridus van Wilik, who had come here on a holiday, and as neither of them produced a church ’attestatie’, the former was to be allowed admission after a simple examination at the next available opportunity, and the latter was also to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion. The service of Holy Communion was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, acting for the Rev. Mr. Meyer, assisted by the Elders Messrs. Blankert and Van Cuylenburg and the Deacons Messrs. Teyken and De Roth. The house visits of the native inhabitants is to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the elder Mr. Raket, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the elder Mr. Holst, and the usual service of Holy Communion is to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Lachom and Scholsz. Finally, the Tombokeeper came in but he had nothing to report, and on the enquiry of the President whether any members had any other business to bring up, they answered in the negative, and the meeting terminated. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Meyer (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Carel Sezilles, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, W.P. Van Cuylenburg, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, J. Lachom, J.H. Scholsz and A. Homoet. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 53

Extraordinary meeting of 27th April 1761 (p. 75)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken and Deacon: J. Lachom (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government. The President then said that the meeting was convened in view of an extract which he had received, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 24th of March 1761. ”Thereupon, His Excellency the Governor having brought to the notice of the meeting that persons who were taken on to the Company’s service in this land were not made to subscribe to the oath of loyalty and allegiance according to the former practice, as a result of which, whenever such persons happened to prove unfaithful (i.e. disloyal) and were apprehended, they could not be punished in such a manner as when they had signed the oath of loyalty and allegiance, which, according to the former practice, is subscribed to by all Christian potentates, it was accordingly resolved, on the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, that in future in this Island and its dependencies, no one, whether he be European or a native, of whatever nationality or country he may be, and to whatever office too he may be appointed, shall be admitted to the Company’s service, except those who are below the age of 16 years, who shall be examined (lit: kept under vigilance) until they reached that age limit, before reading out to them the terms and conditions and thereafter making them subscribe to the oath of loyalty and allegiance to Their Excellencies the States General of the Free United Netherlands as their Sovereign and Regents of His Highness the Prince of Orange and Nassau William the 5th, the hereditary Stadtholder and Captain General and Admiral of the United Netherlands, and to the Honourable Directors of the General Chartered East India Company, and to Their Honours the Supreme Government of the Netherlands Indies at Batavia, and to the Government of this Island and those who may hereafter succeed to the same; and further that the officials (lit: servants) in the service of the Company here in this Island and its dependencies, who have been employed without subscribing to the said oath of loyalty and allegiance, should, by the date of the general review of the Government Administration, or before the 30th of June this year, and those who are taken on later should also by this same date subscribe to this oath, viz: all ordinary officers and assistant officers, whether they be employed in the Military or Naval service as clerks or in other offices, in the presence of their officers and the Fiscal and also the members of the Court of Justice, who will be responsible for the General Review (of the Government administration), under the flag (i.e. banner) where under they belong, and the officers and other Commissioners of the respective Political Councils; and further, in order that the same may be done on a proper (lit: equal) footing, that a formulary of this oath should be prepared (lit: drafted); and this was discussed and approved, and it was resolved to send the same, together with an extract of these proceedings, to all concerned here and to circularise the same to the officials of the dependent comptoirs for their due observance. (Below): Certified by: W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. Oath of allegiance. ”I promise and swear that I shall be loyal and faithful to the Illustrious States General of the Free United Netherlands as my lawful Sovereign and Regents for His Highness the Prince of Orange and Nassauw William the 5th, the hereditary Stadtholder , Captain General and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 54

Admiral of the United Netherlands, the Honourable Directors of the General Charted East India Company in whose service I am employed, His Excellency the Right Hon. Governor General and the Honourable Councillors of the Netherlands Indies and the Hon. Governor of this Island and his Council as my lawful superiors, and that I will carry out all their orders and those of the officers who may be further appointed over me, according to the best of my ability, and that I will be obedient and subservient to the same, that I shall not leave the service of the Honourable Company before the expiry of my period of agreement, and then too not without the prior permission of my superiors, and that I will also conduct myself in everything in a manner that is becoming of a devout and honourable servant, which I will not neglect for weal or for woe, for fear of loss of life and goods (i.e. possessions) or for any other reason whatever it may be: So may God Almighty truly help me!” Which was adopted by the Session for communication and due observance. No other business having been brought up by any member, the meeting terminated. Signed : The Revs. J.J.Meyer (President), S.A.Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Carel Sezilles and W.J.Ondaatje; Elders: P.Blankert, W.P. Van Cuylenburg, B.J.Raket and. G.E.Holst; and Deacon: J.B.Teyken.

Extraordinary meeting of 26th May 1761 (p. 77)

Absent : The Revs. G.Potken, H.Philipsz (indisposed); and Elder: W.P. van Cuylenburg (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President asked the Political Commissaris whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, and he replied in the negative. The President then said that he had convened the meeting in view of an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which he had received, which read as follows: - Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday morning the 2nd of May 1761. ”Thereafter, in view of the death of the Catechism Mater of the Seminary here, Johannes Cantyn, the reader (’ Voorlezer ’) of the Dutch Church Mr. Jurian Hartwick of Hessencassel is appointed as Catechism fester, the Comforter of the Sick (’ Krankbezoeker ’) Fredrik Reus of Statenwoude is reappointed as Reader (’ Voorlezer ’) of the Dutch congregation here on the salary of an Under Merchant attached to the post, and the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of Kalutara, Jan de May of Amsterdam is appointed as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of this place and of the Dutch Hospital. (Below): Certified by W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by Cs. Qualenbrink.” Which extract was recorded and noted for due compliance: and since the President, in order to expedite the assumption of duties of the Catechism Master in the Seminary, had already obtained the prior approval of all the members by means of a circular letter, so the said Mr. Hartwyk, in compliance with the resolution of this Consistory at its session of the 2nd of July 1759 in Article XV thereof, was called in, and baring been examined by His Reverence for some time in the most important aspects of the true doctrines of our Church to the satisfaction of the entire session, he was welcomed to his office with their blessings and asked to sign (i.e. subscribe to) the Heidelberg Catechism at the next meeting of the Consistory; Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 55

And the same procedure was followed in the case of Mr. Reus who was appointed as ’ Voorlezer ’ and Mr. De Mey who was appointed as ’ Krankbezoeker ’, and they too were welcomed to their offices with the blessings of the Consistory. (n.b. The document containing the signatures of these officers on their Subscribing to the Heidelberg Catechism is filed on page 76a: see copy below). ”I, the undersigned, do hereby affirm and declare that I accept the teachings in the Heidel- berg Catechism to be in all respects in conformity with, and to contain the true and inspired Word of God, and therefore (lit: consequently) that I renounce the condemnatory opinions of Pastor Roell, the Rev. Mr. Bekker, as well as the fallacies of the Arminians; and I pledge myself and promise to, conform in every way to the said teachings as contained in the said Catechism and to instruct others in the same as conforming to the doctrine and the accepted formularies of our Reformed Church in the National Synod of Dort held in the years 1618 and 1619. Signed at Colombo on the 22nd of June 1761 in our usual Church Consistory meeting. ( Signed ): Jn. Hartwyk, Fredrik Reus and Jan de Mey. Hereafter, there came in the ’ Voorlezer ’ and sexton of the Wolvendaal Church Jan Coenraad Meyer, who said that he was at his own request examined by the Consistory in the year 1755 for appointment to the post of ’ Voorlezer ’ of Hanwella, and having been found to be capable, WAS appointed to that office by the Government of the Island, ana/since then, i.e. in November 1756, in view of the need for a Portuguese ’ Voorlezer ’ having been further appointed to this office on the dismissal of the then schoolmaster of Wolvendaal, he was, to his great regret and detriment, removed from the permanent cadre of European officers, and that he now finds himself compelled to respectfully intercede with this Consistory, not only on account of indigent circumstances (lit: great poverty), but also in view of the information which he has had that the office of ’ Voorlezer ’ at Kalutara is vacant, and he therefore freely offers his services for the post, requesting that his request may be recommended to the Government. The meeting, having given him a hearing, considered not only has the Church ministration at that place been at a standstill since the repatriation of the former ’ Voorlezer ’ of that station, and that now, with the nomination (lit: calling) of the ’ Voorlezer ’ at Tutucorin to the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’ here there is a vacancy in that grade, but also that the said Mr. Meyer had performed his duties diligently and fervently in every office to which he was appointed, unanimously resolved to recommend to our respected Government the grant of this reasonable request of his, together with an extract of these proceedings and the annexed application (lit: petition). There also came in to the meeting the foreman of the bookbinders Mr . Regel, requesting baptism for his three children begotten by a Mohammedan woman, but since he was willing to have the woman baptised on her confession of faith but was not prepared (i.e. disposed) to marry her and that it was therefore not possible for her to make the due promise (i.e. undertaking), this matter was accordingly referred to the President for investigation and report to the Consistory. And finally the bretheren Deacons requested that a senior member be elected in place of Mr. de Roth who had left for Tutucorin: this matter was deferred for consideration at a subsequent session and acting arrangements were to be made for his work till then; after which the meeting termina ted. ( Signed ): The Revs. J.J . Meyer (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 56

Carel Sezilles and J. Ondaatje; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and G.B. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken and Jan LaChom.

Extraordinary meeting of 3rd June 1761 (p. 79)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.J. Meyer and H. Philipsz (all indisposed). The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz opened the meeting with prayer in piece of the Rev. Mr. Meyer, and the Political Commissaris hiving said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, two extracts forwarded here by the Government were tabled, which read as follows:- (1). Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 27th of May 1761. ”Considering further that the Rev. Carel Sezilles, who had come over from Cochin for service at Predikant at Jaffna, was unable to undertake his journey thither and is therefore compelled to stay over here until such time as the sea voyage between this place and Mannar is restored, it was resolved, on an offer made by His Reverence, to allot him a preaching-turn in the Church within the Castle, and also to depute him to preach in Portuguese in the Wolvendaal Church as often as he wished to do so”. (Below); Certified by W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by T.Kriekenbeek. (2). Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 27th of May 1761. ”Finally, on the recommendation of the Consistory of this City in an extract of their resolution of the 26th of this month, it was resolved to appoint the ’ Voorlezer ’ and Sexton of the Wolvendaal Church Mr. Conraa Meyer to the vacancy of ’ Voorlezer ’ and ’ Krankbezoeker ’ at Kalutara on the salary attached to that post.” (Below): Certified by W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. These extracts were noted for due compliance, and the Rev. Mr. Sezilles was allotted a preaching-turn along with the three other Predikants ; and in regard to the second extract, it was resolved to congratulate the said Mr. Meyer on his appointment and to install him in his office after he has subscribed to the Heidelberg Catechism. The minutes of the last meeting were then read, approved and duly signed. Thereafter, there came in to the meeting the burgher and Lieutenant Christiaan Tellis Perera, requesting that he may be appointed to the vacancy of Catechism teacher, sexton and schoolmaster of Wolvendaal, assuring the meeting that he possesses the necessary qualifications for the post, but it was decided to defer this for consideration at the next Session when all the members would be present. There also came in the Church member Joan de Menekes, who requested the permission of this Consistory to instruct the inhabitants Portuguese in the Confession of Faith, which request the meeting resolved to grant him after a reasonable test (i.e. examination) at the next Session. Further, the Tamil Church member, Adriaan Frans Fernando, too came in and requested appointment as ’ Voorlezer ’ and ’ Krankbezoeker ’ for the Tamil congregation: his request was put off for consideration at the next meeting. No other business having been brought up by any member, the meeting terminated. ( Siened ): The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (Acting President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), Carel Sezilles and W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: P. Blankert, W.P. van Cuylenburg, J.B. Raket and G.E. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 57

Holst; Deacons: J.B. Teyken and Jan LaChon.

Ordinary meeting of the 22nd June 1761 (p. 81)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken and H. Philipsz (both indisposed). The meeting commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissaris having nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and duly signed. The Rev. Messrs. Meyer and Bronsveld then handed over the offices of President and Scriba to the Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Ondaatje respectively. Proceeding then to elect a Deacon in place of Mr. de Roth who had left for Tutucorin, nominations were received in favour of the Under Merchant Mr. Cramer and the book- keeper Mr. Gerrit J. de Moor, and Mr. Cramer having been elected by a majority of vote, it was accordingly decided to obtain the approval of the Government therefor and also for permission to install him in office in accordance with the normal Church procedure; and the following arrangements were thereafter made for the forthcoming house visits, viz:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Sezilles (in place of the Rev. Mr. Meyer) and the elder Mr. Raket. The ministrations at the Leper Asylum, which should be done by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg was not necessary on the previous occasion on account of some difficulties (? the small pox), and the ministrations at the outposts was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, where the Catechism Master Mr. Hartwyk and the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Messrs. de Reus, de Mey and Meyer, who had subscribed to the Heidelberg Catechism according to the decision at the previous session after their due examination by the President, will he responsible for instructing others who desire to be Church members. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Carel Sezilles and J.J. Meyer; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket, W.P. Van Cuylenburg and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan La Chom and Jn. Scholtz.

Censura Morum meeting of 1st July 1761 (p. 82)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken and Deacon F. Bax (on official duty). The meeting commenced with prayer. The President tabled an extract received by him which read as follows: - Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Tuesday the 24th of June 1761. ”The Church Consistory of this City having by an extract of its resolution of the 22nd of this month chosen the Under Merchant and 2nd Auditor Mr. H. Cramer as a Deacon in place of the Under Merchant and Chief Warehousekeeper at Tutucorin Mr. de Roth, the Council resolved to approve of his election and to authorise Their Reverences to proceed with his installation according to the usual procedure. (Below) Certified by W. van Damast Limberger. (In the margin). Collated by Ns. Martyns.” It was accordingly decided to proceed with his, installation in office next Sunday in the usual manner. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 58

Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the new Church members were dult admitted with the blessings of the Session after they had answered the three questions. No adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of the Church or against those members who were under censure, who had been admonishisd by the respective bretheren to live more decently. The bretheren had no special reports to make on their recent house visits, except that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled three Church attestaties which he had received, and the Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Sezilles said that they had been met by Mrs. Leembruggen and Miss Elizabeth Musan respectively, who requested to be admitted as guests at Holy Communion, and promised to produce their Church attestaties , which they could not bring with them on account of the troubles at the time, at the earliest opportunity. Likewise, four persons who had come over here from Batavia, named Symon Andriesz, Johannes Abrahams, Jan Jansz and Bartel Simon Jansz, and also one Andries Meyery, a soldier, who had in fact brought his Church attestatie with him which was misplaced by his friend (whose whereabouts are unknown) and could not be found; whereupon it was resolved to admit the firstnamed persons as guests at Holy Communion, and the lastnamed persons after a simple examination (which it was also at the same time decided to observe as a general rule in the future, which was done recently in the presence of the Rev. Messrs Sezilles and Ondaatje, and they were accordingly admitted to Holy Communion. Finally, there came in Mr. Pieter Bommert who produced his Church attestatie, which was accepted with those of the three persons mentioned above, and their names were registered accordingly. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the dea- con Messrs. Le Chom and Scholtz were delegated to attend at the administration of Holy Communion in the Church in the City, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Blankert and van Cuylenburg and the deacons Messrs. Homoet and Bax for the service of Holy Communion in the Church outside the City (i.e. the Wolvendaal Church), and the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz assisted by the above named elders were to do the preparatory house visits therefor; and the meeting terminated with thanks giving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, G.E. Holst, W.P. Van Cuylenburg and J.B. Raket; and the Deacons: Jan La Chom, Jn. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting of (20th) July 1761 (p. 83)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. G. Potken (indisposed). The meeting began with prayer, and the Political Commissaris having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that the meeting was convened in order to attend to the handing over by the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ designate of Kalutara Mr. J.C. Meyer what he has in his custody, and to send him over to Kalutara as early as possible, and before doing so to install another in his place, and he also thereafter tabled a letter which he had received from the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, which read as follows:- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 59

” To the Rev. Members of the Consistory of this City. Reverend Sirs and my revered colleagues , In compliance with the undertaking given by me on the 22nd of June last that I will submit to the Consistory in writing the proposal then made by me, I now have the honour to present the same as follows:- That since my free preaching turn in the Church within the Castle as approved by the Government, and also my offer to preach in the Wolvendaal Church in Portuguese or Tamil as hitherto, would not always be possible to be arranged without prejudice (lit: diminution of brotherly fellowship) among my brother colleagues, I respectfully request this Consistory to make definite and appropriate arrangements (lit: to make provision) for the same to the satisfaction of all concerned as far as it is possible in respect of our normal preaching turns in the Church within the Castle, and I respectfully submit myself to your wisor judgment and the discretion of this Consistory in the matter, and respectfully await Your Honours’ decision on the same. (Below). Your humble servant and colleague: Signed S.A. Bronsveld. (In the margin). Colombo, this 20th day of July 1761”. Whereupon the meeting resolved to refer this request of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to the Government, and to request the Government to fix such a preaching turn at its discretion; and likewise also a Burgher (i.e. citizen) named Christiaan Tellis Perera (who had requested appointment to the vacancy of ’ Voorlezer ’ and Teacher of the Wolvendaal Church and School and as Preceptor in the Portuguese, Sinhalese and Tamil languages, and had, after due examination by Commissioners of this Consistory, was considered to be suitable in every respect and no other fitter person was at present available) had asked that his appointment be confirmed, but since the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje was of the opinion that he (Mr. Perera), being a Sinhalese by birth, would therefore not be capable of imparting proper instruction as a Tamil teacher in the fundamentals of our religion in an intelligent (i.e. understandable) manner to the Tamils and make them efficient in the same in order to qualify them for admission as Church Members in due course, and not only so, but also that he (Mr. Ondaatje) had been apporached by several members of his Tamil congregation, who requested that a Tamil or Malabar person be appointed as their Preceptor (lit: teacher), and as the meeting too considered this proposal and request to be quite reasonable in the interests of the greater benefit and progress (lit: building up) of Tamil Christendom than had hitherto been possible through such Preceptors who were of an alien nationality, it was unanimously also resolved that this request of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje for the appointment of a Tamil Preceptor be respectfully submitted to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for their disposal and orders according to their wiser judgment. Finally, the elder Mr. Raket and the deacon Mr. Teyken were appointed as Commissioners for the handing over and taking over (i.e. the transfer of the custody) of the Church books; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Carel Sezilles, J.J. Meyer and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting of 3rd August 1761 (p. 84)

Absent: Elder W.F. van Cuylenburg (indisposed). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 60

The meeting began with prayer. The Political Commissaris having been asked whether he bad anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The President then tabled an extract of a Political Resolution which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday the 28th of July 1761. ”There was also read out an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory here on the 20th of this month, forwarding a request from the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to be favoured with a definite and fixed preaching turn in Portuguese and Tamil in the Wolvendaal Church, and one from a burgher (i.e. a citizen) named Chr. T. Perera for appointment to the vacancy of ’ Voorlezer ’ and Teacher of the Wolvendaal Church and School and as Preceptor in the Portuguese and Tamil languages, to which was appended a third request, which seems to have arisen therefrom, for a special (lit: separate) Preceptor in Tamil, and that a person of Tamil nationality be appointed to the post. In regard to these three frivolous (lit: idle or empty) proposals, it was unanimously decided to make no changes at all in the preaching schedule in the Wolvendaal Church but to adhere to the arrangements that had hitherto been in force, and also that no occasion for any loss of existing brotherly feeling should arise therefrom, either at present or in the future, if the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, whenever he is free of a preaching turn in the Dutch Church and wishes to preach in Portuguese or Tamil in the Wolvendaal Church, would notify the Reverend Bretheren whose turn it is to do so well in time and at least five whole days in advance, and not wait (lit: delay) to do so till someone else has more or less made preparations for preaching; And it was further resolved to ask the Church Consistory, by sending then an extract of these proceedings, for further clarification (lit: elucidation) as to whether Their Reverences in fact consider that the aforesaid burgher Mr. Perera is capable of performing the functions of the posts for which he has applied, or whether they consider that it would be profitable and advantageous to separate (lit: split up) these functions by appointing Mr. Perera as ’ Voorlezer ’ and Teacher of the Wolvendaal Church and School and Preceptor in Portuguese and Sinhalese, and appointing another person as Preceptor in Tamil, and to authorise Their Reverences, in case they deem it to be desirable to do so, to recommend a suitable person for such appointment to the lastnamed office. (Below): Certified by W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin). Collated by: H.J. Hesse. Hereupon, the decision of the Government, namely: that no change should be made in the existing preaching schedule in the Wolvendaal Church etc., was noted for due compliance (lit: observance). Further, in compliance with the respected requisition of the Government in the same extract, namely: ”whether Their Reverences in fact consider that the aforesaid burgher Mr. Perera is indeed capable of performing the functions of the posts for which he has applied, or whether they consider that it would be profitable and advantageous to separate (lit: split up) these functions by appointing another person as Preceptor in Tamil etc.”, this meeting has the honour respectfully to submit their opinion in this connection to the Government, namely: that they consider the said Mr. Perera to be indeed capable of performing the duties of all the posts for which he has applied, with which opinion, however, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje is unable to agree, for reasons which he will furnish at the next meeting. Thereafter, an extract sent by the Court of Justice was tabled, for the incorporation in our Church Marriage register of the marriage solemnised on a sick bed between a woman named Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 61

Magdal: Martus and a Mr. Seydeler, and an application from Mr. Dirk Jan Potken for the baptism of his slave child on adoption; both of which were duly accepted and attended to, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, Carel Sezilles, J.J. Meyer and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting of 24th August 1761 (p. 86)

Absent: Deacon J.H. Scholtz (indisposed). The meeting began with prayer. The Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative. The President then said that the meeting was convened at the request of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje; whereupon the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. (N.B. The next part of these minutes as recorded by the Scriba Mr. Ondaatje reads as follows, but this part of the record of the proceedings was amended in the margin by resolution taken at the next session which was held on the 26th of August, on a difference of opinion between the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the other members of the Consistory - see amendment below). (Minute as recorded by Mr. Ondaatje the Scriba ). ”Further, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje stated the reasons why he could not agree with the opinions already expressed by the meeting, namely: that the said Mr. Perera was indeed fit to perform the duties of the offices for which he had applied, because he (Mr. Ondaatje) feared: Firstly, that he would not be able to comply with the definite requirement of our Government contained in the extract of the resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Saturday the 25th of July 1761, even if their Reverences considered that the aforesaid burger Mr. Perera was indeed capable of performing the functions of the offices for which he had applied, for it is not quite evident to him that he (Mr. Perera) is really efficient. Besides, that he also, in regard to the further enquiry of our Government therein (namely: whether Their Reverences considered it to be beneficial and desirable that these functions should be separated, i.e. split up, etc) observed that this would appear to have remained altogether unanswered, for he feels definitely convinced that the Government as well as others are rather inclined in Church matters to be more mindful of the material rather than the ultimate (lit: external) benefits, and that this has also been so in the case of the more beneficial and salutary aim of our Government regarding native inhabitants in the plans for the Seminary, which also serves as an example to us (i.e. illustrates my point). And further too, because these functions were always (lit: at all times) separated in respect of the last schoolmaster and Preceptor Mr. Meyer, who, although he did not possess the necessary ability and without undergoing any test was in a manner unknown to him (Mr. Ondaatje) taken on (lit: sneaked into) the Church: therefore he, on his part, wished that the said requisition of our Government would be more conscientiously complied with.” Amendment made at the session held on 26th August 1761, referred to above). ”The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje then stated orally the reasons which he had undertaken to furnish to this Consistory, which were chiefly as follows: - Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 62

Firstly, that His Reverence, without challenging the report of the Hon. Commissioners, considered that he could find (lit: point out) a capable person from the Tamil community, and on the other hand, that much more benefits could be hoped for and expected by separating (lit: splitting up) these functions, as mentioned in the respected extract of the resolution of the Political Council; and the Session, after careful deliberation and mutual discussion of the ’pros’ and ’cons’ of the same, considered that it was not quite reasonable on this account (i.e. for such reasons) to relax (lit: go back on) their earlier decision in the matter of Tellis Perera etc; and since all aspects of the case had been reasonably discussed by Their Reverences, it was resolved to adhere to their earlier decision, and to respectfully inform His Excellency the Governor orally through the President and the Scriba , or if His Excellency so desired by means of an extract in writing of these proceedings, and meanwhile to permit the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who was not yet satisfied with this decision, the liberty to address the Government, giving his reasons, either in the way of any obstacles (lit: inconveniences) or by way of any special request whatever which he may wish to make in support of his proposal. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (president), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, J.J. Fybrandsz and H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken and Jan LaChom.

Extraordinary meeting of 26th August 176l (p. 87)

Absent: Revs. G. Potken and C. Sezilles (indisposed) and Elder: P. Blankert (indisposed). The meeting commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissaris having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. Whereupon, the President said that he had convened the meeting, because His Reverence on his part could not agree with the resolution of this Session of the 24th of this month as it was recorded by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje as Scriba , which were was sent to him in the usual manner for his signature (for the purpose of forwarding an extract thereof to the Government) with his countersignature, as he (the President), on carefully reading over the same perceived (lit: was disturbed) that the Rev. Scriba had not correctly understood the intention of this Consistory, in that His Reverence had recorded (lit: served up) the reasons which he had put forward at the meeting and elaborated (lit: extended) the same in such a manner by including (lit: padding it up with) one thing and another, so much so that on reading the same it would prove to be somewhat disparaging (lit: cause some embarrassment) to this Consistory; whereupon the said recorded resolution was immediately read out, and the opinions of the Rev. Members thereover having been solicited, Their Reverences confirmed that they were of the same sentiments as the President. Wherefore then, the meeting having further asked the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje’s consent to make an impartial decision in the matter, delegated the Rev. Mr. Meyer to officiate as pro tem [ pore ] Scriba , and at the same time decided that the said resolution, in the form in which it was recorded in respect of the point under debate, should be amended, and that the proceedings that had taken place be recorded as follows: - ”The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje then stated orally the reasons which he had undertaken to furnish to this Consistory, which were chiefly as follows:- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 63

Firstly, that His Reverence, without challenging the report of the Hon. Commissioners, considered that he could find (lit: point out) a capable person from the Tamil community, and on the other hand, that much more benefits could be hoped for and expected by separating (lit: splitting up) these functions, as mentioned in the respected extract of the resolution of the Political Council; and the Session, after careful deliberation and mutual discuss ion of the ’pros’ and ’cons’ of the same, considered that it was not quite reasonable on this account (i.e. for such reasons) to relax (lit: go back on) their earlier decision in the matter of Tellis Perera etc; and since all aspects of the case had been reasonably discussed by Their Reverences, it was resolved to adhere to their earlier decision, and to respectfully inform His Excellency the Governor orally through the President and the Scriba , or if His Excellency so desired, by means of an extract in writing of these proceedings, and meanwhile to permit the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who was not yet satisfied with this decision, the liberty to address the Government, giving his reasons, either in the way of any obstacles (lit: inconveniences) or by way of any special request whatsoever which he may wish to make in support of his proposal”. No further business having been brought forward by any of the members, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : As amended above: by the Revs: S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Meyer. ( Scriba pro tem [ pore ]), J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz ; Elders: P. Blankert, W.P. van Cuylenburg and B.J. Raket; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan La Chom and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting of 28th August 1761 (p. 88)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken and C. Sezilles (indisposed) and Elder: G.E. Holst (also indisposed). The meeting commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The President then said that this meeting was convened solely to discuss (lit: review) together the minutes of the last Session and to have them signed in order to avoid further likely disputes; proceeding to which, the President asked the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje whether he had any remarks to offer on the resolution which was read out, whereupon he replied that he felt embarrassed over the motives imputed to him, as he, to his knowledge, had expressed (lit: brought on the tapis) at the Session on the 24th instant no other opinions substantially than those which were set out in the resolution as recorded by him and which had already been communicated by means of an extract to the Government. But since the Session, on the one hand, pretended their ignorance of the extract sent out by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Thereafter, the Session unanimously resolved to take over with the other Church records and deposit in the Archives of the Consistory the four following Consistory records, namely: - No. l. The minutes of the Church Consistory from 14th November 1725 to 1st April 1735; No. 2. The outward correspondence of the Church Consistory from 18th February 1726 to 25th November 1742; No. 3. The minutes of the School Board from 2nd November 1712 to 3rd June 1721; Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 64

No. 4. The minutes of the School Board from 16th September 1721 to 12th October 1727; all of which were missing for some time, but were now handed over to the President for delivery to the Consistory by the Hon. Mr. Moens, who declared that after the death of his wife he had discovered these four records in a clothes cupboard, and seeing that they were Church books, he had handed them over to the President for delivery to the Consistory. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, H. Phillpsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz.

Ordinary meeting of 21st September 1761 (p. 91)

The meeting began with prayer, and the Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The President then said that the meeting was convened to make the necessary arrange- ments for the forthcoming service of Holy Communion, and he also tabled an extract of a letter received from Batavia, which read as follows:- Extract of a letter dated 17th May 1761 from Batavia to Colombo . ”Whereas the Almighty God, according to His unchangeable decrees, has now on the 15th of this month been pleaded to release the Hon Mr. Jacob Mossel, General of the Infantry in the service of the State of the United Netherlands and as their and the Dutch East India Company’s Governor General of the Netherlands Indies, and consequently, on the same date in the Council of the Indies, chosen in his place for that responsible and eminent position the Hon. Chief Councillor and Director General Petrus Albertus Van der Parra, therefore, we have resolved to inform you of the same, and at the same time to order that the aforesaid His Excellency be recognised, respected and obeyed as the Hon. Governor General. ( Below ): Certified by W. van Damast Limberger, 1st sworn clerk.” Which extract was noted by us for our information and due compliance. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read, approved and Signed: and the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, and that of Scriba by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz. Thereafter, it was resolved to refer to the bretheren who were due to do the house visits in the City a Church ’attestatie’ signed by the elder Mr. de Jong and the Deacon Mr. James Wambeek and dated the 27th of July 1754, in favour of one Maria Andriesz, widow of the late Assistant Christiaan Lemming who had come over from Trincoinalee, which was tabled at the meeting and later first circulated among the members for investigation as to why she had delayed so long in presenting the same. The forthcoming house visits prior to the service of Holy Communion were then arranged for as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Raket. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg. The City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankert. Thereafter, the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg reported that he had administered Holy Com- munion with the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to five members at the Leper Asylum, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket were delegated for this duty on the next circuit. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 65

The Rev. Mr. Philipsz too reported that he had not been able to perform the task allotted to him of administering Holy Communion at the three outposts for the reasons stated, but that he would however be proceeding to Panadura this week to administer Holy Communion there on the following day. Further, on being asked whether the bretheren had anything else to report, the deacon Mr. Scholtz said that the widow Mrs. Kooymans, a Church member, according to her statement, had not attended Holy Communion for nearly 26 years, and that it was intended at the next house visit to ask her to attend at Holy Communion, and after due consideration of the same it was resolved to ask the President and the elder who were due to do the forthcoming house visits in the City to make investigations regarding her conduct and behaviour in order that a decision may be made on her case after their findings. At this juncture the Sexton handed in an extract of a Political Council resolution, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Wednesday morning the 9th of September 1761. ”Firstly, there was tabled and read out extracts of three resolutions of the Consistory here of the 3rd, 24th and 26th of the last month of August, in compliance with the requisition of this Council of the 25th of July last, regarding a burgher (i.e. citizen) named Christiaan Tellis Perera, who was recommended by the said Consistory in an extract of their resolution of the 20th of that month for appointment to the vacancies of ’ Voorlezer ’ and Teacher of the Wolvendaal Church and School and Preceptor in Portuguese, Sinhalese and Tamil, but concerning which offices it also appeared from the aforesaid extract to be more or less essential to appoint a separate Preceptor in Tamil who should be a Tamil by birth, wherefore it was also resolved by this Council at its meeting on the 25th of July last to ask the Consistory for further elucidation as to whether Their Reverences considered the aforesaid burgher Mr. Perera to be definitely fit for the posts for which he had applied, or whether Their Reverences deemed it to be useful and desirable that these functions should be separated (lit: split up) by appointing Mr. Perera as ’ Voorlezer ’ and teacher of the Wolvendaal Church and School and Preceptor in Portuguese and Sinhalese, and appointing another person as Preceptor in Tamil, with authority also for Their Reverences, in case they considered it so desirable, to recommend a candidate for the lastnamed office. It was observed at the outset that it appeared from the firstnamed three extract that the Church Consistory of this City saw no useful and practical purpose in separating (lit: splitting up) the aforesaid functions, and that if it were possible for one and the same person to ably perform all these functions, they also recommended that the said Mr. Perera was capable of undertaking all these duties, whereas the Rev. Mr. W.J. Ondaatje, the Tamil Minister in the aforesaid Wolvendaal Church, alone was of the opinion that it would be really useful and beneficial to separate these functions as was formerly done in compliance with the most recent regulation for native officials (lit: servants) of the 30th of (September) 1758, in which mention was made of a ’ Voorlezer ’ for the Portuguese, Tamil and Sinhalese congregations in the Wolvendaal Church drawing a salary of 5 rixdollars or 12 guilders per month and of a Dutch schoolmaster at Wolvendaal, who also performed the duties of Sexton of the Church there, on a salary of 4 rixdollars or 9 guilders per month, but in the marginal observations on which regulation, on a resolution of the School Board of the 2nd of October 1759, this rule was ignored (lit: departed from) in the appointment of one and the same person to perform all these functions when one Jan Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 66

Coenraad Meyer was appointed by the said School Board, in the absence of the aforesaid Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, to perform all these functions; Whereupon, having reflected how impossible it would be for one person, nay even two persons, to be able satisfactorily to perform all the aforesaid functions in addition to those of Religious Preceptor and Catechism Teacher in Tamil and Sinhalese, but that the services of even three separate persons would be necessary for the purpose if the Church was to derive any benefit and advantage therefrom, it was resolved to amend and amplify the aforesaid recent regulation for native officials in the following manner for due observance in the aforesaid Wolvendaal Church and school:- One ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in Tamil, on a salary of 5 rixdollars or 12 guilders per month, One ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in Sinhalese, on a salary of 5 rixdollars or 12 guilders per month, One Dutch schoolmaster, who should also perform the duties of sexton of the Church, also on a salary of 5 rixdollars or 12 guilders per month; on the condition that the two firstnamed officers, namely: the ’ Voorlezers ’ schoolmasters and Preceptors in Sinhalese and Tamil, should also, whenever they a re required to do so, read and teach alternately (i.e. turn by turn) in Portuguese, and that as soon as it is possible to do so, these offices should be allotted to natural Tamils and Sinhalese (i.e. Tamils and Sinhalese by birth) from the Seminary or from those who have been trained therein: while it was also further resolved to ask (lit: require) the Church Consistory not only to nominate the aforesaid Christiaan Tellis Perera for appointment either as ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in Sinhalese or as the Dutch Schoolmaster and Sexton, but also to examine and recommend suitable persons for the office of ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in Tamil and for one of the two aforesaid posts other then the one to which the aforesaid Mr. Perera is to be nominated. (Below): Certified by: Johannes de Vos, sworn clerk”. The above was noted for due compliance by the Session. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Meyer stood up and proposed to the Session the name of the Sin- halese schoolmaster of the Seminary Mr. Daniel Rodrigo, who, according to His Reverence’s statement, should be well able to hold office as ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in the Wolvendaal Church although he is not so efficient in regard to his knowledge of Sinhalese to instruct the children in the Seminary in the grammar of that language according to the new methods (lit: arrangement or plan), for which reason Six therefore His Reverence was often inclined to request the Curators of the Seminary to discharge him from his office with the approval of the Government, and he therefore solicited the mediation (lit: interces- sion) of this Consistory that he be nominated for the office of ’ Voorlezer ’, schoolmaster and Preceptor in Sinhalese for the Wolvendaal Church and recommended accordingly to the Gov- ernment for appointment to this post; and the Rev. Mr. Meyer also undertook to provide a teacher in his place, and to urge (lit: stir up) the said Teacher to make himself efficient in reading and teaching in Portuguese off and on whenever he is required to do so, and all this is to be on the condition that no other fitter person applies for this post, by whose appoint- ment the Sinhalese congregation could reasonably (lit: on good grounds) expect to derive more benefit: which proposal was then approved by the Consistory on the abovementioned condition. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in a certain woman named Maria Swaris requesting that her daughter who was baptised in our Church Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 67

at Malakka be accepted as such and that her name may be registered accordingly in our books, but as she had no proof of the same, the Session resolved to delegate the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the deacon Mr. La Chom to investigate the case. There also came in one Casparus Casiechitty who had been previously instructed (i.e. educated) in the Small Seminary, who applied for appointment to the office of Preceptor at Wolvendaal; whereupon it was resolved to examine him as to his fitness and in the meantime to see whether there are any other who might apply for the post. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), R. Philipsz ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld (President pro tem [ pore ]); Elders: W.P. van Cuylenburg, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.B. Teyken and J.H. Scholtz.

Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday the 30th of September 1761 (p. 94)

Absent : Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fybrandsz, C. Sezilles (all three indis- posed); Deacons: J.B. Teyken and Frans Bax. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, and that the Political Commissaris had asked that the letters which were addressed to this Consistory (which he handed over to the President) be read out; and after having first enquired of the Political Commissaris whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government, the letters were opened and read out, and one of them was found to be from the Church Consistory at Batavia containing their report on the Church affairs there, and the other was from the venerable Classis of Walcheren: both of which were noted for record and reply in due course. The Political Commissaris then stood up and took his leave of the President. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and approved and duly signed; and the newly-admitted Church members whose names and addresses had to be registered were then called in, and the three usual questions having been put to them and satisfactorily answered by them, they were dismissed with the blessings of the Consistory. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no complaints were brought up against the life or teachings of any of the present or absent members of this Consistory. As regards the other members of the Church, besides the cases of those who were already under censure, who were to admonished to live more soberly and decently, mention was made of the case of the widow J. Scherm on the charge that it was heard that she not only did not attend at Church service but was also guilty of improper conduct; whereupon the meeting resolved to summon her to see the President, who will ask her in the presence of the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg to declare the reasons why she had neglected to attend at Church service for so long and also insist that this could be the reason for the unfavourable reports received about her conduct. The bretheren had nothing special to report on their house visits, except the elder Mr. Holst, who had visited the inner and outer city along with the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who reported in the absence of Mr. Fybrandsz that during their house visits they were nowhere able to find the widow Mrs. Kooymans to enable them to comply with the commission delegated to them at the last Session, but that they had seen the widow Mrs. Lemming according to the decision at the same Session and questioned her as to the reason why she Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 68 had not appeared earlier with the ’attestatie’ of such an early date as mentioned in the minutes of the previous Session, and that she declared as her reasons, among other things, not only her own and her daughter’s illness but also her indigent state; considering which the meeting decided to admit her to the Lord’s Table. An ’attestatie’ in favour of Pieter Schuyling who had come out from Middelburg, which was signed by the Rev. A. Gravezande, was tabled, and as no one raised any objections his name was duly noted for registration after the usual Church announcements. The service of Holy Communion was to be administered by the Rev. Mr. Meyer in place of the Rev. Mr. Fybrands, assisted by the elders Messrs. Blankert and Van Cuylenburg and the deacons Messrs. Homoet and Bax. The house visits of the native congregation was to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with the elder Mr. Raket and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz with the elder Mr. Holst, and the service of Holy Communion in the Wolvendaal Church was to be conducted by the. Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Baket and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Teyken and Scholts. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in one Magdalena Marcus, a Church member, widow of the recently deceased Sergeant Jan Adolph Seydeler, requesting that she may now be admitted as a guest at the Lord’s Table, for although she had lived in adultery with the said Sergeant she had since refrained from doing so and married him; and likewise one Leonora Dias, wife of Adriaan Perera, with a similar request, who had previously communicated at Cotta; and as no objections were raised by any member, their requests were granted on the provisional condition that they would hereafter conduct themselves irreproachably. There also came in the wife of a person from Malacca referred to in the minutes of the previous Session, regarding the baptism of whose daughter the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the deacon Mr. LaChom were delegated to investigate and report at the last Session, who now reported on their investigation that they were not satisfied with the validity of her daughter’s baptism, therefore it was accordingly decided and she was told that she should wait until the Consistory had communicated with the Church Consistory at Malacca and obtained confirmation of her child’s baptism from there, and the Scriba was directed to take action accordingly. Further, there came in one Dona Anna, requesting recognition of her Roman Catholic baptism, and she handed in a certificate of her baptism by a Roman Catholic priest named Franc: Gondualves and an affidavit signed by Melchior Salomon Gevers and Wilmina Robert: Gevers, who testified that they were present on the occasion when Anna was baptised by the Roman Catholic priest Fr. Gondualves in the year 1746: this case was referred to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg for further investigation. The Tombokeeper presented a list of persons who desired to declare their Confession of Faith; after which the meeting terminated. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst; and deacons: Jan LaChom, A. Homoet and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting on Tuesday the 13th of October l76l (p. 95)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, C. Sezilles, J.J. Meyer; Elder: P. Blankert; and deacon: J. LaChom (all indisposed). The meeting was opened with prayer, and the President said that it was convened in view of a letter which he had received; but before opening the letter the Political Commissaris, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 69

who was asked whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government, tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution containing the notification of the day of Prayer and Thanksgiving which read as follwows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Sunday the 13th of September 1761. ”Finally, since we are fully aware of the time when our return fleet is due to sail for the Netherlands, it was resolved on the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, to fix the date of public Thanksgiving and Prayer for Wednesday the 4th of November next, and in order that the same may be observed with due appreciation and reverence to our Almighty God and an implicit trust in His mercy and grace, it was decided to issue the following notification in this connection for due observance both here as well as in the dependent comptoirs. (Below): Certified by: J. Muller, sworn clerk. By order of the Government of this Island. As all reasonable human beings could generally pay their tribute (i.e. Respect) to their Creator in no fitter manner than when they, having followed the wisdom of His Providence, have learnt to perceive that everything depends on the right hand of His grace, so we Chris- tians are specially bound at all times respectfully to give our attention both to the daily as well as to the extraordinary circumstances of the times and especially to the ways in which God has dealt with us, in order that we may be led to understand the deeper meanings of things, sanctify our thoughts, and finally conduct ourselves in a Banner that is well pleasing to God; But, according to the demands of the extraordinary events and the special circumstances, so are we also called to practice our special obligations and religious exercises according to the demands of the extraordinary circumstances of the times, especially when we are favoured before the eyes of the whole world in such a visible manner with prosperity and afflicted with adversity, because these diverse happening’s (lit: results) demonstrate to us not only the justice (i.e. righteousness) of God, but also His goodness and his unlimited power to procreate and withhold the same, or alternate the same with others, in order that we may bow down before Him with thanksgiving and prayer, as being that which God really requires of us. If we then earnestly strive and at the same time consider how many blessings and judg- ments we have received and been chastised with at the hands of God in these our times, then are we indeed truly obliged to arouse ourselves thereto with pious attention and a spirit of Christian solicitude. Indeed the present critical events in Europe may really reasonably cause us some anxiety as it is of no little danger to the State of the Netherlands owing to the uncertainty as to whether the Republic could maintain its position longer without prejudice (i.e. detriment), apart from the violent discord between such mighty powers, although how- ever we are interested in being neutral and remaining in much desired peace, since among other things, a general peace and the entire security of the Company in particular, and the welfare of competing powers in these quarters depends on the same; and in order now not to mention several imminent (lit: approaching) and gradually aggravating judgments (lit: ordeals), which not only threaten the country and the Church, but rage around us so fiercely that our Ship of State, along with others, are tossed about and defended from the bellowing storm-winds and dreadful hurricanes of the sea, but are nevertheless yet wonderfully pre- served in peaceful calm from this danger, although we do not know How long this will last Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 70

and whether this tempest of God’s voice will not soon be a general one (i.e. common to all), even as we have here experienced in this Island; for as we seemed to be apprehensive over the state of affairs in Europe and its resultant effects on the interests of the Company in these quarters, even so have we during the past few months, to our regret, witnessed such troubles (lit: disturbances) in the country, which neither the Company or we have ever experienced before, but we are now so fortunately able to comprehend (lit: learn) therefrom that this has not happened without some purpose but for our discipline, and we perceive that it has been brought about through our own sinfulness, for in whichever manner we, on our part, may interpret (lit: look upon) such matters, we should always as well intentioned Christians remember that on God’s part He may have entirely different reasons which we should really seek after, and which will surely be found to be in the morals and conduct of the inhabitants of this land; and this is also the reason why the Lord has not only regarded us with disfavour (lit: dealt with us so meagrely) but even chastised us with so many trials (i.e. visitations), viz: that as He has admonished us by so many warnings and we have through our own disobe- dience ignored them (lit: let them pass unheeded), He therefore openly regards our ruin with ridicule and laughs when we become apprehensive with fear, as we have indeed experienced this on the one hand by a nearly unheard of drought (which has far surpassed those of the two previous years and would have caused no little scarcity of food if not that due provision for this exigency was made beforehand), and on the other hand, in the small pox which is still raging and has raged in the past year so virulently, as well as in the general heavy toll of mortality resulting therefrom both among the native inhabitants as well as among our people, whereby so many people were blown away from the streets as it were, many families if not entirely at least partly wiped out, and there are few homes in these days from which there are no corpses being carried out to their graves, or where there is no bitter mourning, so that the earth can almost no longer contain (lit: swallow up) the dead, and the depressed (i.e. dejected) countenance and even our sorrowful (lit: pathetic) mourning clothes, just to mention the same, witness as it were to call out to us: ”Pass by your house, for you will die”; and nevertheless, we must confess (lit: acknowledge) that we deserved much greater punishment and that we have even greater reason to be thankful that He has yet preserved us in the land of the living and not dealt with us according to our iniquities nor rewarded us according to our unrighteousness, but bestowed on us such an abundance of special and remarkable blessings, and that out of His singular and extraordinary goodness to us above all others; For if anyone has occasionally missed any of his needs which, owing to troubles in this land, were not available in abundance, it was however possible to be obtained elsewhere, and we have not lacked any of our essential needs, for although the heavens were shut so that there was no rain, and the earth could therefore and for other reasons not supply the necessary food, water was always at hand for the thirsty and the granaries were so well stocked with corn and other provisions and even still continue to be so more than ever before; if our military forces were weakened either through death or other causes, before we even gave it a thought we obtained relief from elsewhere which is even daily being increased; similarly too, navigation, commerce and our principal interests have maintained a steady state of progress; We should in no less a degree regard it as a singular goodness of our God that our return fleets, from the autumn of the year 1759 to the spring of the year 1760 have also safely arrived at their destined ports in the Fatherland, for all of which we should Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 71

thank God as tokens of His special heavenly mercies and blessings so graciously bestowed on us; but we have nevertheless been so insensible of all these favours, for instead of our rousing (i.e. awakening) ourselves on the one hand to a Spirit of true gratitude for all these favours, we have proved outs elves unworthy of the same through our ingratitude, forgetting and. disdaining the Rock of our Salvation, and on the other hand, we have also, instead of submitting ourselves to His chastisement, on the contrary been stubborn of heart, and only a few of us have truly been reflective and earnestly asked ourselves whether all these happenings were not due to our own wilful sins and that we were not the cause of such chastisement of God on this earth; Yea, instead of amending ourselves (lit: making ourselves better) we have grown even worse, and godlessness, indifference to serious matters, lasciviousness, wantonness, hardness of heart, envy, hate and enmity between each other from the lowest to the greatest have prevailed no less in the present than in former times but have on the contrary been on the increase, so that our sins cry out to the heavens and seem to demand (i.e. call for) graver judgments of the Lord, wherefore we have not without reason to feel apprehensive whether will continue to be merciful; But since a Christian Government is bound to lay to heart (i.e. attend to) both the moral as well as the social (lit: civic) welfare of its inhabitants, to stir up and set an example to the congregation in such gloomy times to seek after God’s countenance with deep humility and genuine repentance over out sins, and to kneel before His Holy Throne in fear, this being the only well proven means of stirring up the bowels of their hearts (lit: souls); so have we pondered over these matters today in the Council of Ceylon both earnestly and emphatically, and in view of the approaching time for the departure of our return fleet, which have to sail both from here as well as from elsewhere in none other than anxious (i.e. precarious) conditions on account of the still prevailing troubles in Europe, and we have deemed it to be extremely necessary to summon all Christians here to assemble most solemnly, and for this purpose we prescribe (lit: set apart) Wednesday the 4th of November next, according to the usual custom, to be observed as a day of general thanksgiving, fasting and prayer in all the comptoirs under this Government and its dependencies, in order that in all the Churches and meeting places there may be a devout celebration of public worship, when we could as penitent sinners fall down before the feet of Him, who in former tines, on the earnest supplications of a single individual, has shown and bestowed the wonders of His grace and everlasting tokens of goodness and mercy, and bow down before our God with due and holy reverence and awe, in a spirit of public confession of our many (lit: excessive) sins and acts of unrighteousness, and with true repentance and contrition over the same, ask for His forgiveness, thanking Him on the one hand for the many benefits which we can hereby remember and which each one of us has individually enjoyed, but on the other hand, humbly beseeching on behalf of the general need of the country and the Church both in our beloved Fatherland as well as in these parts, that He, out of the selfsame bounty and grace, would be pleased to stave off all well-deserved disasters and calamities (lit: plagues), and especially that He would be pleased not to further afflict this our land, but to stave off all due (i.e. impending) judgments, and that the troubles, which have already partly abated, may be further speedily terminated in a desirable manner, for the good name and the permanent survival of the Company; Besides, we should also in our prayers remember the Government which God has been Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 72 pleased to place over us both in our beloved Fatherland as well as in these quarters, and likewise too, the agriculture, commerce and navigation of the Company, especially the return fleet which is due to Sail or may already have sailed during the present ’return’ season both from here as well as from Batavia, China and Bengal, that they may arrive at their destines harbours free from storm and danger; And since we have off and on in our annual decrees set out in detail the precise procedure for the service of thanksgiving and prayer on this special ccasion, we would therefore not only hereby order the repetition of the same, but also at the same time most earnestly and strongly recomend that our prayers and thanksgiving should be adapted to the prevailing circumstances of the times and conditions, not doubting that if all true Zionists and genuine callers upon God will in their daily prayers and unremitting approach before the Throne of Grace also meanwhile ardently remember the safety of our land and the Church; And in order that each one might daily prepare himself beforehand for this obligatory day of thanksgiving, penitence and prayer, it was further resolved to order that the same be proclaimed from the pulpit on the 1st of November next in all the Churches under this Government and on the following Mondays from the balcony (or verandah) in the presence of the Fiscal and the Commissioners of the Court of Justice, in order that thereby the intended pious object of the same may be achieved, and that the service Of worship may be strictly observed both in the morning as well as in the afternoon, and also that all trade and business may be suspended and cease (lit: be at a stand still), upon the penalties prescribed therefore in the former placcaats . (Below): Colombo the 13th day of September 1761. By order of His Excellency the Hon. Jan Schreuder, Councillor Extraordinary of the Netherlands Indies, Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. Certified by: D.W. van Damast Limberger, first sworn clerk. A11 of which was noted by the Session for due compliance. Hereafter, the letter was read out, which was found to be from the Classes of Delft, Delfsland and Schieland, dated at Rotterdam the 16th of September 1760, enclosing the synodal acts of the same year held at the Hague in the month of ..., which was noted for acknowledgment and necessary action, after first addressing our Honourable Governor on behalf of the respected Synod in regard to the fulfilment of their aim referred to in the said letter... XXXX (n.b. Some pages containing the record of the rest of the proceedings of this Session, and apparent also a portion (the first part) of the record of the proceedings of the subsequent meeting of the Consistory, are definitely missing here from this volume. The next page of the original record in this volume reads as below). That the Reverend Bretheren may be pleased to give their further consideration to the opinion; (i.e. reasons) which they have previously expressed in regard to the said case of the Proponent Johannes Toly and his promotion to the office of Predikant , and to examine the letter from; the Church at Batavia to the Church Consistory of Ceylon to see whether a satisfactory agreement could be arrived at and what further action could be taken in regard to his case. In order now to avoid all discussion among the bretheren it was requested and recommended that a way (lit: a method) be devised in order that, following the practice adopted everywhere in the Churches in the Indies, the Political Administration may not be held up, the necessary information regarding Church business (lit: correspondence) which has been conducted there, and also that all such letters should be sent under cover of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 73

Political letters to ensure greater security, with the assurance that in these proposals care should be taken to see that peace and goodwill is maintained between the Consistory and the Government and that the honour and respect of both are duly maintained; But if the bretheren cause any difficulties in this connection, the Political Commissaris shall inform Their Reverences that he does not intend to argue with them in the matter as it is a set rule, but it shall in that case be referred for the decision of His Excellency the Governor. General and the Council of the Indies, who shall be notified that their orders are required on the same. That Their Reverences shall please see that catechising both of the old as well as the young where it was being done should commence once again, since this may be neglected as has often been the case, and which the bretheren Burenus and Oirschot, to the great satisfaction of the Council, considered to be essential and had already been put into effect, so that by doing so a uniform method will be followed in the cities in this Island, and the honour of God and the Christian religion would spread, and likewise also that at Galle and Cochin the Consistory be strengthened with two deacons or bretheren and that at Jaffna too they should follow the same arrangement in this respect. (n.b. The context of the last clause in the, text is not quite clear). And since it has been observed that some individual Predikants at Jaffna have taken it upon themselves to introduce certain matters outside the orders of the Church and the Government which are in direct opposition to the principles of the administration and the decisions of the Consistory of the year 1659, that Their Reverences should work out a means (lit: find out a method) in this connection, whereby the same may be avoided in the future, and in case it is deemed to be necessary for any special reasons for the further interests of Christianity, to further amplify the instruction now imparted in the schools in the interests of the advancement of religion, that His Excellency and the Council consider that in such case the bretheren of the respective Churches in Ceylon should first confer over the same, and that the Churches in Ceylon, after such conference and agreement in the matter, the Political Council would, with the approval of His Excellency the Governor General and the Council of the Indies, be ready and willing to assist Their Reverences, and to issue such orders to the School Board as may be necessary for the progress of religion (i.e. the Church) and the schools. That the ’attestatie’ brought by the Rev. Mr. Hey... should be examined in order to decide whether it is not conflicting and objectionable in respect of his calling by the Church and the Government here and at Galle. That, in order to avoid any frivolous objections (lit: cavil or wrangling) the bretheren should register or renew the Act of the year 1659 regarding the appointment and transfer of Predikants in their present meeting. Since it has been observed that without (the use of) the native languages it would be difficult to propagate Christianity if the bretheren did not give their attention to learn the same, we therefore offer all necessary assistance, and it would consequently be desirable, to pay attention to this and to consider in which manner the Portuguese language could be discouraged (lit: belittled) since the enemies of our religion have too much of an advantage over us; on which proposal of the bretheren the following decisions were made:- With the assurance of general satisfaction over the opportunity afforded and the offer of all assistance to the Consistory, the ’pros’ and ’cons’ (lit: reasons and counter reasons) Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 74 regarding the case of Johannes Tholy were carefully deliberated, and especially since it was directly contrary to the general feelings (i.e. opinions) of the Church in Ceylon (as will be observed in more detail from the draft of the letter proposed to be sent to the churches of Batavia and the corresponding Synods and Classes in the Fatherland), it was finally resolved to permit (i.e. allow) the said Mr. Tholy who was sent out to us from Batavia as being qualified for service for service in this Church to preach occasionally, adding that, in case the revered Synods and Classes to whom we have already referred and would further refer this matter, with the knowledge of (i.e. prior notice to) our Government misunderstand us (lit: think amiss), that we protest against the same and plead that we shall not be responsible, hoping at the same time that so long as the said Mr. Tholy will satisfactorily conduct himself among us, we will promote him to the office of Predikant on receipt of further orders from the Fatherland. Further, that the Church where His Excellency the Admiral has given his advice over matters concerning that Church in particular decisions and orders can be administered with- out reference to the other churches and that its affairs could in all respects be conducted accordingly, but that in all the Ceylon and Malabar churches and even in all churches in the Indies in general as a rule, especially in such problems as, for example, the case of Johannes Tholy, it is considered that no particular church has the power to make any decision thereon without reference to the other Churches, and much less that its decisions should be binding on the other churches, since the freedom of expression of opinion of all other churches could go by default thereby. By way of further clarification, in case His Excellency the Admiral, after communicating with the churches where he may be present shall see fit (lit: be pleased) to transfer a Predikant , that the same shall be binding provided that it is, as far as it is possible and practicable, satisfactory to the Predikant who is to be transferred and also to the Church from which he may be transferred, as in the case of all such similar exigencies. It was also unanimously resolved that we confirm that we shall always be disposed (i.e. willing) to furnish any necessary information of all letters which are sent by the Church Consistory to the Synods and the classes in the Fatherland or even to other corresponding churches in the Indies in the following manner: namely, before the letters are sent out they should first be read out in the Church Consistory in the presence of the Political Commissaris, and also that an oral report with further details (if such is required) shall be furnished to His Excellency the Governor by the Reverend President and a Commissioner (i.e. deputy) from the Church Consistory, and also that, for purposes of greater security, the same should better be forwarded along with the correspondence of the Political Council, in compliance with the 5th Article of the instructions to Predikants , provided however that such letters as are opened, read and received outside the churches could not, be regarded as our business, all the more since such letters do not fall within the category of the cited Article, and that it is also contrary to the 89th Article prescribed in the order of the churches in Batavia and approved by the Honourable Governor General Mr. Van Diemen and the Council of the Indies in the year 1643, and finally also because it does not in the least affect the Classes in the Fatherland, who are not known to correspond with the churches in the Indies, and also, as far as we are aware, in no church in the Indies are not only the Scriba but also all the members of the Church Consistory forbidden to divulge any information outside the Consistory and also to bring out of the Consistory any letters or documents, whereby Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 75

however the Rev. President or his colleagues are not precluded from making a report of the proceedings to His Excellency, and this decision is in no email measure supported by what is prescribed in the minutes of the meeting of the General Consistory of Ceylon held on the morning of the ?6th of February 1659 regarding cases where matters arise which are of both a political and ecclesiastical nature or in such matters where the Church may need the advice and the help of the Government (lit: the Political Council), that the desired (i.e. necessary) extract should be furnished, but that in cases where it is purely an ecclesiastical matter, the decision rests entirely with the Consistory. As regards catechising of both the old as well as the young, it was deemed to be both reasonable and a Christian obligation and a course that should appropriately be observed (i.e. pursued) by all the Churches in Ceylon, and thanks to His Excellency the Admiral and his honourable Council, who have been pleased to prescribe such wholesome proposals in regard to the support extended to the Church Consistory by the addition of two Deacons, it is considered that the Deacons who were wrongfully (i.e. illegally) removed by the Rev. Mr. Maxebel at Jaffna without the approval of the Government and the bretheren elders hare should again rejoin their Consistory. As regards the introduction of any doctrinal matters into the Church outside the Church and Government orders, it was resolved that the formulary of questions compiled by the Rev. Mr. Baldaeus and later accepted by ether churches which, according to the orders of the Government and the Church, were subsequently approved at Batavia, should be taught in all the country schools, and that no individual Predikant or Church shall. Hereafter be permitted to wake any alterations thereto without prior communication with the Government and the public churches in Ceylon, and that we do not frame any further formularies, and that we heartily thank His Excellency for his gracious and godly assistance in this connection. The Rev. Mr. Heymen’s attestatie having been read out, it was resolved that the church at Jaffna be informed that the Government as well as the churches at Galle and Colombo have called the Rev. Mr. Heynen, and that it is regretted that this has happened with no little disadvantage to the interests of Christianity. As regards the 4th article of the Ceylon Church orders which were passed in the year 1659 regarding the sending out and the transfer of Predikants , it was unanimously resolved to reply that we and the other bretheren mentioned gladly agree to the same. As regards the study (i.e. learning) of the native languages, it was unanimously resolved that as our sole object is the advancement of Christianity and as this cannot satisfactorily be achieved without a knowledge (lit: study) of these languages, that we gladly agree thereto, with our grateful thanks for the assistance offered in this connection and in regard to our future needs in this respect, since we shall, as presumed, always be in need of dictionaries, grammars and the services of capable interpreters. As regards the discouragement (lit: declinature) of the Portuguese language, the bretheren were of opinion that this could be effected in the following manner: (1). The Dutch schoolmasters in the cities shall especially forbid the children to speak Portuguese in the schools, and order that they do not even converse in Portuguese among themselves upon the penalty of being punished. (2). The country schoolmasters shall also be required to permit the use of (i.e. tolerate) only the Sinhalese and the Tamil languages. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 76

(3). Parents should also be kindly requested not to converse in Portuguese either with their children or with their servants. (4). The Predikants who already use the Portuguese language in their churches shall restrict themselves to the Dutch language both in their sermons (lit: preaching) as well as in the reading of the formularies, and conduct their catechism classes in the usual questions in Sinhalese and Tamil through (i.e. with the help of) Sinhalese and Tamil interpreters in their presence in the first instance until such time as they are competent to do so themselves, and also administer the order of baptism in Sinhalese and Tamil themselves. (5). All the members of the native congregation too and those who have a fair knowledge of Dutch should also be earnestly exhorted always to attend at the preaching of the Dutch Predikants , and those who have not yet reached the stage of adults and also their children, and even those Who are unable to speak the Dutch language, should be exhorted to attend the weekly Dutch catechism classes. (6). Also that, in the future, the marriage service of Dutch soldiers who marry native women and the baptisms of their children should be conducted in the Dutch language. It was also resolved that, as regards the ... churches, the rites of the usual Liturgy of the Church shall be strictly observed and followed, and that the preparatory services on Fridays shall be regularly held. Also that all Predikants who shall come out hereafter shall subscribe to everything that has hitherto been resolved by the Ceylon Government before they are admitted as members of the Ceylon churches. (Signed) Anthonius Scherius ( pro tem [ pore ] President), Jacobus Burenus (pro tem[pore] Scriba ), Arnoldus Oirschot, v.d.m., Servatius Clavius, eccles. m., Dibblee, elder, en ... After invoking God’s holy name, the Admiral read out to the Council all the points which were deliberated and decided on by the brotheren Predikants at the extraordinary meeting held at Colombo on the 14th of March, and after due deliberation it was resolved to incorporate the same fully in these minutes and to make a note of His Excellency’s and the Council’s decision on each one of them severally, and to refer the same through the Political Commissaris to the Reverend Bretheren for their reply. On the first point regarding the promotion of Joannes Tholy to the office of Predikant , a reply is to be sent to the Bretheren that we will forward to the Governor General and the Council of the Indies a true report of the proceedings held by Their Reverences, adding that we cannot but presume that Their Reverences have made a just decision in this matter. On the second point regarding the decision concerning any business between the Church and the State, it was resolved that this Article was already generally applied and has hitherto not only given occasion for quarrels and disputes, but that it also adversely affects the authority of the Government, who are not obliged to consult other churches in case of any exigencies, and particularly those which cannot be postponed (i.e. delayed), or even to await their advice in writing, but that when the Governor makes his decision with the advice of the Church where he is present (i.e. stationed), the other churches should be satisfied with (lit: acquiesce in) the same, according to the practice hitherto followed everywhere in the Indies and especially observed in Ceylon without any opposition; but so far as the case of Joannes Tholy is concerned, the Governor and Council regarded the case with Their Reverences as an extraordinary one which could be subjected to postponement (i.e. delay), and therefore this special meeting was principally convened so that the honour (i.e. esteem) of the Church as well as the Government was preserved (i.e. maintained), and except for the fact that by Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 77 the additional remark and further clarification much obscurity was removed, His Excellency and the Council were satisfied with the same, and replied to Their Reverence’s request that the Predikants be transferred as far as possible with their consent (lit: satisfaction) as nothing else was more to be expected from a Christian Government than that matters should at all times be handled with discretion and that no changes should ever take place unless circumstances necessitate the same (lit: other than what really becomes necessary through circumstances), and that the bretheren may rest assured that we shall always uphold the honour (i.e. esteem) of the Church and do our best to satisfy the wishes of the bretheren as far as it lies in our power to do so. As regards the necessary communication (i.e. reports) of the proceedings of the Church Consistory, letters and documents, after discussion of this matter, it was resolved that the Governor and the Council would be satisfied with the decision, provided however especially that if the Governor or the Commander of the Province wishes to have any extracts which he may deem to be necessary in addition to the usual report, that the same should by no means be refused, regarding the annexed 39th Article of the Governor General Anthony Van Diemen (of blessed memory) in the year 1643 relating to the secrecy of documents to be by no means applicable in this case, but only to the Scriba and the members of the Church Consistory at Batavia, so that in that Article the Government is not precluded from having the necessary Information, as the same too may not be presumed and much less practised, since the churches in the Fatherland too are by no means competent to make any decision in this connection which may tend to be prejudicial to the State, apparently as there was no reason to doubt (anything that is mentioned in Their Reverences’ personal reports), so in this, case too there is no doubt, as far as the order of 1659 is concerned, that it is to be understood that the same must be regarded as a matter for the discretion of the Government authorities, who do not usually ask for (lit: desire to know) the secret proceedings of the Church that do not concern the Government or to know the private matters or Censura of Church members who are guilty of sins, and the Governor and the Council too consider such additional details to be unnecessary. As regards catechism classes, the reinstatement of the deacons, the fixing (lit: making binding) of the doctrines (i.e. tenets) at present in use, and that these (as proposed) should not be altered by any individual Predikant : in regard to all these matters was understood (i.e. considered) that the Governor and the Council do express their great pleasure thereover, as being a matter that is most essential for conforming to the good relations (lit: principles) between the churches and the Government As regards the ’attestatie’ the Rev. Mr. Heymen, the Governor and Council considered this matter to be most objectionable (i.e. disturbing), reserving their decision thereon and stating that the matter needs amendment (i.e. redress) according to the circumstances. The fact that the bretheren and the Church Consistories confirm that they observe the 41st Article in the proceedings of the year 1659 regarding the transfer of Predikants was considered to be appropriate in the interests of peace and harmony, and the bretheren were commended (lit: lauded) for their Christian fervour, and especially for their promise to learn the native languages, without which no good results can be hoped for or expected, and it was therefore accordingly resolved, in order to assist (lit: support) the bretheren in this important and essential matter, that a capable interpreter of his own choice and one that he approves of be attached to each Predikant in the place of his respective church, who shall serve him and travel with him everywhere, and any of the scholarchs shall not have Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 78

the power to withhold this privilege from His Reverence or to prevent him from travelling; and in order further to encourage the bretheren to travel (i.e. to do their circuits), each of them shall be eligible to have a horse for his personal use at the Company’s expense and also the use of an ’ andol ’ or palanquin with the services of the usual coolies; and since only the Tamil language is spoken at Jaffna, so the Tamil language only will be necessary at that place; but as there are both Sinhalese and Tamils at Colombo, one of the bretheren should learn the Tamil and the other the Sinhalese language as it would be too much (lit: difficult) for him to learn both languages at the same time; and the same procedure shall be followed at Galle although very little Tamil is spoken there. The advice given by the bretheren regarding the discouragement of the use of the Por- tuguese language was very favourably received by the Governor and the Council on nearly all the points, with the addition thereto that no slaves shall wear hats or long hair unless they can converse fairly in Dutch, which shall be a matter for the decision of the Commissioners of Marriage Causes who shall be commissioned therefor, and for this purpose the Placcaat of the year 1659 are re-enacted in accordance with the example of the Batavian Statutes, and the Scholarchs too, on their part, should take good care in this connection to observe all these points according to the instructions which are added as an annexe for Scholarchs; but as far as the old native Christians within the cities are concerned, who are expected to learn Dutch, and those who have hitherto been catechised in the Portuguese language, the Governor and the Council consider that they should continue to be catechised in Portuguese as they may generally have already been so instructed in the country areas outside the cities in addition to the prescribed formularies, and this shall be continued until such time as the bretheren acquire a better (lit: more advanced) knowledge of the native languages. It was also decided that the principal items of Church business dealt with since the extraor- dinary session of the 14th of this month be notified to all the churches of the Government for their compliance with t he same, and that Special Commissioners shall be sent to Galle and Jaffna to see that the respected Church Boards at these places affably acquiescein the present decisions (i.e. orders), and also that, for the greater satisfaction and pleasure of the Council here, a certified (lit: authentic) copy of all these decisions be forwarded, and also that, in case the bretheren deem it to be necessary, matters shall be treated confidentially (lit: as secret) both between them and us until such time as the above-mentioned churches could be brought over to agree to the same; and it was also hereby resolved to approve Their Reverences decision that no Predikants who shall hereafter come over for service here in any church shall be admitted for service in God’s Church unless they confirm at first that they would comply with these Church orders. Finally, it was also decided that the bretheren be thanked for their good endeavours, and that they be assured in the name of His Excellency the Governor and the Council of all possible assistance as mentioned above in the carrying out of the aforesaid proposals; whereupon the Session terminated in peace and goodwill to the satisfaction of both the Church and the State with the blessing and peace of God Almighty. Bras passed and resolved in the Castle of Colombo on the aforementioned date. (Signed): R. van Goens ..., Cornelis Strick, Councillor and Secretary, M. de Meester, C. Lastman, J. Egenach. (In the margin): I hereby confirm that I have read and certify the above. Colombo the l3th day of April 1688. (Signed): A. Boothaes. (Below): Certified by D. van Damast Limberger, provisional 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin); Read over by J.H. Muller and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 79

collated by D.A. Miller. Extract of the resolutions passed between the 30th of October and the 1st of December 1670 in the Council of Ceylon (p. 108) The Council, on this 17th day of November, having considered that the Reverend bretheren Predikants , notwithstanding the decision of the Government and the Consistory during the period 13th March to 13th April 1668, which was agreed to and signed by them, have nevertheless, contrary to the requisition (lit: declaration) made by the Government thereon, refused to furnish information and a report even to His Excellency the Governor particularly stating that they are under no obligation to send any reports and much less any copies or extracts of their proceedings either to the Governor or his Council without the special advice (i.e. orders) of the Classes in Holland, as the Political Commissaris who is present at the Sessions has heard (i.e. is aware of) the same, which they consider to be quite adequate (i.e. sufficient); but considering the fact, that through malpractices, either under the cloak of the Church or otherwise, such matters and ideas seem to creep in which later result in grave consequences, as experience (as God knows) have proved to be more often than not detrimental to the country and the towns, whereby the progress (lit: bloom or flourishing) of piety, experience and zeal has been a matter of much concern (lit: watchfulness); and that consequently the bretheren here are inclined not only to conduct themselves irresponsibly and to flout the authority and the honour (i.e. esteem) of the Government, but also by such licence give occasion (lit: furnish the means) thereby for evil-minded and ambitious Ministers (lit: teachers) which God Almighty forbid in course of time to conduct themselves in a manner that is detrimental to the interests of the Church and the State, besides the fact that experience has shown that the letters of the younger and less experienced Ministers (lit: teachers) are often found to be sophisticated (lit: full of sophistry), which is not possible to be understood or committed to memory by those who hear them, as a consequence of which it was the general opinion of everybody that the refusal to send the due reports, copies or extracts to the Government was a serious lapse, and really an insult (lit: act of disobedience) to the Government, and also that if it is condoned (lit: given the blind eye) it would not be possible to maintain pure doctrine and good discipline in the Church: but since we, apart from this issue, have had good relations (lit: a good understanding) with the bretheren, and further as this matter could well afford to await the decision of Their Honourable our Lords Superiors or Their Excellencies at Batavia, it was resolved not to have any quarrel (lit: cavilling) or disputes thereover with the bretheren for the present, but to solicit the orders of Their Honourables our Lords Superiors and Their Excellencies at Batavia in this connection; and besides this, having also observed that the maintenance of (regular) correspondence, and the forwarding of Church letters, etc., as Your Honours have also been most disrespectful to the Government authority at the aforesaid sessions of the Consistory in arguing there over the case of the Rev. Johannes Tholy according to each one’s whims and fancies, which really should never have taken place, since Your Honours, in no less a degree than ourselves, should be aware from the practice of several years past of the great disinclination of the said Consistory to admit Proponents to the Ceylon churches, and in order to support you with our lawful authority and thus avoid any semblance of improper conduct (lit: machinations), we have sent the Rev. Mr. Tholy back to you to return to Ceylon with our special instructions and express orders that he should be employed as Proponent with a view to his promotion in due course, on his giving proof of zeal in his work, to the permanent office of Predikant , and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 80

in order that Your Honours may better understand our particular wish and desire and not underestimate, qualified Predikants , we added thereto that Your Honours should see that with the Government of the Indies there should be no further argument in regard to the case of the said Mr. Tholy, and that there should be no further misconception in the matter; but Your Honours, ignoring (lit: setting aside) all due respect, have readily acquiesced in (lit: confirmed) the decision of the aforesaid Consistory, namely: that the should be referred to the respective Synods and Classes in the Netherlands, and meanwhile resolved that (lit: permitted) the Rev. Mr. Tholy should preach as a temporary Proponent and no more; and in order that Your Honuors may better understand our definite and form intention, we therefore hereby declare the said resolution and procedure which has been adopted in the case of Mr. Tholy to be ill-advised and derogatory, and that it should never have been permitted that resolutions of such consequence should be tolerated under our administration, and even less so since we have been authorised by our Lords Superiors, by their letter of the 14th of May 1667, to send out occasionally (lit: now and then) young theologians as ’krantoezoekers’ and we have also teen specially authorised to promote and employ them at first to the office of Proponent and thereafter as Predikants on their having attained the necessary qualifications therefor, which we have promptly complied with and shall steadfastly continue to do so, and actually even have to refer to the Fatherland such cases where promotion and appointment to the offices of Proponent or Predikant have been deferred by the authority of the Church in the Indies, on which the further authority of the Synods and Classes may be deeded to be desirable in order that we may fully conform with the opinions of the Church of Batavia. The good man, the Rev. Mr. Tholy, then, who (with Your Honour’s special consent) was sent back once again by, the bretheren to Batavia, and now again in Cylon has been so vexed and harassed to no purpose whatsoever, seem to have endured the same so remarkably, and further seeing that no respect whatever has been paid even to the recommendations and the orders of the Supreme Government or that any real benefit can accrue thereby, we understand that, being overcome with frustration and having taken seriously to heart the aforementioned vexations which he could no longer bear, has now did (lit. departed to his rest in the Lord) to our very great regret, because of the useful (lit: good) services which God’s Church could have had the privilege of enjoying through his talents and knowledge of languages, which is in the fact a matter of fortunate mortification for some of the bretheren in Ceylon because they have so remarkably (i.e. vigourously) expressed their resentment to us as they would otherwise perhaps have occasion to make their requests personally in regard to what they now wish to have in writing, and we also consider that this should really serve as an example. (Below): Certified by D. van Damast Limberger, provisional 1st sworn Muller. The only question raised was whether the marginal remarks on the aforesaid proposals (lit: plan) should be read out annually, whereupon the Political Commissaries who was consulted about the intention of the Government in the matter, promised that he would make a report at a subsequent session on this, as well as on certain existing Church practices which contravene the directions laid down in the said plan. Hereupon the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Meyer, and the office of Scriba was temporarily handed over to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje; And, as regards the notification of the handing over of the accounts of the Poor Fund, it was resolved to record herein the decision made by Circular which read as follows:- Notification . Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 81

The congregation is hereby notified that at 9 a.m. on the morning of Wednesday next the 27th of this month, in the Church here, the outgoing Deacons will hand over to the present Deacons, in the presence of Special Commissioners of the Government, the Court of Justice and the Consistory of this place, a due account and transfer of their administration, income and expenditure of the Poor Funds, during their tenure of office, together with a balance sheet as at 31st August last; so anyone who wishes to be present at the same at the said time and place is welcome as usual to do so. (Below): Colombo the 23rd of February 1760. (Lower); By Order of His Excellency Jan Schreuder, extraordinary Councillor of the Nether lands Indies and Gouverneur and Director of the Island of Ceylon, with the dependencies thereof. (Signed): B. van Damast Limberger, provisional 1st sworn clerk. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he had conducted the special inspection of the Dutch schools here along with the Elder Mr. Schokman, and by God’s grace, had found the youth to be fairly satisfactory, and that he had also administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum on the 4th of March, and had debarred one individual from participation at the Lord’s Supper on account of his bad behaviour. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz too informed the meeting that on his present circuit he had administered Holy Communion only at Cotta and that he was unable to do so at the, two other places; and the Scriba too said that he was unable to do so as he was not able to obtain the services of the coolies. The house visits were arranged for as follows: The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Blankert. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. J Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Schokman. The city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Brouwer. The circuit of the outposts was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Scriba , and the special school visits, as usual, to the outgoing President and the elder Mr. Brouwer, as also the celebration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and Catharina Cardoes presented a certificate of her Roman Catholic baptism and requested that the same may be recognised to enable her to make her confession of faith to us, and her request which was reasonable was allowed by the Session. The Tombokeeper too came in and had nothing special to report, and the meeting termi- nated with thanksgiving to God. (Signed): The Revs. H. Philipsz ( pro tem [ pore ] Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Bauwer, L.A. Schokman, P. Blankert and S. Van Lier; Deacons: J.K. Schutte and J.K. Simon. (N.B. Some pages of the record of the first part of the minutes of the subsequent meeting appear to be missing here in this volume: the rest read as follows, besides this, the pages following are wrongly bound). XXXX it was decided ... by the President Scriba and one elder, namely Brother van Cuylenburg, on the day for the receipt of the normal reports as representatives of this Consistory in a special manner, with the hearty and due expression of our greetings to similarly deal with as usual according to the Synodal Acts. Further, the minutes of the previous meeting were read, approved and signed by the members present, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje tabled an ’attestatie’ in favour of Michiel Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 82

Coning, a ship’s Pastor, which was accepted without any opposition. Whereupon, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta and at Kalutara; and the elder Mr. Raket stood up and requested this Consistory to admit to baptism three of his servants (children), viz: Debora, Solomon and Alexander, whose parents, especially the mother named Rosemont appears, from one of the certificates now tabled by him in respect of a child of the same mother, to have been baptised, which should on this opportunity (i.e. incidentally) be incorporated in the native baptism register: which reasonable request was readily accord to Hereupon, the burgher named Christiaen Tellis Perera, who was summon by the President to appear before this Consistory, came in, and on being told by the President that, according to a recent extract of the respected orders of the Government that there should in future be in office in the Church and school at Wolvendaal one Lesson-reader, schoolmaster and catechist in the Tamil language, one lesson-reader, schoolmaster and catechist in the Sinhalese language, and one Dutch school- master who should also at the same time perform the duties of Sexton, Mr. Perera applied for the lastmentioned post, namely: that of Sexton and Dutch schoolmaster of the Wolven- daal Church and school; whereupon the Session resolved to respectfully recommend to the Government with an extract of these proceedings his request for appointment to this post as he had already been examined and possessed the necessary qualifications therefor, and also his earnest request to be paid the salary of Lesson-reader in which post he has faithfully served, in view of his poor circumstances. Further there came in Adriaan Casiechitty and Casper Casiechitty, the request made by them at the previous session on the 21st of September namely: for appointment to the office of Tamil Catechist at Wolvendaal, on which it was resolved to examine these two applicants together at the next Session and to recommend the one who was found to be more suitable to the Government. Finally, there came in one Anna, regarding whose Roman Catholic baptism the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg were deputed at the last Session to inquire into, who now reported in this connection that the; find on investigation that she appears to have been baptised, whereupon her repeated and earnest request that her baptism be recognised was allowe by the Session on this condition, namely: that no sooner she marries Domin Dias by whom she has already had a child, she should make her confession of faith together with both of them at the service of Holy Communion, which she readily agreed to do; and the meeting terminated thereafter with thanksgiving to God. ( Signed ). The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz, S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fy- brandsz; Elders: S.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; Deacons: Jan Lachom, J.B. Teyken and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting of 12th November 1761 (p. 115)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, J.H. Sezilles (indisposed); Elders: P. Blankert (on official duty) and W.P. Van Cuylenburg (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that he had convened the meeting on account of a letter which he had received, and as the Political Commissaris had no report to make on behalf of the Government, the letter, on being opened and read, was found to come from the bretheren at Galle and contained their report on the state of the churches and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 83

the schools within that City, together with a declaration (i.e. statement) that on account of the present disturbances among the inhabitants it was not possible for them to proceed into the country to ascertain the state of the churches and the schools in the districts of Galle and Matara: all of which was duly noted for record and reply in due course. The President informed the meeting that according to the decision at the previous meeting, he and the Scriba with the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg, as representatives of this Consistory, in compliance with the request of the Classes of Delft, Delfland and Schieland on behalf of the Synod of South Holland, had conveyed their greetings to His Excellency the Governor with an expression of the hearty thanks in the name of the said respected Synod, for His Excellency’s kind and able direction and care over God’s Church here and conveyed Their Honours’ blessings on His Excellency’s dear self and his family, and that His Excellency had thereupon said that he had really done nothing more than what he is obliged to do (lit: what is expected of him), and that he would always consider it a privilege to serve the interests of God’s Church as far as possible; all of which it was resolved to mention when replying to these letters, requesting the said Synodal Classes to inform the respected Synod of South Holland of the same. Further, considering that the time was now at hand for the drafting of the letters to the Fatherland and that arrangements should therefore be made for the same and as to what matters should be mentioned in the letters, it was resolved, in regard to the former, that this work should be entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld as it was his turn to do so, which he gladly undertook to do; and as regards the latter, namely: what matters should be mentioned in the letters, it was resolved to await the other reports which are yet due (i.e. expected) from Jaffna and Trincomalee before writing to the Fatherland. Those who had request to make were then summoned, and there came in Maria Snares and Pasqualla Mendis, and on being question by this Consistory, Maria Suares and Pasquella Mendis, and on being question by this Consistory, they mentioned that both of them recently (namely: when they applied to this Consistory to have the firstnamed person’s wife’s (Sic ?) daughter’s baptism in Our Church at Malacca recognised, as will be seen in the Minutes session of the 21st and 30th of September), in reply to the question to which religion her daughter Usemia Rodak belonged, unfortunately said that she was admitted by baptism to the Reformed Church instead of saying that she was baptised in the Roman Catholic Church there, which may have been due to her great excitement, and Maria Suares and Pasqualle Mendis requested therefore not only that this lapse on their part be condoned, but also that the Roman Catholic baptism of Usemia Rodak be recognised, and that she may be permitted to make her confession of faith before us, so that after due observance of her further conduct and behaviour, the Session would be in a position to grant their request in regard to Usemia Rodak as soon as she is in a position to show that she has complied with her promise regarding Reformed Christine doctrine, while in the meantime her conduct and behaviour too could be observed. Further, there came In one Salomon Fernando, the Sinhalese schoolmaster of the Wolvendaal school, who requested to inform this Consistory that he had now performed the duties of this office for twelve long years according to the best of his ability, and since then not only worked as Sinhalese Catechist in the Wolvendaal Church, but that his services have also been employed there up to date as Lesson-reader and also for instructing those who desired to make their confession of faith; in these circumstances, since the services of a separate Lesson-reader, schoolmaster and catechist for the Wolvendaal Church had now Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 84

become more necessary than before, he also requested that he be appointed to the said office of Lesson-reader, and catechist at Wolvendaal on the salary of that post. The Consistory, having deliberated thereover, and having observed that he was the most suitable person for the post and that his request cannot therefore be ignored, however, considering that the Rev. Mr. Meyer had at the session of the 21st of September requested that this office be given to the Sinhalese schoolmaster of the Seminary who had now shown greater zeal, (i.e. enthusiasm) in his work, it was resolved to ask him to wait (i.e. delay his request) for a further month and he was informed accordingly. Proceeding further to the examination of Adriaan Casiechitty and Casparus Casiechitty, both of whom had applied for the post of Tamil lesson-reader and catechist in the Wolvendaal Church, and after examining them for some time in the fundamentals of our Reformed Christian doctrines and testing them in reading and in singing, it was found that the former person Adriaan Casiechitty was rather more efficient in the Christian truths than the latter, which was specially confirmed by the Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Ondaatje, except that he should have more practice in singing, so the meeting, desiring that a capable person should be appointed to this post, but considering that no more suitable person was available at present, resolved to recommend the request of the abovementioned Adriaan Casiechitty to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings, with a request, that it may receive their favourable consideration. ( Signed ). The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fybrandsz, J.J. Meyer; Elders: B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; Deacons; J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.R. Scholtz.

Ordinary meeting of 28th December 1761 (p. 117)

Absent: The Political Commissaris, The Rev. G. Potken, Elder W.P. Van Cuylenburg (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make arrangements as usual for the services of Holy Communion; but before doing so, he tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which read as follows: Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the l7th of November 1761. ”It was decided to appoint the burgher Christiaen Tellis Perera, who has been recom- mended by the Consistory here in their resolution of the 13th October last, to the vacancy of Dutch schoolmaster and Sexton of the Church at Wolvendaal, in accordance with the decision of this Council at its meeting on the 9th September last, to fill the said vacancy on a salary of 5 rixdollars per month in terms of the aforementioned resolution as from the 1st of July this year, since which date he has officiated in this post. (Below): Certified by: W.G. Jansen, sworn clerk.” Which extract having been noted for due compliance, the President tabled a further letter addressed to this Consistory which, on being opened, was found to contain the annual report on the state of the churches and the schools at Trincoinalee, dated the 12th of November: which letter was noted for record and due reply. Further, proceeding to the confirmation of the minutes of the previous session, the Presi- dent reported that Adriaan Casiechitty, at this Session, had expressed his disinterestedness and disinclination to perform the duties of this office, and since there was little to expect Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 85 from such unwillingness, it was resolved to make a final decision in the matter after further deliberation at the next available opportunity. Hereafter, the minutes were read and signed, and the President handed over his office to the Rev. Mr. Philippus and the Scriba handed over his charge with all its accessories to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits: The 1st block - The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankert. The 2nd block - The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Raket. The old city - The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Holst. The service of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum, which could not be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz owing to disturbances in the country, was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Raket, and that at the outposts to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz, the latter of whom reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Panadura on the 27th of September last. Finally, the President tabled an ’attestatie’ in favour of Mrs. Aurelia Stavorens, wife of the surveyor Mr. Wantzel, which was accepted for due announcement and registration. The meeting then terminated with the pronouncement of the blessing. Signed : The Revs. K. Philipsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, J.J. Meyer, W . J. Ondaatje; Elders: G.E. Holst, B.J. Raket; Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan Lachom and J.E. Schultz.

Censura Morum held on the 6th January 1762 (p. 119)

Absent: The Revs. G. Potken, W.J. Ondaatje (indisposed), J.J. Meyer; Elders: W.P. Van Cuylenburg (in the Indies), P. Blankert (on official duties); Deacons: Mr. Fransz Bax (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that the meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; but before doing so he tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 15th of October 1761. ”Thereafter, considering the contents of the General letter dated the 23rd of July this year from Their Excellencies the Supreme Government of the Indies regarding the sending out of one of the supernumerary Predikants in this Island to Malabar to learn the Portuguese language, and to proceed thereafter to Batavia, and in order also to encourage one of these Ministers to learn this language with a view to his proceeding to Batavia if necessary, it was resolved, it was resolved to summon the native Predikant Petrus de Silva, now serving at Trincoinalee, to come over here either direct or through Jaffna, in order that he may in due course proceed to Malabar to learn the Portuguese language, and to further inform Their Excellencies respectfully that the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Rev. Mr. Carel Sezilles are both of them fully competent to preach in Portuguese. (Below). Certified by: W. van Damast Limberger, sworn clerk.” Hereafter the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the church members to be admitted were received for Holy Communion on their having responded to the three usual questions, together with three young slave youths and a maid Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 86

of our Hon. Governor Jan Schreuder, who were admitted to both Sacraments after the recognition of the Roman Catholic baptism of Abigail Fransz on the evidence furnished. Further, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who had done the house visits of the 1st block reported that he had admitted as guests at the Lord’s Table the ’ Hoofd Administrateur ’ elect Mr. de Ly and his wife and also the widow Mrs. Toussaint who had returned here from Galle on their undertaking to furnish their ’ attestaties ’ in due course, and this was approved; while the bretheren who had done the house visits of the 2nd block and the old City (i.e. Pettah) had nothing special to report. Thereafter, five ’ attestaties ’ were tabled and accepted for due announcement and registration. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no complaints were received against any member of the Consistory or against any members of our congregation, except only that those who were already under censure were met and admonished to live more decently, and the Mohottiaar Abraham de Saram, who, on account of his bad and drunken habits of life, the President who ministers to the Sinhalese congregation here recommended should be debarred from the Lord’s Table, and a similar report was made by the elder Mr. Raket on behalf of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje after his last house visit in regard to the Chetty Salomon Juriaan Ondaatje; which was noted for communication. Those who had requests to make having been called in, the administration of Holy Com- munion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Meyer, being his due turn, with the assistance of the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Teyken and LaChom. Similarly, in regard to the Church outside the City (i.e. Wolvendaal), it was decided that the house visits of the members of the native congregation should be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with the elder Mr. Blankert and the Rev. Mr. Philips with the elder Mr. Van Cuylenburg, and that the service of Holy Communion there be administered by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the elders Messrs. Van Cuylenburg and Blankert and the deacons Messrs. Holst and Homoet. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and two soldiers, namely: Jacob Egger of Basel and Abraham Steub from the Canton Kloris, requested to be admitted to Holy Communion, and as they were unable to produce their ’ attestaties ’, they were admitted as members of our Church after a short examination on the fundamentals of the Articles of Faith, and their request was allowed. Finally, the Tombokeeper having nothing special to report, the meeting terminated with the blessing. ( Signed ): The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting of 10th June 1762 (p. 121)

(The order of binding of this and the subsequent minutes appears to be faulty.) Absent : The Revs. G. Potken (indisposed), J.J. Meyer. (who has to give reasons for his absence); Elders: B.J. Raket and J.A. Van der Voort (both indisposed); Deacons: J.H. Scholts and Frans Bax (both indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris tabled an extract which read as follows:- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 87

Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 23th of May 1762. ”Whereafter, on the proposal of His Excellency and his expression of surprise at the cir- cumstances prevailing here since the departure of the Rev. Mr. Sezilles to Jaffna in that no preaching at all is done in Portuguese in spite of the fact that most of the members of the na- tive Christian congregation there understand that language better than Tamil or Sinhalese, it was resolved that the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld who was most proficient in the Portuguese language and who was even himself quite willing to preach in Portuguese during his free turn, should, in view of the opportunity now afforded by His Excellency in this respect, be appointed to edify the native congregation in Portuguese in the outer Church (or the church at Wolvendaal) on all such Sundays and fast days, either in the mornings or the afternoons when he is free from preaching (lit: has a free preaching turn) in the Dutch Church (or Church within the Castle).Certified by: G.J. Sanden, sworn clerk.” This was noted for due compliance, and the President expressed his joy over the good endeavours of the Government contained in the aforementioned extract, and quite readily undertook to do his very best in every way to help in the achievement of that godly object. Hereafter, the minutes of the last ordinary meeting having been read and discussed and signed, the President reported that he, in the presence. of the Political Commissaris and the Scriba had consulted (lit: spoken to) His Excellency the Governor about the resolution and the request made at the said ordinary session, and that His Excellency had replied that since the garrison is burdened at present with more than their normal duties this matter had better be postponed for some time. Further, His Reverence reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in April assisted by the elder Mr. Holst, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz intimated that he had duly taken over the books (i.e. records) of the Consistory from the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje in the presence of brothers Tan der Voort and Homoet in compliance with the aforesaid resolution of the Consistory. Hereupon, there came in one Philippo Sidembran Joan Wissevenade, requesting that since he was baptised at Jaffna, his baptism be recognised on the testimony of certain people who have knowledge thereof, and that the same be recorded in our baptism register; but the meeting, taking into consideration the request made to it some time ago by the bretheren at Jaffna not to believe such men lightly in regard to such matters, and, that though the said Sidembran had had ample opportunity, in case he was really baptised, as he says he was, to have obtained a certificate (lit: proof) thereof, which however he has wantonly neglected to do, yea and even on the contrary did not himself deign to do, it was not considered advisable to accede to his request at once, but in order to resist and prevent such acts of wanton neglect, it was resolved to inform him that he should therefore write to Jaffna, and that if he thinks that his letters would be of little effect, he could then apply to the Scriba of the Consistory, who will then do so on his behalf. Further, there came in Catherina Paulus, Mattheus Saviel Pieris, Lourensoe de Silva, Anna Romana, Anna Maria Sirmont and Anna Maria Hendriks, who requested that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recognised, and testified at the same time that it was their intention to become members of our Church after the consummation of their marriages. Their requests were allowed, but in the case of the two firstnamed persons on this condition, namely: that their witnesses who were not present were found on further investigation to be unimpeachable, and for this purposes ore of the cases was referred to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the other Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 88

to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: G.E. Holst and Beacon: A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting on 11th January 1762 (p. 123)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken and the elder W.P. Van Cuylenburg. (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political replied in the negative to the question whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government. The President then said that the meeting was convened for the purpose of electing new officers in place of the outgoing members of the Consistory according to the established practice. But he first tabled a letter, which was found to be from the Consistory at Trincoinalee, dated the 20th of December 1760, containing a copy of a letter of like date, which was noted for record and reply in due course. Hereafter the minutes of the last meeting were read, approved and signed. Proceeding then to the election of a new Elder in place of the outgoing elder Pieter Blankert, and deacons in place of the outgoing deacons J.E. Teyken, Jan LaChom and the deacon Hendrick Cramer who had left for Galle; firstly, out of a dual nomination of Messrs. Barent Aleman and Johan Abraham Van der Voort for the office of Elder of this congregation, Mr. J.A. Vander Voort was elected by a majority of votes; and thereafter, out of a dual nomination of Messrs. Barent Kriekenbeek, Gerrit Jan de Moor, Roelof Beekman, Bonifacius Theodoras Koster, Adriaan Moens and Jan Philip Stork, for the offices of deacon of this City, Messrs. B. Briekenbeek, Adriaan Moens and G.F. de Moor were elected by a majority of votes, and it was decided to report the same to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for their approval and permission to have the new officers installed in office according to the usual Church procedure. Hereafter, Gaspar Casiechitty, a Tamil Church member who, along with another (i.e. Adriaan Casiechitty), was examined at the Session held on the 12th of November last year for the post of Catechist and Lesson-reader for the Tamil congregation, came in and requested that he may be appointed to this post, and considering that the lastnamed person had notified his unwillingness to accept office, and that the first named person was considered to be the most capable candidate still available, it was unanimously resolved to respectfully recommend the said Gaspar Casiechitty to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings, for appointment to the said post on the salary attached to it. There also came in the Sinhalese schoolmaster of Wolvendaal named Salomon Fernando and repeated the request made by him at the session held on the 12th of November last year, namely: for appointment to the post of Catechist and Lesson-reader in that language, and it was unanimously resolved to make the necessary enquiries at the next session and thereafter make a decision in the matter according to the circumstances revealed. Finally, there came in Elizabeth de Croes, a member of the Church, and related how she was brought to bed on a promise of marriage by ... (name not entered) ... and had given birth to a daughter, and requested that the child be baptised under his name; but she was told that she may indeed have the child baptised but not in her father’s name unless this young man consents to the same. The meeting then terminated. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 89

Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld, ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, J.J. Meyer, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting on 21st January 1762 (p. 125)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (on circuit), J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje (both indisposed); Elders: P. Blankert (indisposed) and B.J. Raket (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, and after the Political Commissaris, on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, had replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened to discuss the letters to the Fatherland which had been drafted by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, and to sign and seal them and thereafter hand them over to the Government for favour of disposal; but before proceeding to do so, the President tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursdaythe 14th of January 1762. ”The Honourable Consistory of this City having, according to their resolution at the pro- ceedings of their extraordinary meeting on the 11th of this month, chosen the following in place of the outgoing elder and three deacons, namely: as Elder the Junion Merchant and Secretary of the Court of Justice Jan Abraham Van der Voort, and as Deacons the Junion Merchant and Superintendent of the Iron Stores (lit: iron magazine) Barend Briekenbeek, the Junion Merchant Adriaan Moens and the bookkeeper Gerrit Joan de Moor, by a majority of votes, and submitted the same for our approval, and also at the same time recommended one Gaspar Casiechitty for appointment to the post of Catechist and Lesson-reader for the Tamil congregation on the salary attached to this post, it was resolved to approve the elec- tion of the aforesaid Mr. Van der Voort as elder and Mr. de Moor as deacon, but in place of the said Messrs. Briekenbeek and Moens, it was decided to ask the Consistory if they would kindly choose two other persons as deacons, and that they may also issue a letter of appointment to the said Mr. Casiechitty to the office of Catechist and Lesson-reader for the Tamil congregation on the salary attached to the post. Certified by: J.F. Gratiaen, sworn clerk.” The President further tabled a letter from Jaffna addressed to this Consistory, containing a report on the state of the churches and schools under that Commandment, which it was resolved to note for record and reply in due course. But in regard to the request in the said extract regarding the election of two other persons in place of the deacons who had already been elected by this Consistory and excused by the Government for special reasons, this matter was put for for the next meeting owing to the want of time. Hereafter, the aforementioned letters to the Fatherland were read, discussed and signed and sealed and handed over to the President for further disposal. Whereupon the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ); Elders: G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.B. Teyken, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 90

Extraordinary meeting of 22nd January 1762 (p. 126)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A. Bronsveld (at Tutucorin), J.J. Fybrandsz and H. Philipsz (both indisposed); Elders: P. Blankert and B.J. Raket (both on official duties) and W.P. Van Cuylenburg (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Rev. Mr. Meyer, president in place of Mr. Philipsz at the latter request. The Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in compliance with the decision at the session of yesterday, as the time was already past, for the election of two deacons in place of the recently elected deacons Barend Krieken- beek and Adriaan Keens who had been excused, and the meeting proceeded immediately to do so, and out of a new panel of four persons, namely: the Bookkeeper and Commissioner of the Arecanut Trade Johannes Adrianus Franken, the bookkeeper Jan Jacob Qualenbrink, the burgher Johannes Ducam and the sworn clerk of the Political Secretariat Johannes de Vos, and the bookkeeper and Commissioner of the Arecanut Trade J.A. Franken and the Bookkeeper J.J. Qualenbrink were elected by a majority of votes, and in view of the lapse of time it was resolved to have these minutes signed now and to respectfully forward an extract of these proceedings to the Government for favour of their approval for installing the two aforesaid persons in office according to the usual Church procedure. Thereafter, no further business haying been brought up, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Meyer (President pro tem [ pore ].), W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.B. Teyken, A. Homoet, Jan LaChom and J.H. Scholtz.

Extraordinary meeting of 1st March 1762 (p. 127)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken; Elder: W.P. Van Cuylenburg (indisposed) and Deacon: Frans Bax. After invoking God’s holy name, the Hoofd Administrateur Jacobus de Ly, presented his credentials, which read as follows:- ”Since Their Excellencies the Supreme Government of Batavia have decided to summon the Hoofd Administrateur Godfried Kretschmar to Batavia and to appoint Mr. Arnoldus Jacobus de Ly as Hoofd Administrateur in his place, and as the office of Political Commissaris at the Church Consistory here is normally attached to that post when the Hoofd Administrateur is a member of the Reformed Church, as it so is in the case of the aforesaid Mr. A. de Ly, the aforesaid Consistory is accordingly hereby commended to receive the said Mr. de Ly in this capacity at their ordinary and extraordinary sessions and to respect him as our Political Commissaris and to accept any proposals made by him as our Deputy as having been made with our full authority. (Below): Colombo, 18th February 1762. (Signed): Jan Schreuder and L.J. van Eck. (In the margin): Impressed in the Company’s seal in red sealing wax with the following script around it: By order of His Excellency Jan Schreuder, Commissioner Extraordinary of the Netherlands Indies, the outgoing, and Lubbert Jan van Eck, the incoming Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. Signed: Joan Hugonis, Secretary. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 91

Which act of appointment was respected, and Mr. de Ly was welcomed by the President on behalf of the Consistory. Hereafter, the minutes were read and approved and signed. An extract was also tabled on behalf of the Government, which was noted for necessary action and record, and read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 1st February 1762. ”The Revered Consistory, according to an extract of their resolution on the 22nd of January last, having, in compliance with the resolution of this Council of the 14th of the same month, elected the bookkeepers J.A. Franken and J.J. Qualenbrink as Deacons in place of the Junior Merchants Barend Kriekenbeek and Adriaan Moens, it was resolved to approve their election. (Below). Certified by: G.J. Jansen, sworn clerk. Hereafter, the outgoing bretheren were thanked for their good services, and the newly- elected bretheren were introduced with the blessings of the Session after the reading of the Church Orders according to the usual custom. Further, the Political Commissaris tabled his own and his wife’s ’attesiatie’, and also that of one Catharina Fredriksz, which were accepted for Axe announcement and record; and it was also resolved to recognise the certificates of baptism which were produced in respect of His Excellence’s five domestic servants (lit: slaves) named Catharina van Bernisia, Bartholomeus, Isaac, Jacob and Titia and to record the same in the native baptism register. Further, the Sinhalese schoolmaster of Wolvendaal named Salomon Fernando who had acted as Lesson Reader and Catechist in the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) since November last year was examined in the fundamentals of our pure Christian faith in compliance with the resolution at the session of the 11th of January last and was found to be the most efficient of the applicants, and the meeting, considering that the said Salomon Fernando had so far provisionally performed these duties reasonably satisfactorily, decided to recommend him to the Government for these offices on the alary attached to the same along with an extract of these proceedings. Similarly, the repeated request made by the Lesson Reader of Kalpitiya named Dirk Kam to this Consistory for a transfer from that place to Kalutara was discussed, and considering that the said Mr. Kam had his house and property at Kalutara where he had resided for 20 years, it was resolved to respectfully request the Government to re appoint the aforesaid Lesson Reader Mr. Kam to the office of Lesson Reader at Kalutara and to transfer the Lesson Reader of Kalutara Mr. Jan Coenraad Meyer to this post at Kalpitiya. Finally, it was resolved, after prior circular to the members, that the President, the Scriba and the elder Mr. Raket and the deacon Mr. Homoet be deputed to convey to His Excel- lency the outgoing Governor Jan Schreuder, on behalf of this Consistory, our most grateful thanks for the many services and the gracious assistance rendered by His Excellency to God’s congregation here; and the meeting then terminated with the benediction. ( Signed ). The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, J.J. Meyer and W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; Deacons: A. Homoet and J.H. Scholtz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 92

Ordinary meeting of 19th March 1762 (p. 129)

Absent : The Rev. G. Potken; Elder: W.P. Van Cuylenburg (Both indisposed); Deacon: Frans Bax. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President tabled an extract, which read as follows: - Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 17th of March 1762. ”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory here of the 1st of this month hav- ing been read, recommending one Salomon Fernando for the post of Catechist and Lesson Reader of the Wolvendaal Church, and requesting that the Lesson Reader at Kalpitiya Mr. Drik Kam, who could not continue to serve (lit: thrive) there as he had his property at Malutara, be transferred to the lastmentioned place, in place of the Lesson Reader there Jan Coenraed Meyer, who could be transferred to Kalpitiya, it was resolved to approve of these recommendations, with the payment of a salary of 5 rixdollars permonth to the aforemention Mr. Salomon Fernando. Certified by: G.J. van Sanden, sworn clerk; and countersigned by: R.J. Kriekenbeek.” Which orders were noted for due compliance, and the aforenamed Sinhalese Catechist and Lesson Reader who was waiting outside was called in and informed accordingly by the President. Hereafter the President handed in a notification regarding the transfer (i.e. handing over) of the administration and the accounts of income and expenditure of the Poor Funds by the outgoing to the incoming Deacons, which is incorporated herein as follows:- ” Notification . The congregation is hereby notified that on Wednesday last the 24th of this month, at 9 a.m. in the morning, in the Church here, a due account and transfer of the administration and the accounts of income and expenditure of the Poor Funds during their term of office, together with a balance sheet of the books of account as at 31st August last, were duly handed over by the outgoing to the present newly-elected deacons, with open doors and in the presence of the Special Commissioners of the Political Council, the Court of Justice and the Consistory here; therefore, anyone who wishes to inspect the same is welcome to do so at the time and place aforementioned according to the usual custom. Colombo the 20th of March 1762. By order of the Right Honourable Mr. Lubbert Jan Van Eck, Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. (Signed): J.H.Muller, sworn clerk; and (Countersigned by): J.J.Scharffe.” Hereafter, the minutes of the last Session were read, approved and signed: and the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fyfarandsz. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- For the 1st block - The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Van der Voort. For the 2nd block - The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket. For the inner and outer cities - The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the deacon Mr. Holst, and the administration of Holy Communion in the Leper Asylum was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld assisted by the elder Mr. Holst, and that at the outposts to the Rev. Messrs Fybrandsz and Philipsz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 93

Further, an ’attestatie’ was tabled by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz in favour of Lieut. Lucas Pagano, which being found to be valid was accepted for due announcement and registration in due course. It was also decided that the custody of the Consistory books (i.e. records), which were in the charge of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje for about six months, be handed over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz in the presence of the elder Mr. Van der Voort and the deacon Mr. Homoet. Finally, those who had requests to make were called in, and there came in one Saviel Rodrigo, Marcus and Cornelia Dias, the first named requesting admission to Holy Commu- nion on his confession of faith, and the two lastnamed that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recognised: all of which were allowed by the Session. The Sexton, who was present, then reported that no evening prayers had been conducted here for some time in the Prayer Hall owing to a letter from Kandy which was now preserved there, and he requested, if the Consistory approved of the same, that representations be made regarding the same to His Excellency the Governor, to ascertain whether it is His Excellency’s pleasure that this should be done in the Church on this occasion, as it has often been done in the past in similar circumstances: over which matter the meeting, after prior deliberation, considered that the President should consult His Excellency orally. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, W.J. Ondaathe, H. Philipsz; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; and the Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Censura Morum on 7th April 1762 (p. 131)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, H. Philipsz and the elder Mr. W.P. Van Cuylenburg (all of them indisposed) and the deacon Mr. F. Bax (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that the meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Whereupon, the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting were read, approved and signed: and the President tabled two ’ attestaties ’ in favour of Mrs. Adriana Elizabeth Kriekenbeek and Willemina Catherina de Vries, which were accepted; and thereafter, the President reported that he had visited the 1st block with the elder Mr. Holst and that he had admitted as a guest at Holy Communion Mrs. Rebecca Schaller, wife of the chief medical officer Mr. Soumyn on her promise to furnish her ’attestatie’, and that he had no further report to make on his house visits. Similarly, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket, who had visited the 2nd block, said that they had nothing special to report, except that they too had admitted Mrs. Scharke as a guest at the Lord’s Table on a similar condition. The Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Van der Voort, who visited the inner and outer cities, reported that they too had nothing to report. Hereafter, those who had made their confession of faith were called in, and on their responding to the three usual questions, were dismissed with the blessings of the Session. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were received either against any mem- ber of the Consistory or against any member of the congregation; and the cases of Abraham de Saram and Salomon Juriaan Ondaatje who were already under censure only were brought Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 94 up, and since no further reports were received of any improvement in their conduct and behavious, their cases were allowed to remain in statu quo . The administration of Holy Communion was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the brother elders Mr. Van der Voort and Van Cuylenburg and the deacons Messrs. Scholtz and Homoet and that in the Church outside the city (i.e. Wolvendaal) to the Rev. Mr . Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the deacons Messrs, Baks and De Moor; and the house visits of the native congregation to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the elder Mr. Raket and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the elder Mr. Holst. Finally, Pieter Burt came in and requested that his baptism by a Roman Catholic priest at Tutucorin, which was testified by persons who had witnessed and certified it be recognised, and that his name may be registered in the membership roll, which request, owing to the lateness of the hour, was referred to the Scriba and the elder Mr. Raket for disposal after due investigation. The Tombokeeper and schoolmasters, who were also present, were then encouraged in their work and told that they should in future submit at the ordinary sessions of the Consistory a list of the names of those who desired to be admitted as members of the Church; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Meyer, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst and J. Van der Voort; and the Deacons; J.H. Scholtz, A. Homoet, G.J. de Moor and J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting of 21st June 1762 (p. 133)

Absent: The Rev. G. Potken. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer over this meeting, the President said that this meeting was convened for making the necessary arrangements for the services of Holy Com- munion. Whereupon, some of the bretheren who were absent at the last session; were asked to state the reasons for their absence and the same were accepted by the Session, except in the case of the Rev. Mr. Meyer, to which only Brother Homoet had certain objections. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld then handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who in turn handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Meyer. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read, discussed and Signed: and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- For the 1st block - the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Holst. For the 2nd block - the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. van der Voort. For the old city - The Rev. Kr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket. And the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands, being his turn to do so, assisted by the elder Mr. Van der Voort, and that at the outposts too to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz according to the usual practice. There came in then Mr. Hector Tamby, requesting that a Sinhalese child whom he had adopted be accepted into the Church for baptism, stating that his mother was baptised in the Roman Catholic Church: which request was allowed by the Session on the condition that he furnished proof of the mother’s baptism through the testimony of two irreproachable witnesses to two persons who were delegated therefor by the Consistory, namely: the Rev. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 95

Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. van der Voort, or a Secretarial Act of adoption, the former of which the applicant readily agreed to do and he also expressed his thanks to this Consistory. A soldier named Hendrik Fredrik Vogue too requested that the Roman Catholic baptism of a Sinhalese girl whom he intended to marry, namely Johanna Caldera, be accepted by us, which was also likewise allowed on the condition that the President first enquires whether the testimony of the witnesses of the baptism, who were not present at the time, could be accepted. The meeting than terminated with prayer. Signed: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.J. Meyer ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.S. Holst and J. van der Voort; and Deacon: A. Homoet.

Cersura Morum of 30th June 1762 (p. 134)

Absent : The Revs. G. Potken, S.A.Bronsveld (on school visits); Elder: J.A. van der Voort (indisposed) and Deacon: J.A. Franken (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President that this meeting, was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum whereupon the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read, discussed and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The recently admitted Church members were then called in, and on their answering the three usual questions, they were admonished by the President in good Christian living and dismissed with the blessings of the session. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against the life and doc- trine of any member of the Consistory or against any member of the congregation, whereupon the case of those who were already under censure were allowed to remain in in statu quo , ex- cept that of Salomon Ondaatje, who was readmitted to Holy Communion on the favourable testimony of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Raket. The administration of Holy Communion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the Deacons Messrs. Bax and de Moor, and that in the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the eiders Messrs. van der Voort and Raket and the Deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Franken, after the preparatory house visits which were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Raket. One Isaac de Costa, a libertine of the Under Merchant H. van der Hoff then came in and requested recognition of his Roman Catholic baptism: which was allowed. However, a similar request made on behalf of a free maid named Anestasia was withheld until such time as enquiries were first made by the Rev. Mr. Meyer on behalf of this Consistory into the reprehensible reluctance (lit: tranquility) of her witnesses, who were members of our Church, to declare their names. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: B.J. Raket; Deacons: A. Homoet, F. Bax, G.J. de Moor and J.J. Qualenbrink. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 96

Extraordinary meeting of 26th August 1762 (p. 135)

Absent : Deacons J.H. Scholtz and Frans Bax. After invoking God’s holy name, and after the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative, and after having made the introductory compliments to the Rev. Messrs. Jansze and Spoor, the President paid that he had convened this meeting on account of a packet which he had received, which, on being opened, was found to contain the Acts of the Synod of South Holland for the year 1761 together with a covering letter, which was noted for necessary action. The Rev. Messrs. Jansze and Spoor then presented their ’ attestaties ’ and credentials, and the latter were handed back to them. The minutes of the session of the 21st June were read, discussed and signed. The Chetty named Donko Fernando was then admitted in, and he requested that his Roman Catholic baptism, which was confirmed by persons named Simon and Sabina Rodrigo who were present as witnesses, be respected, on the added promise that he would become a member of our Church: which request was allowed on this condition. The meeting then terminated with the benediction. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz, B. Jansz and ... Spoor; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort, and the Deacon: A. Homoet.

Ordinary meeting of 20th September 1762 (p. 136)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Meyer (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened to make the necessary arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Whereupon the President handed over his office of President to the Rev. Mr. Meyer, who in turn handed over, his office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr . Ondaatje, together with a letter and an extract, which, on being read out, was found to be of the same contents as that which was tabled at the Session of the 26th of August last, being also the covering letter to the Acts of the Synod of South Holland of the year 1761; and the other was an extract which read as fllows:- Extract of the minutes of the meeting of the Curators (of the Seminary) on 6th May 1762. ”Thereupon, the most senior pupil in the Seminary named Don Gabriel, a Sinhalese from Cotta, aged about 26 years, came forward and respectfully represented to the Honourable Members that he had already undergone a period of over 17 years’ training in the Seminary, and had just reached the stage when he should proceed to Europe in order to complete his training in Theology, and having been unfortunate in not being able to achieve his object on account of the recent new arrangements, he therefore requested that the Honourable Members may be pleased to recommend him to His Excellency the Governor for appointment as Proponent in the country, and that he desired to appeal to the Consistory this connection according to the usual Church custom; the meeting accordingly, being unable to ignore (lit: deny him ) his request (in view of the good testimony of the Rector and the satisfactory result shown at the present examination), promised to recommend him favourably to His Excellency the Governor for the grant of his request, especially as the lack of Sinhalese Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 97

Proponents in places where they are badly needed has greatly increased on account of the death of the old Proponent at Kalutara named Simon Perera, where that congregation is now deprived of (lit: remains unserved by) such a Church official and (according to the recent orders) none of the present school-masters possess the necessary qualifications therefor. (Below): Certified and issued on the orders of the Hon. President. Signed by J.C. Stechwy, sworn clerk and Scriba of the Seminary.” In the marginal. ”Thus, in view of the aforesaid urgent (lit: pressing) reasons, and especially as none of the present Sinhalese schoolmasters possess the necessary qualifications (lit: capacity) for appointment to the vacancy of Proponent at Kalutara, we will on this occasion accept the proposed candidate Don Gabriel for appointment to the post, provided he first undergoes the necessary examination by the honourable Consistory. (Below): Signed: L.J. van Eck.” Whereupon it was resolved to follow the usual procedure, namely: to summon the said student Don Gabriel to appear before the Session, and to fix a time for his due examination. The minutes of the previous session were then read, discussed and signed; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Holst. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. van der Voort. As regards the Leper Asylum, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had not been able to do his visit there as he was prevented from doing so owing to the present disturbances; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz too said that he had not been able to visit the outposts on this occasion for the same reasons; but the former of them also informed the session that he had completed his normal work at Kalutara and at Cotta, and the visits of these two outposts were again entrusted to him; and the visit to the Leper Asylum was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Meyer and the elder Mr. Raket; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz was allotted his normal duties. Finally, the following persons came in with their requests, namely: a Sergeant named Brand, who requested admission to Holy Communion on presentation of his ’attestatie’; but as it was an old one, he was asked whether he would be willing to undergo a reasonable examination, which he was quite willing to do, and he was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld for testing. There also came in a freed slave named Moses and also three freed slave-maids, who requested recognition of their Roman Catholic baptisms, of whom, the said freed slave and two of the freed slave-maids were granted their requests according to the usual procedure, and the other (maid) was asked to obtain her ’attestatie’ from Tutucorin for the grant of her request; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God . Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), V.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz, B. Jansz, Andries Spoor; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; and Deacons: J.K. Scholtz, A.Homoet and Frans Bax.

Censura Morum of 28th September 1762 (p. 138)

Absent: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed), J.J. Fybrandsz (on circuit); Elder: G.E. Holst (on official duty); Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and J.A. Franke (both of then on official duty). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 98

After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; whereupon the minutes of the previous Censura Morum were read and signed, and the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except that one Isaac Jacob Entink, who had handed over his ’attestatie’ to the bretheren who had visited the 1st block for submission for the further orders of the Consistory, which was found to he valid and was handed back to the Scriba . The newly admitted Church Members who responded to the three usual questions put to them were then dismissed with the blessings of the Session. Four soldiers, named Jacob Muller, Jurgen Sneyder, Jean Pieter Swarts, bachen and Johan Jacob, then came in and made a similar request, namely: to be admitted to the Lord’s Table as Church members, the first named of whom possessed an ’attestatie’ of the year 1753, but the three lastnamed who had no testimonials, declared that owing to the present disturbances in Europe and here the lastnamed persons had come over here in haste without their ’ attestaties ’ and the first named person with his ’attestatie’: all these requests were granted on the condition that they first made a brief confession of their faith, which they readily agreed to do. ”Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against the conduct of any member of this Consistory or against any other members of this Christian congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Church within the Castle was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and van der Voort and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Franke, and that in the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and van der Voort and the deacons Messrs. Homoet and Scholtz; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz and B. Jansz; Elders: B.J. Raket and J.A. van der Voort; and the Deacons: A. Homoet, F. Bax, G.J. de Moor and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting of 8th October 1762 (p. 139)

Absent : The Political Commissaris (on official duty), the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (indis- posed) and the Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on Church duties). After invoking God’s holy name, two extracts and a Church certificate of discharge which were received were tabled, which read as follows:- Extract of a letter from Their Excellencies at Batavia to Colombo dated the 15th of June 1762. ”Likewise, we have, at the request of the Predikant Henricus Silvius, resolved to appoint (lit: summon) His Reverence for work in Colombo on his present salary, house allowance and further emoluments. (Below); Certified by: J.H. Muller, sworn clerk.” And the other: An extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday afternoon the 18th of September 1762. ”Further, considering that as a result of the call by Their Excellencies the Council at Batavia, summoning the Rector of the Seminary here (the Rev. J.J. Meyer) to Batavia, the appointment of another capable Professor (lit: Minister) in his place as Rector has been referred by Their Excellencies aforementioned to His Excellency the Governor Mr. Van Eck Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 99

for disposal, therefore, on the proposal of His Excellency, the Rev. Sigisbertus Abrahamsz Bronsveld was nominated therefor, as he is efficient in both the Sinhalese and the Tamil languages and the most suitable person to be in charge of the discipline and training of the students according to the recent arrangements at the said Seminary, with a view to achieving the objects of the same, in the hope that Their Excellencies would, for the abovementioned reasons, be pleased to approve of the aforesaid nomination, notwithstanding the fact that Their Excellencies had ordered lit: written) that the said Rev. Mr. Bronsveld should go over to Galle, to which place the Council resolved to send over the Rev. Andries Spoor who had come over from the Netherlands this year. (Below): Certified by: J.H. Muller, sworn clerk.” And the Church Certificate of discharge read as follows:- (A copy of this is incorporated in the margin on page 132, and the original is filed as page 140 a in the volume):- ”The Rev. and most learned Mr. H. Silvius, having been appointed (lit: sailed) by the Supreme Government at Batavia on the 11th of May this year for work as an Ordinary Professor (i.e. Minister) for the beloved Dutch congregation at Colombo, who is now about to depart thither, having applied for a so called Church Certificate of Discharge according to the normal Church custom, so we, the Predikants and Elders of the Church Consistory at Batavia, not being hesitant to accommodate him most readily in his said request and to confirm the same by these presents, as we do now hereby testify, that the said Reverend gentleman, during his period of five years’ service as Permanent Predikant at the island ”Onrust”, has not only taught the doctrine of truth and godliness in an upright and learned manner and earnestly edified (lit: stirred) the minds of his hearers, but also devoutly administered the Sacraments, and besides this, has not given any trouble or offence in his life and conduct (as far as we are aware); therefore, we are most grateful (lit: thankful) to His Reverence for his services, and also sincerely wish that God Almighty will abundantly shower His blessings on his spiritual endeavours among his new congregation and give him a prosperous and safe journey, and also abundantly bless him so that he may be able to employ his God-given talents to the greater glory of God’s holy name and for the extension (i.e. advancement) of Christ’s spiritual and heavenly Kingdom to His Reverence’s personal spiritual merit and happiness in the Lord our God. (Signed: on behalf of the Consistory): Joh. Wilh. Swemmslaar, President and Scriba , (...) Elder, (In the margin): Batavia, the 6th of July 1762.” All the above were noted for necessary action, and the Rev. Mr. Silvius expressed his grateful thanks to the Consistory and promised his most loyal services to the Consistory, who had previously, through the President, wished him all the best in his calling here, with their blessings on his person and his responsible work. Thereupon, the meeting, proceeding to further business, decided to deal acceording to the normal procedure with the letters received from Batavia, which contained their report on the state and condition of God’s Church there, and with the ’ attestaties ’ furnished in favour of the Rev. Mr. Silvius and his wife; and the minutes of the previous meeting were duly read and signed. Thereafter, there came in the student Don Gabriel, who requested that a time be freed for his examination, the choice (i.e. option) of which was offered to him, and which he wished to take place at the end of six weeks, and his request was allowed, and he was asked to appear before (lit: address himself to) the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who was nominated by the Session as his examiner. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 100

Finally, there came in a person named Cires with a person named Diana, who produced a testimonial (i.e. affidavit) signed by two persons who sincerely testified that both of them were truly baptised in our Reformed Church at Negapatnam, which testimony was personally confirmed by the two persons before the Session, and their names, as well as those of the baptised persons, were recorded in the baptism register; after which, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, H. Philipsz, B. Jansz, and As. Spoor; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; and Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting on 29th November 1762 (p. 141)

Absent: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld and the Deacon F. Bax (both on official duties). After invoicing God’s holy name, the President tabled a letter which he had received, which, on being opened, was found to be from the Galle Consistory, containing a report on the state and condition of the Christian congregation there, which, together with the notification regarding the Day of Prayer celebrated on the 3rd of November last, it was resolved to file for record and for necessary action as usual. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed by the members who were present . The President then asked who should be deputed to draft (i.e. prepare) the Church reports (i.e. letters) for the current year, and what matters in the correspondence with the Churches should be mentioned therein, and this task was then delegated to the Rev. Mr. Meyer whose ,turn it was to do so, but he asked to be relieved of this duty in view of his impending departure for Batavia, and the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who was next in turn, having expressed that he was willing to do so but likewise begged to be excused on account of his arduous duties in view of his recent arrival and his inexperience of the state and the condition of the congregation here, the Consistory, having consulted all the members in turn, nominated the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld as the next person for preparing the reports for the current year and for replying to the points raised in the incoming correspondence from the Fatherland and for preparing a true account on the state and condition of our Church (lit: House of Zion) in Ceylon. Further, there came in Matthys Saviel Pieris, Maria Fernando and Christina Floen, re- questing recognition of their Roman Catholic baptisms, and as they furnished the normal necessary testimonials (lit: proofs), their requests were allowed, and the Scriba was directed to register their names in the baptism register. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Meyer (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz and B. Jansz; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting of 20th December 1762 (p. 142)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius; Elder: B.J. Raket (both of them on official duties). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 101

The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that the meeting was convened, in compliance with the decision of the Session on the 8th of October this year, for the examination of the student Don Gabriel, before proceeding to which however, the Political Commissaris, having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government to which he replied in the negative, the President asked in what manner this student should be examined, and whether the test should be conducted openly before the Session or privately. The meeting having decided on the former procedure he was thereupon summoned, and when he came in one portion of the text set him by the examiner from the Gospel according to St. Luke Chapter 13 verse 5 having been read out, the Session proceeded to examine him on the same, which was briefly done by the Scriba the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje on the principal points of doctrine; and on the vote being put to the Session, it was decided that the person examined was reasonably capable, and that it was now necessary to spread the Holy Gospel in its simplicity throughout the country if it was definitively our aim (lit: pleasure) by this means to make the light shine in the darkness for the merciful salvation of both him who preached the Word and those who hear him. Further, the meeting decided to recommend the person examined to the Government for appointment to the office of Proponent , together with an extract of these proceedings, and to convey the decision in regard, to the said, student orally to the Reverend Curators of the Seminary, except the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who was personally of the opinion that the Curators too should be informed of the decision with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thinks giving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Meyer (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz and B. Jansz; Elders: G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Ordinary meeting of 27th December 1762 (p. 143)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (on duty in the Seminary) and Deacon: F. Bax (on official duty). The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened to make the necessary arrangements as usual for the forth coining services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read, approved and signed, and the Rev. Mr. Meyer handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, and the latter handed over his office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the meeting then proceeded to make arrangements for the forthcoming house visits. Meanwhile, the Rev. Mr. Meyer requested to be relieved of his normal preaching turns in view of his multifarious duties, and especially his impending departure, on the condition that he will preach off and on as and when it is necessary: which request the Session considered to be reasonable and approved and granted. Whereupon, arrangements were made for house visits as follows:- The 1st block - The Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Van der Voort. The 2nd block - The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Raket. The 3rd block (or the inner and outer cities) - The Rev. Mr. Jansz (in place of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld) and the elder Holst. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 102

As the Leper Asylum was not visited on the previous occasion, this duty was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Holst, and the visits of the outposts to the Revs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz, while the latter informed the Session that he had administered Holy Communion at Panadura on the 27th of October last. The Tombokeeper then came in and submitted a list of names of certain persons who desired to make their confession of faith, namely: at Colpetty - Petronella Gomes, wife of Louis Gomes and Dona Bastiana, widow of Jelis Gomes; and at Galle - Anna Rodrigo, wife of Joan Pintho; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Qndaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Meyer and B. Jansz; Elders: B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet.

Censura Morum meeting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday the 5th of January 1763 (p. 144)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to conduct the usual Censura Morum. But before proceeding to the same, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed. The bretheren then said that there was nothing special to report on their recent house visits; and the President tabled two ’ attestaties ’, one of them being in favour of the Under Merchant Mr. Thomas Tornton and the other in favour of Helena Elizabet Pasman, wife of Captain Hattorff, whose names were to be announced from the pulpit and duly registered. Further, those who had made their confession of faith were called in and they responded to the three usual questions which were put to them and were dismissed with the blessings of the Session, and their names were to be duly announced and registered. Hereupon proceeding to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against any of the present or absent members of the Consistory or against any; other Church member, and those who were already under censure were duly admonished to live more decently. The service of Holy Communion in the Church within the Castle was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Silvius assisted by the elders Raket and van der Voort and the deacons Homoet and Schultz. The house visiting of the native congregation was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with, the elder Mr. Holst, and he was also appointed to conduct the service of Holy Communion on this occasion, assisted by the elder Mr. Van der Voort and the deacons Messrs. Bax and de Moor; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz; Deacons: J.H. Scholtz, G.J. de Moor and. J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting of 17th January 1763 (p. 145)

Absent: The Revs S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed), J.J. Fybrandsz (at Kalutara) and J. de Melho (excused). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened for the purpose of electing new elders and deacons in place of the outgoing bretheren. Meanwhile, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 103

the Political Commissaris, on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, said that ha had two extracts regarding the appointment (lit: calling) of the Rev. Mr. de Melho and the Rev. Mr. Jansz, which he had forgotten to bring with him, and also one regarding the student who was examined, Don Gabriel. Before proceeding to the election of the new brother elders and deacons, on a representation made by the Rev. Mr. Silvius that the Rev. Mr. Jansz, being a supernumerary Minister, has no voting rights in the election, the matter was put to the members, of the Consistory, and all the other members saw no reason why the Rev. Mr. Jansz should be excluded therefrom especially as they were not aware of any definite order prohibiting the same; whereupon the Rev. Mr. Silvius protested against the same and asked that his dissent be recorded. Hereupon, proceeding to the election, out, of a nomination of eight persons, namely: D.C. Franchimont, D.J. Potken, J.B. Teyken, Aleman, Homoet, Scholtz, B. Kriekenbeek and ... Stork, the following were elected by a majority of votes as Elders of this City:- D.J. Potken, B. Aleman, J.B. Teyken and J.H. Scholtz in place of the deceased elder Mr. W.P. van Cuylenburg and the outgoing elders B.J. Raket, G.E. Holst and J.A. van der Voort; and out of a nomination of six persons, namely: Thos. Thornton, Stegwey, Marci, Jongbloet, van den Broek and Van Geyzel, the following were elected by a majority of votes to serve as deacons in place of the outgoing brother deacons A. Homet, F. Bax and J.H. Scholtz, namely: Messrs. Thornton, Marci and Stegwey; and it was at the same time resolved to notify the Government of the same along with an extract of these proceedings for their approval and for permission to install them in office according to the usual Church procedure. Hereafter, owing to the lateness of the hour the bretheren had nothing further to bring up at present, except that the elder Mr. van der Voort, who was about to leave shortly, asked to be furnished with his certificate of discharge, and his ’attestatie’, which were granted to him after the President had heartily thanked him on behalf of this Consistory for his loyal help and assistance to them, and wished him God’s blessings on his person and a safe journey; Whereupon the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); and the elder G.E. Holst.

Extraordinary meeting of 24th January 1763 (p. 146)

Absent: The Rev. Messrs. S.A. Bronsveld (on duty), P. de Melho; Elder: B.J. Raket: Deacons: J.H. Scholtz (both of them on official duties); and the Deacon Mr. F.Bax (indis- posed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened: in order to discuss the letters to the Fatherland which were made ready by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld . Meanwhile the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, tabled three extracts of resolutions of the Political Council which read as follows:- Extract of a Resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday morning the 7th January 1763. ”Having firstly deliberated over the fact that the comptoir of Trincoinalee and its depen- dency of Batticaloa although they are at present more fully fortified with garrisons than Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 104 ever before, now lack the services of a Predikant with the departure, in accordance with the decision of the 15th October last, of the Predikant who has come over here, and the further departure from here to Malabar of the Predikant Petrus de Silva (since deceased), and considering that, on the contrary, there are three Predikants at Jaffna, namely: the Rev. Messrs. Silvius, de Melho and Jansz, it was resolved and decided, on the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, to transfer (lit: summon) the Rev. Mr. de Melho from there to Trincomalee. (Below): Certified by J.C. Stegwey, sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by P.A. Loos.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 7th January 1763. ”And thereafter, with the death, as mentioned above, of the Rev. Mr. de Silva, on account of which it had not yet been possible to comply with the intention of Their Excellencies the Supreme Government of the Indies at Batavia in their letter of the 23rd of July last year, namely: to send out to Malabar one of the supernumerary Predikants in this Island to learn the Portuguese language and to leave thereafter for Batavia, and considering that there are six Predikants here at the present moment, excluding the Rev. Mr. Meyer who has been called over to Batavia, of whom the Rev. Bastiaan Jansz has not yet been allotted a definite charge, it was resolved in the aforesaid circumstances to send him over to Malabar. (Below) Certified by: J.C. Stegwey, sworn clerk. (In the margin). Collated by P.A. Loos.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday morning the 7th of January 1763. ”Similarly too, in view of an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of the 20th of December last year, the student from the Seminary here, Don Gabriel, is appointed as Proponent for the Sinhalese, as it is observed therefrom that he has been examined and was found to be reasonably-capable, and that it was necessary at the present time to spread the Holy Gospel in its simplicity to his countrymen. (Below) Certified by: J.C. Stegwey, sworn clerk.” All the above extracts were noted for due compliance; and thereafter, the letters to the Fatherland were discussed, and the minutes of the previous session were read, approved and signed: and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, J.J. Meyer; Elder: G.E. Holst; and Deacon: A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting of 26th January 1763 (p. 147)

Absent : The Revs. J.J. Fybrands, P. de Melho and B. Jansz; Elder: B.J. Raket; Deacons: F. Bax and J.H. Scholtz. The meeting commenced with prayer, and the President said that it was convened in order to have the letters to the Fatherland and those to the Church Consistory of Batavia, which were now copied and ready, signed and disposed of as usual. Immediately after this, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative; and the letters were then read, signed and sealed and handed over to the President for further disposal, except those to the Church Consistory of Batavia, which were passed on to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz to be prepared for despatch as the Rev. Mr. Meyer, for certain reasons, asked that they may be prepared by one of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 105

other bretheren and that the last letter from Batavia (mentioned in the minutes of the 8th October last) be answered in detail, from which task the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld too wished to be excused. Hereafter, the request of the Rev. Mr. Meyer to be furnished with his certificate of discharge was granted; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elder: G.E. Holst; and Deacon: A. Homoet.

Extraordinary meeting of 4th February 1763 (p. 148)

Absent: The Revs: H. Silvius (excused), S.A. Bronsveld (on duty at the Seminary); and Deacon: F. Bax (indisposed). The meeting having commenced with prayer, the Political Commissaris was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government. The President then said that this meeting was convened in view of an extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received approving of the recent election of brother elders and deacons, except that of Mr. Adolph Marci who was chosen as a deacon, the contents of which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 1st February 1763. ”The Church Consistory of this City, having submitted an extract of their resolution of the 17th January last, whereby they had elected as Elders the Chief Surgeon of the Dutch Hospital B. Aleman, the Shopkeeper Johannes Bartholomeus Teyken, the Second Warehousekeeper Dirk Joan Potken and the Captain of the Burgery Jurgen Hendrik Scholtz, and as Deacons the Under Merchant Thomas Thornton, the Provisional Superintendent of the Galle Korale A. Marci and the sworn clerk Christiaan Stegwey; it was decided by Circular to the members to approve of these elections, provided that (i.e. except that) the Consistory be asked to select some other person to serve as Deacon instead of the aforesaid Mr. Marci. (Below): Certified by: J.F. Gratiaen, sworn clerk. (In the margin). Collated by: F. van Geyzel.” Hereafter, the minutes of the previous session were read and signed by the members who were present; and proceeding immediately to the election of another person as Deacon instead of the Provisional Superintendent of the Galle Korale Adolph Fredrik Marci in compliance with the abovementioned extract of the Political Council resolution of the 1st February last, it was unanimously decided to elect as deacon the Junior Merchant and Superintendant of the Iron Stores (lit: Iron Magazine) Mr. Adriaen (Vakvelsen), and to report the same to the Government with an extract of these proceedings for their approval and permission to instal him in office along with the other newly-elected bretheren according to the usual Church procedure. Thereafter, as decided at the previous session, the letter to Batavia which was prepared by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz was tabled and read, and as no member had any remarks to offer, it was approved, and it was resolved to s end the same to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, and to ascertain from him whether he would sign it as Scriba Epistolarum, and that in case His Reverence wished to be excused from doing do, the letter should be appropriately amended. One Christiaan Jansz then came in with two witnesses and requested that his Roman Catholic baptism be recognised on their testimony, and since the Roman Catholic priest Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 106

would not give him a certificate of baptism, his request was allowed according to the normal practice; and also the request of one Agneta Jansz, widow of a soldier named. Hendrik Sederls, who requested baptism for her little adopted son named ... Johannes. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs: W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: J.H. Scholtz and A. Homoet. (N.B . The pages containing the minutes of the subsequent meetings are not filed in their correct chronological sequence in the volume).

Censura Morum meeting on Wednesday the 30th March 1763 (p. 155)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: B. Aleman; and Deacon: G.J. de Moor. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened specially to hold the usual Censura Morum; but before proceeding to this, the newly elected deacons were welcomed with the blessings of the Session on their work. The recently admitted Church members then came in, and on their answering to the three usual questions, they were accepted for announcement in Church according to the usual practice, and the Scriba was directed to register their names in the membership roll, except in the case of Mr. de Bock, who was duly examined by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje in the presence of an elder but failed to turn up, wherefore it was decided to send the Sexton on behalf of this Consistory to summon him to attend here to answer the three usual questions according to the normal practice, but the said gentleman excused himself on the frivolous pretext of illness notwithstanding the fact that the brother elder Scholtz who had met him before the meeting had not noticed any signs of his being indisposed at all, and it was accordingly resolved to inform him (Mr. de Bock) through the Sexton that he should refrain from (lit: keep away from) participating at the Lord’s Table until such time as he complies with the requisition of this Consistory at a subsequent Censura Morum meeting. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, the brother deacons Franke and Qualenbrink complained, as they had previously done in a letter to the Consistory, over the neglect of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje; but the meeting, finding that there were no grounds for the same, set aside (i.e. ignored) the complaint, and imposed the customary fine on the aforementioned brother deacons for their unauthorised absence at the last session. Further, to our great joy, no reports were received against any of the members (present or absent). The administration of Holy Communion (in the Church) within the Castle was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Scholtz and Aleman and the deacons de Moor and Franke. The house visits of the native congregation were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with the elder Mr. Aleman and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz with the elder Mr. Scholtz. The administration of Holy Communion in the Church, outside the Castle (i.e. Wolvendaal) was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Teyken and Potken and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Thornton. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders; J.H. Scholtz, D.J. Potken and J.B. Teyken and B. Alem; and Deacons: J. Qualenbrink, C. Stegwey and A. Vakvelsen. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 107

Ordinary meeting of 21st March 1763 (p. 161)

Absent: The Political Commissaris; The Rev. H. Silvius and Deacons: F. Bax, J.A. Franke and J.J. Qualenbrink, (The reasons for their absence have still to be investigated). After invoking Jehovah’s Holy Name, the President said that this meeting was convened to make arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. But first of all, before proceeding to do so, the Rev. Mr. J.J. Meyer, who was on the eve of his departure for Batavia, sincerely bade farewell to the members of the Consistory, who, through the President, reciprocated the same and wished him God’s blessings over his person and also over his work in the ministry of God’s word. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and signed, and the outgoing brother elders and deacons were thanked for their loyal services and assistance to this Con- sistory and. to God’s Church, and they were appropriately led out of the meeting, and the newly installed elders were wished all the best and God’s blessings in the discharge of the holy duties undertaken by them, and they were allotted their seats in the Session. Regarding the extract of the resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon, which read as follows:- Extract of a Circular resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 11th February 1763. ”The Revered Consistory of this City, in accordance with their resolution of the 1st of this month, having proceeded to the election of another Deacon in place of the Provisional Superintendent of the Galle Korale Mr. Marci, and chosen the Junior Merchant and Provi- sional Superintendent of the Iron Stores (lit: Iron Magazine) here Mr. Van Velsen, the same is hereby approved. (Below): Certified by: Js. van Sanden, sworn clerk”. It was resolved, as already agreed by Circular to the members as recorded in minutes book to note the same for necessary action, and likewise also the letter from Jaffna (after prior circulation to the members) for incorporation in the inward letter book, after the Scriba has sent the same thither (i.e. to Jaffna) with a covering letter. As regards the letter from the brother deadons Franke and Qualenbrink, and the ’attestatie’ of Mrs. van Dohren: as the former (being an unusual and resentful act on the part of these bretheren) was unanimously set aside (lit: ignored) by the entire Session and immediately returned to them by the meeting through the Sexton, and the said bretheren were to be told that they could bring up their grievances (lit: interests) personally and orally at the Session; and the latter was passed on to the Scriba for registration in the membership roll after due announcement to this Christian congregation. Hereupon, the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the office of Scriba was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, after which the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Scholtz. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Teyken. The old city (i.e. Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the elder Mr. Potken. Finally, the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz reported that they had visited the outposts, except Negombo, Dandagamuwa and Nagamuwa, which they were unable to do on this occasion owning to the reasons often mentioned to the Consistory. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 108

Further, the duty of visiting all the outposts was entrusted to the same bretheren, and the visit of the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Potken; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, B. Aleman and D.J. Potken; Deacon: G.J. de Moor .

Extraordinary meeting of 24th May 1763 (p. 157)

Absent: The Revs. H. Silvius (indisposed), S.A. Bronsveld (on duty); Elder: J.C. Stechwey (on official duties) and Deacon: J.A. Franke (indisposed). The meeting having commenced with prayer, the Political Commissaris was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, and he replied in the negative. The President then said that this meeting was specially convened on account of a letter addressed to this Consistory which, on being opened, was found to come from Malacca, forwarding a certificate of baptism in favour of Usemia Rodak, where over it was resolved to register her name in the native baptism register. Hereafter, the President tabled a letter addressed to him by Bro. Franke, requesting that it be tabled at this meeting and the discussion of the same be postponed for a subsequent meeting. Hereafter, the minutes of the previous session having been read and approved and duly signed, there came in to the meeting one Andries de Silva, requesting that his Roman Catholic baptism be recognised on the promise that he will make his confession of faith before us at the earliest opportunity: whereupon his request was allowed. Finally, Isaac Perera and Dona Isabella came in, requesting that the names of their children who were baptised in the Roman Catholic Church be registered in our baptism roll and that they may be educated in the Wolvendaal school; which request too was allowed. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Philipsz, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.H. Scholtz; Deacons: G.J. de Moor and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1763 (p. 157)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed); Elders: B. Aleman and D.J. Potken; and Deacons: J.A. Franke and C. Stegwey (all of them on official duty). The meeting having commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened specially to make arrangements for the forthcoming house visits etc. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed by the members who were present and in regard to the letter from Bro. Franke referred to in these minutes, it was resolved, on account of this brother’s absence, to postpone discussion of the same again for the next meeting. Thereafter, the President handed over his office of President to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who in turn handed over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld the office of Scriba , which duty, at the latter’s request, was performed for the day by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 109

The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Aleman. The 2nd block - the the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The old city (i.e. Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Teyken. Further, proceeding to the election of another deacon in place of Mr. Thornton who, had left for Kalpitiya, the Ensign and Free Burgher Johannes van den Broek was elected as deacon out of a dual panel of nominees, and it was resolved to report the same to the Government along with a copy of these proceedings for their approval and permission to have him duly installed in his office. Those who were standing by with their requests were then called in, and there came in Johannes Altendorph, who requested appointment to the vacancy of schoolmaster at Galle, who was accordingly recommended to His Excellency the Governor for approval and permission to have him summoned here for testing. After this, there also came in one Willem de Silva, a soldier in the Company’s service here, and one Catharina, daughter of Johannes de Vry and Simoa (sic) Fernando, aged about 17 years, the former of whom with three witnesses who accompanied him requested that his baptism in our Reformed Church at Jaffna be recognised, but the latter that her Roman Catholic baptism be recognised on the testimony of the witnesses produced: the former of which was allowed according to the usual practice, and the latter was allowed on this occasion, and the Scriba was authorised to issue certificates of baptism to both parties. Finally, at the request of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz that the Church records which were in his custody for well over six months now be handed over as usual to the custody of one of the other bretheren, it was unanimously resolved to have them handed over to the next in turn; and the meeting then terminated with thanks giving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Silvius (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( pro tem [ pore ] Scriba ); Elders J.H. Scholtz and J.B. Teyken.

Censura Morum of 29th June 1763 (p. 158)

Absent: The Rev. H. Philipsz and the elder J.H. Scholtz (both indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was specially convened for the purpose of holding the usual Censura Morum prior to the services of Holy Communion. Wherefore then the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting having been read, and no remarks having been made thereon other than that the brothers Franke and Qualenbrink requested to be furnished with an extract regarding the statutory fine for their absence at the meeting from the minutes, which was granted and the Scriba was directed to give it to them. So, after the signing of the minutes, proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports having been received against any of the present or absent members, the necessary arrange- ments were made by the President in consultation with the members for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion; and the bretheren having nothing special to report on their recent house visits, the meeting, proceeding further to discuss the conduct of the Church members, it was observed that Mr. de Bock had not yet presented himself (lit: appeared) before the Session to comply with the Church order regarding newly admitted members, wherefore then, in order finally to dispose of this matter, it was resolved to summon him Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 110 immediately through the Sexton to appear before the Session, in order to comply with the decision at the last Censura Morum meeting; but since he (Mr. de Bock), to the great regret of the Session, made reply through the Sexton that he thanked this Consistory (for their efforts), the meeting, having duly deliberated over this uncivil act of indifference, decided to abandon this matter and not to recognise him as a member of the Church (lit: to regard him as a person unknown to us). Thereafter, the newly admitted members Justin Lokhart Reyt and Elizabeth Danielsz were accepted on their answering to the three usual questions and they were admitted to the Lord’s Table along with four others, namely: Pieter Jansz, the bookkeeper Cyrillus Bustarts, Jacob Groos and Miss Helena Cornelia Kriekenbeek, who had brought their ’ attestaties ’ from other places with them, and their names were to be announced and registered in the membership roll at the earliest opportunity. Hereafter, it was decided that the service of Holy Communion next Sunday in the Dutch Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Teyken and Potken and the deacons Messrs. van Velsen and Stegwey; and the house visits of the native congregation were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz with the elder Mr. Scholtz, and the service of Holy Communion for this congregation by the first named person assisted by the elders Messrs. Aleman and Scholtz and the deacons Messrs. de Moor and Franke. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Kalutara and Cotta in the month of May, but that he hadn’t an opportunity to do so at Negombo, which charge was also entrusted to him in the future. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld too reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Potken in April last, which work on this occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, it being his turn to do so, assisted by the elder Mr. Aleman. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrands, requested that arrangements, be made for the Church records, which had now remained in his custody for longer than the prescribed time, be handed over to the person who was next in turn: which request was allowed, and it was decided that they be handed over to the Rev. Mr. Silvius in the presence of the elders Messrs. Aleman and Scholtz. These matters having been dealt with, and those who had requests to make having been called in, there came in a daughter of Catharina Dias, named Aletta Varle, residing at Kalutara, who declared that she was baptised in our Church but that a record of the same could not be traced in both registers, and she asked that the same be recognised: and her requests was allowed on these grounds and the [***]. There also appeared before the meeting the Tamils named Pedro ter Zyden, Magdalena Rodrigo and Adriaan Rodrigo, who declared that although they were truly baptised in the Roman Catholic Church, their priest had refused to grant them a certificate of baptism because they wished to marry in our Reformed Church, and they therefore requested that, in order to achieve their object, they may be recognised and accepted by us as persons who were baptised, and as their statements were confirmed to the meeting to be true by reliable persons, so these requests too were similarly allowed as in the case of the foregoing requests. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with the benediction. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (Scriba), J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: D.J. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 111

Potken; Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink and G.J. de Moor.

Extraordinary meeting of 28th July 1763 (p. 160)

Absent : The Revs. H.Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J.H. Scholtz and B. Aleman; and Deacon: G.J. de Moor. After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris, on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative. After which, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who acted for the Rev. Mr. Silvius as President, said that he had convened this meeting on account of two letters which were delivered at his house, which, on being opened and read, were found to be addressed to this Consistory from the Classes of Delft and Amsterdam, and contained the Synodal Acts of South and North Holland held in the year 1762 at Buuren and in the year 1761 at Hooren: which were accepted for record and for reply in due course. Hereafter, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday the 9th of July 1763. ”Whereafter, an extract of a resolution of the Consistory here having been read out, ac- cording to which the Ensign of the Burgery Johannes van den Broek has been elected as a deacon in place of the Junior Merchant Thomas Thornton who had left for Kalpitiya: which election was accordingly approved. (Certified by): Gratiaen, sworn clerk. This was noted for necessary action. Finally the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld informed the meeting that the former Lesson Reader of Hanwella Mr. Huibert Gerritsz, who was now for a long time at Galle, had asked for his Church attestatie in a special letter, and as he had been out of this City for a long period, the meeting resolved in the first instance to write to the bretheren at Galle and ascertain his present conduct in order to reply to his request. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elder: D.J. Potken; and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting of 19th September 1763 (p. 149)

Absent: The Revs. S.A. Broneveld and J.J. Fybrands (on commission); Elders: B. Aleman and D.J. Potken; Deacons: A. Van Velsen and J.J. Qualenbrink. The meeting having commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled a letter which was addressed to this, Consistory, which, on being opened, was found to be from, Batavia, dated the 13th of June 1763, containing a detailed report on the state and condition of the churches and schools there: which it was resolved to file of record for reply in due course. The minutes of the previous meeting were then taken up, but in view of the absence of most of the members who had attended it, the signing of the same was put off. Hereafter, the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Silvius to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who in turn handed over his office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 112

The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the Elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Aleman. The inner and outer cities - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Scholtz. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in the free maids named Leonilda and Florentina, requesting that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recog- nised, which requests, after due investigation, were allowed to them, as well as that of the free slave youth Filander, who had made a similar request. Further, there came in the Tombokeeper who submitted a list of the names of members who had died, which was noted for due record. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (Acting President), H. Philipsz (acting Scriba), H. Silvius; Elders: J.H. Scholtz and J.B. Teyken.

Censura Morum of 28th September 1763 (p. 150)

Absent : The Revs. H. Silvius, H. Philipsz; Elders: B. Aleman and J.B. Teyken; Deacons: G.J. de Moor, A. Franke and C. Stegwey. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened for the purpose of holding the usual Censura Morum, but before proceeding to do so, he tabled two extracts which read as follows:- Extracts of the minutes of the Council of the Indies on 17th June 1763. ”In an extract of a resolution of the 13th of this month passed by the Reformed Church Consistory here, in the name and on behalf of the Synod of North and South Holland, the Consistory having requested that this Government may be pleased to issue appropriate orders against the ingress of Roman Catholic missionaries within the Company’s territory, it is accordingly hereby resolved to renew by means of Circular the order against the admission of Roman Catholics (even in places where they have formerly been tolerated, and the write to the Ministers everywhere, especially those in the Western Comptoirs, to take all possible precautions to prevent the encroachment of the same and the spread of the Roman Catholic religion. (Below): Certified by; I.W. Falk, Chief Secretary. (Countersigned by): J. de Vos, 1st sworn clerk. Collated by): J.P.S. Cadenski.” Extract of a letter dated 14th July 1763 from Batavia to Colombo. ”As regards matters concerning religion, which were duly considered according to Your Excellency’s advice of the 25th of January, nothing of importance has come before us (i.e., come to our notice), except that the Predikant the Rev. Mr. de Zilva, who was summoned from Trincoinalee to Malabar, had died at. Mannar, and that Your Honours had summoned (i.e. called over) the Rev. Mr. Spoor and the Rev. Mr. Jansz who had come ., over from the Netherlands, the former to Galle and. the latter in place of the Rev. Mr. Zilva to Malabar, and also that Your Honours had not been able to furnish statistics of the native Christians because the visits of the Christian schools could not be done at any other places than at Jaffna and at Colombo, and that the total number of Dutch Christians throughout the entire Island amounted to 1665 members; and since we on going through the successive resolutions passed by Your Honours have noticed inter alia that the Roman Catholic Christians has made strong representations at Your Honours meeting of the 31st of July, requesting that Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 113

their children may be allowed to be baptised and married by their own priests, and that Your Honours had on that occasion allowed them to be married before Commissioners and the Secretary or an authorised officer at the outposts; we therefore trust that they will remain satisfied with that decision and continue in their so exaggerated good intentions towards the Company, for the continuance of which we however can think of no more effective means than , that of watching (i.e. taking precautions), as far is it is possible, against the further encroachment of persons of this denomination, in compliance with our decision of the 17th of June, based on an extract of a Church resolution which was submitted to us, a copy of which is sent herewith for Your Honours’ information. (Certied by): J. de Vos, Provisional 1st sworn clerk. (Collated by): J. Andriesz. It was resolved to discuss this matter at a subsequent meeting, and to circulate the said extracts meanwhile among the members who were absent. Whereupon, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read out and signed, and the newly admitted members were called in and they responded to the three usual questions; and the bretheren who had done the responded to the three usual questions; and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, none of the bretheren had any report to make either against the present or the absent members of the Consistory or against any other members of the Church. The administration of Holy Communion in the Castle Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the brother elders Aleman and Scholtz and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and van den Broek, and that in the Wolvendaal Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Teyken and Potken and the Deacons Messrs. de Moor and Franken; and the house visits of the native congregation was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Teyken, and the visit of the Leper Asylum to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Teyken. At this stage, the Scriba reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in June last assisted by the elders Mr. Aleman, and at Cotta and Kalutara in August and September, but that he had not been able to do so at Negombo for the same reasons as stated at the previous Censura Morum meeting. This was noted, and the visits to these outstations were allotted to him, and the visits to Panadura, Nagamuwa and Dandagamuwa to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; after which the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, D.J. Potken; and the deacons; J.J. Qualenbrink and A. van Velsen.

Extraordinary meeting of 18th October 1763 (p. 152)

Absent: The Revs. H. Silvius and J.J. Fybrandsz (both indisposed), H. Philipsz (on account of his father’s illness); Elders: B. Aleman and D.J. Potken; and Deacon: A. Franke. After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative. The President then said that this meeting was convened on account of an extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received containing the notification of the day of Prayer, and also particularly to ascertain whether any of the bretheren had any remarks to offer on the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 114 previous extracts which were tabled on the day of the Censura Morum meeting, which was circulated on account of the absence of most of the members. The extract regarding the day of Prayer read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday the 10th of September 1763. ”Further, as the, time was now nigh for the departure of the return fleet to the Netherlands, it was resolved to hold the annual day of thanksgiving, fasting and prayer on Wednesday the 9th of November next, and in order that it may be devoutly observed, to issue the following notification regarding the same both here as well as to the dependent comptoirs. Notification of the day of Prayer. The adorable Providence having been pleased hitherto to safely preserve and protect us, and also favoured us with the desired-success (lit: results) in the recent troubles of the Honourable Company in this Island in its measures (lit: undertakings) against its enemies, we feel ourselves wholly obliged and consider it to be most essential to acknowledge the hand of the Almighty God and to bow down before the throne of his all-powerful Majesty and express our gratitude and thankfulness with all, the inhabitants of this land as a nation (lit: people) who have been favoured in a very special manner. And the more sensitive we are of God’s protection and his mercies, the more obliged are we to feel a shamed of ourselves and to humble ourselves over the though (i.e. consideration) of our poor (lit: bad) response, and over the conviction of our manifold sins and transgressions, of; which we have been guilty. Various circumstances therefore combine to make us awaken ourselves to show our gratitude and humility and to submit ourselves as true Christians to acknowledge and worship our God for his Providence towards us. Considering God’s goodness to us on the one hand and our anxiety on the other, we have today resolved in the Council of Ceylon order (lit: prescribe) that a special day of thanksgiv- ing, fasting and prayer be celebrated, throughout this Island on the 9th of November next, in order that we may submit ourselves and the interests of the Honourable Company and our beloved Fatherland to God’s almighty care, to acknowledge the pro- tection of the Almight God and to adore Him, in order that his special goodness, whereby each one of us has been preserved (lit: protected) in his possessions in these lands and in our beloved Fatherland in such perilous times, with the freedom of worship and of justice, and to praise Him with thankful hearts, and at the same time in all humility to confess our unworthiness, repentance and regret over our manifold sins, and to implore that we may be spared from the righteous judgment which we have reason to fear, and to pray for a merciful forgiveness of all our acts of unrighteousness and for a sense of reformation and conversion in our conduct and manner of life; while we should also pray and implore the Providence of God for the welfare of the Dutch Company in general, and especially also that the blessings of God may be bestowed on our return fleet and all our sailing vessels, that they may arrive safely and speedily at their destined ports (lit: havens), and that God Almighty may be pleased to, continue his goodness (lit: favours) towards us and preserve our land and our Church from all danger under His almighty protection. Finally, it behoves us also to humbly pray to God that this land may be preserved from all subtle and open attacks of our enemies, that the husbandman (lit: tiller of the soil) may enjoy the desired fruits of his labours, and that trade and all honourable commerce and business may thrive and flourish, to the glory, of God’s most holy name, for the progress of Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 115 the Christian faith, for the conservation (i.e. preservation) of our freedom and the salvation of our souls. And we therefore forbid each and every one to conduct (i.e. carry on) any trade or business on the aforementioned day of obligation, to which end, this notification shall be publicly announced today from the pulpit in all the churches under this Government, and tomorrow from the public highways, in the presence of the Honourable Fiscal and members of the Court of Justice, and in accordance with the godly intentions of the same, that the service on the 9th of this month shall be duly conducted both in the morning as well as in the afternoon., upon the penalty prescribed before in the placcaats . Colombo, the 5th of November 1763. By order of the Hon. Mr. Lubbert Jan van Eck, Councillor Extraordinary of the Netherlands Indies, Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof and the Council. (Signed): Johannes de Vos, Provisional 1st sworn clerk,” The above extracts were noted for record and due compliance and, in regard to the latter extract, in view of the. absence again of most of the members, it was resolved that all those who should be informed of the same should be notified in writing by the President, so that they may all in any case be aware of the same in case all the bretheren do not happen to attend a subsequent meeting. Hereafter, the ’attestatie’ of the Catechist Carel Solly was accepted, and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje (Scriba); Elders; J.B. Teyken and J.H. Scholtz; and Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting of 2lst November 1763 (p. 167)

Absent: Elder: J.D. Potken; and Deacons: G.J. de Moor and J.A. Franke. After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened especially to hear the sentiments of the Reverend bretheren on the two extracts mentioned at the previous Session, and thereafter take due action as may be necessary and useful for furthering the interests of God’s Church here. To which end, having read and considered the opinions of most of. the members as to the way in which the Roman Catholic religion has encroached itself (lit: gone out of bounds) from day to day and, advanced to such a degree that their priests not only preach their false doctrines (lit: sow the weeds) freely and undisturbedly everywhere in the country, but also even appear here in the City and the Castle and dare in the broad daylight to conduct their services openly at the time when we hold our services in the inner and outer Churches; likewise that the same also takes place at Slave Island and in and outside the City by the Roman Catholic priest named Maal who has come over here from Tutucorin and by others who reside here; it was accordingly unanimously resolved to respectfully request His Excellency the Governor., orally to take such measures as he may deem to be best in the circumstances against the encroachment and the spread of the said religion. Further, the question having been raised as to who should undertake this Commission to speak to His Excellency the Governor, it was decided to depute the President and the Scriba for this duty, after their first ascertaining from His Excellency when it would be convenient for him to see them. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 116

Hereafter, the minutes of the previous session having been read and signed, the President tabled two letters addressed to this Consistory, both of which, on being opened, were found to be from Galle, the first conveying their thanks for the Synodal Acts which were sent to the bretheren there for their perusal, and the second being a short report regarding the number of Church members and native Christians there; whereupon it was decided to file them for due record and the forward the said Synodal Acts to the bretheren at Jaffna. Hereafter, the Scriba was entrusted with the task of preparing the letters to the Fatherland and to Batavia and as regarding the matters that should be mentioned therein it was decided that the inward letters be answered as usual, with a general report on the state and condition of the churches and schools and our awareness of the Synodal Acts of South and North Holland, and also an acknowledgment with thanks of those of the Consistory at Batavia regarding measures against the ingress of Roman Catholic missionaries and informing them of our decisions today in regard to the said extracts and also the reasons therefor. Finally, the children of a certain free maid Leonilda, named Jan and Arend, were accepted for baptism on the production of an act of adoption; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz (Scriba), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: J.H. Scholtz and the Deacon; J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting of 3rd January 1764 (p. 171)

Absent: All the Elders and Deacons, except Brother Qualenbrink. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the Political Commissaris said that he had nothing special to report on behalf of the Government; and after the minutes of the previous Session were read and signed, the President and the Scriba said that they had fulfilled the commission entrusted to them at the last Session, and that having respectfully discussed the matter with His Excellency the Governor, His Excellency had replied that he will look into (lit: be watchful over) the matter and take steps to see that the Roman Catholic priests do not conduct services an the old City (i.e. Pettah) or in Slave Island, which the Session was gratified to hear and wished God’s gracious help in His Excellency’s intentions. Before proceeding further, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje respectively, and the question was raised by the former as to whether he (as Epistolarum Scriba ) should make mention in the letters to the Fatherland of the decision of this Consistory by the Roman Catholics, which was answered by a majority of the members, and the relevant minutes of the Session of the 21st of November last too were similarly read and signed especially in order that the same may be correctly conveyed without any misunderstanding. The following arrangements wore then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks -by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Teyken. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Scholtz. An ’attestatie’ produced by Mr. Dietz was duly accepted by the meeting and handed over to the Scriba , along with the names of those whose Roman Catholic baptisms had been satisfactorily testified, for registration in the respective (Membership and Baptism) rolls, their names being as follows: Machdalena Pieris, Francina, Faustina, Catharina Konraam- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 117 perumaal, two named Maria and Filidus with his wife Maria, both of them being servants of His Excellency the Governor Mr. Van Eck. Finally, a request by Miss Bauersax that a certain little girl be admitted for baptism in our Church was granted, and the Tombokeeper submitted the names of those who desired admission to Holy Communion on the Confession of the Faith and were present at the meeting, which requests too were allowed. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje (Scriba), S.A. Bronsveld; and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum of 11th January 1764 (p. 172)

Absent: The Rev. S.A. Broneveld; Elders. B. Aleman and B.J. Teyken; Deacons: J.A. Franke, G.J. de Moor and J. van den Broek (all of them on account of illness or official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting [was convoked] especially for the purpose of making arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and Signed: and the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except that two ’attestaties’ were received, which were handed over to the Scriba as usual for necessary action. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were made by anyone against any members of the Consistory, nor were any reports received against the conduct of any Church members, except in the case of the wife of the Elder Mr. Scholtz on account of a certain embarrassment in regard to her behaviour, which was discussed by the members and referred to the Scriba for further investigation and action (lit: handling) and report back to the Con- sistory. The services of Holy Communion were then arrange for according to the respective turns of duty as follows:- In the inner Church - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Teyken and the deacons Messrs. de Moor and van Velsen. In the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Aleman and Scholtz and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and van den Broek. The house visits (of the native congregation) - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elders Messrs. Aleman and Potken. The visit to the Leper Asylum - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Scholtz; and The visits to the outposts - by the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz. Finally, one Anna Pieterse came in and produced proof of her baptism in our Church at Jaffna, and requested to be furnished with an extract of the same by this Consistory: which was granted; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs, J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje (Scriba), H. Philipsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz and D.J. Potken; and Deacon: J. Quaalenbrink. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 118

Extraordinary meeting of 25th January 1764 (p. 173)

Absent: The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: B. Aleman and J.B. Teyken; Deacons: G.J. de Moor and J.A. Franke (All of them either being on official duties or indisposed). The meeting having commenced with prayer, and the Political Commissioner having said that he had nothing to report, on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened for the purpose of reading, discussing and signing and sealing the letters to the Fatherland which were now ready for further disposal, after the reading and signing of the minutes of the previous Session. It was resolved that the report regarding the state and condition of the churches and schools at Jaffna, which was opened by the President at the meeting today, were received top late for inclusion in this year’s reports, and it was accordingly passed on to the Scriba , who was directed to write to the Consistory there requesting them kindly to send in their said reports to us in the future in sufficient time for communication to the Netherlands. Further, on account of the absence of two Predikants , the Elders and two Deacons, the point was raised whether this meeting, should proceed to the election of the new Deacons, and the meeting was unanimously of the opinion that it would be quite in order to proceed with the same since it is seldom in any case that all the members are present; and the Rev. Brother Bronsveld alone felt embarrassed, in this connection, that the meeting was not fully representative, and he wished that a note of the same be recorded in the minutes, but he did not however object to proceeding with the said election. Proceeding then to the election, out of a panel of six nominations received, namely: Jo- hannes Everhardus Jongbloed, Petrus van Dort, Nicolaas Marthynsz, Lourens Perera, Ellas Raket and Joost D’Moor, the meting, by a majority of votes, elected as Deacons Messrs, J.E. Jongbloed, N. Marthynsz and L. Perera in place of the outgoing Deacons Messrs. Quaalen- brink and Franke and the deceased deacon Mr. Stegwey; and it was resolved to report the same with an extract of these proceeding to the Government for approval and for permission to have them installed in office. Whereafter the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje (Scriba); the Elders: J.H. Scholtz and D.J. Potken; and Deacon: J.J. Quaalenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting of 20th February 1764 (p. 174)

Absent: The Revs. H. Silvius and S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: J.H. Scholtz (reasons not stated), B. Aleman and J.D. Potken and Deacon: Franke (all of them on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that he had received a letter prior to the meeting, and after the Political Commissaris who had been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government had replied in the negative, it was found that the said letter was from the Classical Synod held at Amsterdam on the 11th January 1764 and contained also the Acts of the Christian Synod held at Enkhuysen in the year 1762. The meeting resolved to circulate these for perusal among the members of this Consistory and those at Jaffna and Galle; and as regards the letter, which contained matters of impor- tance for our Seminary, it was decided to discuss it further at a subsequent meeting of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 119

Consistory, and to hand it over in the meanwhile to the Scriba Synodii for disposal with the other inward letters, which was immediately done, and the minutes of the previous Session were then read and signed. Regarding an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon taken by Circular on Monday the 30th of January 1764, which read as follows: ”Further, the decision of the Church Consistory dated the 25th of this month regarding the election of the Ensign and Adjutant of the Burgery Johannes Everhardus Jongbloed, the Bookkeeper and Member of the Landraad Nicolaas Marthynsz and the Bookkeeper Lourens Perera as Deacons of this City was approved. (Below): Certified by J.F. Gratiaen, sworn clerk.” This was noted for necessary action, and it was decided to proceed immediately with their installation in office. Whereafter, two ’ attestaties ’ in favour of Mr. Mappa and his wife and the Catechist Mr. Perizonius, and also two Roman Catholic baptisms of Moergappa and Pedro were approved; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ); and Deacons: G.J. de Moor and A. van Velsen.

Ordinary meeting of 9th April 1764 (p. 175)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Philipsz (both indisposed); the Elders: Messrs, Scholtz, Aleman and Teyken (on official duties); and the Deacon Mr. van den Broek (indis- posed). After invoking Jehovah’s holy name, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report oh behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The President then said that this meeting was convened to make arrangements as usual for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the President and Scriba reported to the meeting on behalf of His Excellency the Governor that His Excellency had appointed another person who was a member of the Reformed Religion as Chief of the Chetties and dismissed the former Roman Catholic Chief: which was. noted by the meeting; and in this connection, the Rev. Mr. Silvius too reported that he had visited Tutucorin but not Kalpitiya as the Chief at this place was unable to send out any vessels there on this occasion, and that on his visit he had baptised seven children, one of them being on an act of adoption, and admitted seven members to the Church, whose names were handed over to the Scriba for due registration, and that he had also, subject to approval, appointed as Elder there the Junior Merchant Johannes Erfson in place of the late Andries van Nes, and as Deacons the Trade Officer Frans Le Dulx and the Assistant Jacobus Wiltschut, in place of the deceased deacon Jurriaan Christiaan Arendsz and the outgoing Assistant Frans Pieris; and that he had found that the number of Church members there amounted to 41 persons in all. After this, the office of president was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and that of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Scholtz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 120

The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Mr. Teyken. Requests from Gimara Gids and Cleopatra that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recog- nised on their Confession of Faith were allowed, and a request from one Parana Sattambigey Dona Jeronima of Pas Betal (modern Wattala) for admission to Holy Communion was also approved. A report by the Tombokeeper regarding the deaths of Pascoaal Perera Vidana and Adriaan Fernando, potter of Toppu, was noted for information and necessary action; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (Acting President), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz, Elder: D.J. Potken; and Deacons: G.J. de Moor and A. van Velsen.

Extraordinary meeting of 12th April 1764 (p. 176)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (on duty), H. Philipsz (sick); Elders: Aleman and Teyken and Deacon: Van den Broek (all of them for similar reasons). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris having said that he had no report to make on behalf of the Government, the President tabled a latter which, on being opened and read, was found to be from Middelburg, dated the 20th of May 1763, containing a full report on the affairs of the Church and the State there, and devoutly compiled on behalf of all there by the Rev. Johan Hendrik Schmidt, v.d.m. at Vlissingen and ... Depp, Scriba , which the meeting decided to note for reply in due course. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the Synodal Acts were handed over to the Scriba for despatch to the bretheren at Galle and Jaffna, and the baptism of one Cattona of Baddegama, who was born in the year 1737 to parents named Diepittiegey Siman and Duwege Adriana and baptised in our Reformed Church in the year 1738, was recognised; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (Acting Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.D. Potken; and Deacon: G.J. de Moor.

Censura Morum meeting of 18th April 1764 (p. 177)

Absent : The Revs. H. Silvius and S.A. Bronsveld (on duty); the Elder Aleman and the Deacons: de Moor, Franke and van Velsen (all on official duties), and the Deacon van den Broek (indisposed). After invoking God’s blessings and presence, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Before doing so, the minutes, of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the outgoing brother Deacons were thanked by the President on behalf of the Consistory for their faithful services and duly led out of the meeting, and the newly elected and installed Deacons were introduced and allotted their seats in the Session. Hereafter, the bretheren who had done their house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The newly admitted Church members then came in and after they had answeree to the three usual questions which were put to them, they were admonished to live a holy life, and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 121

their names were noted for due announcement and registration, along with two ’ attestaties ’, one being in favour of Johannes Lachener and the other in favour of Mrs. Anna Petronella de Wayover, which were produced by the Presidents accepted. While the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius too, made by letter, that Mrs. Jacomina Lever, wife of Johan Gerard van Angelbeek, be allowed admission as a guest at Holy Communion on her undertaking to obtain her Church ’attestatie’ from Batavia was also allowed. Hereafter, proceeding to the Censura Morum, no complaints were received against the life or doctrine of any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the Church, except in respect of the conduct of the brother Elder Scholtz and his wife, which matter, as mentioned in the last Censura Morum meeting, was referred to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje for further investigation, who now made a report on his findings to this Consistory, that brother Scholtz and his, wife should be told that, in order to prevent a public scandal (lit: offence), both of them should abstain from the Lord’s Table until such time as their affairs (i.e. differences) are settled and a good report on them is received, which decision was immediately conveyed to the former (i.e. Elder Scholtz) and was readily accepted by him, and the same was to be conveyed to the latter (i.e. Mrs. Scholtz) by the President after the meeting. Further, on receipt of an unfavourable report regarding the conduct of Christina. Hendriks, a sister of the congregation who is alimentad by the Diaconate, the matter was referred to the brother Deacons for their investigation as far as possible and report to this Consistory. Thereafter, the service of Holy Communion in the Castle Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, it being his turn to do so, assisted by the elders Aleman and Potken and the Deacons de Moor and van Velsen, and that in the Wolvendaal Church was allotted on this occasion to. the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Potken and Teyken and the deacons Jongbloed and van den Broek; and the house visits of the native congregation was entrusted to the Rev. Messrs Ondaatje and Phillipsz with the elders Aleman and Teyken. The visit of the Leper Asylum which, according to the report of the brother elder Scholtz, was last, done by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, was now to be done by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Aleman. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at other places on account of the troubles of the times and the lack of coolies, and similarly the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had not been able to visit the outposts for the same reasons, so this duty was again entrusted to both of them. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz (Scriba), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.B. Teyken; and Deacons: N. Marthynsz and L. Perera.

Extraordinary meeting of 30th May 1764 (p. 178)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius; Elders: Scholtz, Aleman and Teyken (all of them on official duties); and Deacon van den Broek (indisposed). The meeting commenced with prayer, and the President said that this meeting, was con- vened in view of a letter which he had received yesterday, and also on the requisition of the pro tem [ pore ] President and the Scriba . Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 122

Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative the minutes of the previous session were read and signed by the members who were present; and the letter having been opened and readmit was found to be from Rynsburg dated the 7th of March 1763, which the bretheren decided to note for record and reply in due course. Hereupon, a letter addressed to the Consistory by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz was tabled, which read as follows:- ”Reverend Sirs and Beloved Bretheren Since we, as Church officers, are obliged to communicate with you on matters regarding religion which come to our notice, we therefore have the honour to inform Your Honours of our concern in these matters, with the request that, if Your Honours deem it appropriate, the same may be taken up at your proceedings and recommended favourable to the Government. It was on the 20th of March last that our Honourable and respected Governor was pleased to remove us from preaching duties in the Inner (i.e. Fort) Church, and subsequently, on the 7th of this month, that we, in a letter which was tabled before the School Board, came to know that His Excellency the Governor had considered that we, as Joint Predikants at, the Seminary who have to go round to the country in the Company’s territory under the name of missionaries, do not belong to and have no right to attend the sessions either of the Consistory or the School Board and should be discharged (i.e. removed) from them and be subordinate and submit ourselves, to these Boards and their members, and that early action should be taken to give effect to this (lit: to deal accordingly with us, the undersigned). We beg to, submit, Reverend Sirs, that this has caused us no little dismay and anxiety, since we can think of nothing that would be more conducive to a belittlement (i.e. slight) of our office as action of this kind, and it also contravenes in many respects and militates against the godly office in which, with the goodness of God, we are still engaged. For, when we consider the purpose for which we are called and sent out, it is, to quote from our Act of Appointment issued to us by Their Excellencies the Directors (of the East India Company) which are signed by the respective Predikants , with the solemn laying on of hands, for the appointment of godly and qualified persons who are set apart (i.e. devoted), in the capacity of lawfully called Predikants , to preach God’s Holy Word is such places as are assigned to us, to administer the Sacraments, to conduct public prayer with, Christ’s congregation, and to maintain good discipline and order among themselves and also among the Elders and the Deacons, and to conduct everything according to God’s Word and in conformity with the Confession of Faith and the Christian Catechism of the Dutch, churches, without resorting to other instructions in this, respect”. Consequently, in the same capacity in which all other Predikants are sent out to this Government, so we too immediately, without any solicitation (i.e. application) on our part, shortly after our arrival here, were legitimately called (i.e. appointed) by the Government and approved by the Government at Batavia, and after a period of five years service, were further confirmed in the said office by a new.(i.e. fresh) Act of Appointment by Their Excellencies aforementioned; so that we could freely answer ”Yes” and ”Amen” to the first question of the Formulary of our confirmation (or induction), namely: ”Whether you feel in your heart that you are truly called to this Holy Office by God’s congregation and therefore by God Himself?”; which we honestly would not have been able to do in this missionary office (i.e. capacity), which was only a mere marginal order (lit; disposition) of His Excellency the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 123

Governor on a resolution of the School Board. When we, refer to the instructions issued to the Consistory for their compliance during the administration of His Excellency the Hon. Jan Schreuder, we find these words there: ”All Ministers shall be bound by their letters of appointment and the promise made by them, to reside and to serve their congregation in the places assigned to them by the Governor and his Council, provided that care is taken to see that this is done to the satisfaction of the bretheren, for truly no lawfully called shepherds of their flock may, according to God’s Word, desert them without lawful (i.e. genuine) reasons, or be separated (lit: torn away) from them against their good will and pleasure as well as the wishes of their beloved fold (i.e. congregation) without ignoring and disdaining the glorious example of the greatest Shepherd of all, our Lord Jesus Christ”. When we consider the common practice of the churches both in the Netherlands as well as throughout the Indies, we find that a Predikant is seldom or never called out from an important charge (lit: congregation) to one of less importance unless it be with his assent (i.e. satisfaction and pleasure) emanating from pure feelings of love for greater devotion (lit: devoutness), or against his will and pleasure as a punishment on account of his unworthy administration of his congregation; But we have now been called by the Government of this Island and approved by Their Excellencies’ at Batavia as we have already mentioned and served the Dutch congregation here for a period of six years and performed all the duties which are normally performed and have always been performed by a European Predikant . Whereas now the Great Shepherd Jesus has in His gracious goodness called us for so long a period in the past to the holy office of Pastor (lit: Shepherd) here and given us the oversight of the same, we therefore do not feel free in our minds to leave this most important and respectable congregation and go over to places where there is no. congregation, from definite cities and Churches to the outlying districts, hilly areas, sinners’ (lit: publicans’) huts and sea-coast areas, and to leave such a compliant and beloved people for those of a stubborn and hostile type such as the Papists, the more so especially since it is always our genuine intention to be not only learned but also exemplary shepherds through God’s free grace. We submit, that it would be paradoxical if we are to be deprived of a seat either in the School Board, which consists not only of Scholarchs but of both Scholarchs and Predikants , or in the Church Consistory, which is composed not only of Elders and Deacons but also of Predikants , Elders and Deacons, and also in the Board of Curators of the Seminary (of which we were members throughout the period of our service and were considered to have rendered valuable help in all its affairs and even in the examinations held at the Seminary and other Colleges in both our mother-tongues) but have to serve in the capacity of missionaries and travel (lit: roam) throughout the countryside; and we therefore request Your Reverences to reflect whether this is reasonable in view of what we have mentioned above, and whether it would be consonant (i.e. compatible) with the regard (i.e. respect) with which we have hitherto been held, yea and whether it would not be repugnant to the Sinhalese and Tamils who are already dissatisfied if we are also not regarded as Predikants like the others: and if so, why we were hot given the duty of ordinary visiting only during our period of six years’ service with a view to edifying all and sundry in their mother tongue. We request Your Reverences to consider whether it would not be a paradox, which would Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 124 give occasion for people to think that we have sone something wrong (lit: criminal), or that we are unworthy of holding office like the other Predikants ? We therefore feel that we are deprived of being of any practical use in the future in the service of God’s Church and of being able to see the fruits of our labours, since we will always be looked upon with with certain feelings of secret suspicion in the minds of the people, besides the fact also that we shall be deprived of the calling which has been permanently and. legitimately bestowed upon us through no fault of ouw own, and also that it does not even dimly show that the calling and approval which we have already received from Batavia has even been fruitful and productive! Surely everyone who is acquanitad with the country and its manner of life and conditions would easily suspect that this action towards us now is not only undeserved but must also tend to cause the utmost contempt towards us, as His Excellency the Governor of Ceylon the Hon Jan Schreuder, when he proposed the new arrangements for the Seminary, had also very rightly remarked, when he prescribed (lit: introduced) the same, that since the students in the Seminary come out not only as Proponents , but all of them without any exception, in the capacity of Predikants , and that instead of serving in the country they minister in our Churches, it should therefore be acknowledged that this status of Predikant which has been bestowed on them, though they are Tamils and Sinhalese by birth, does not require them to adopt and take to ways of life and conduct, which are so essential for achieving our object, by associating themselves daily everywhere with the native inhabitants and identifying themselves with such people in certain ways by a humble manner of living, which too has also been advocated (i.e. recommended) by the members of His Excellency’s Council and also approved by the Supreme Government of the Indies. In this respect therefore, this Missionary type of order against which we protest is un- justifiable, quoting the Ceylon Resolution of the 30th of October 1760, as the same amply demonstrates our representations in this respect, since they have hitherto had no relevance at all but were previously applied in our favour as we have mentioned above. Furthermore, even the native Proponents who serve in the Seminary since its inception have never been required to perform the duties which are now demanded of us; for they have always had a place of residence, yea, even allowed a dwelling-house at the Company’s expense, and encouraged to edify and exhort to pure ways of life the people in some of the schools in the districts adjoining their houses and the people belonging to them by catechising, peaching etc; but we have been obliged to roam throughout the country to the detriment of our individual status and hold our meetings on (lit: adapt as our pulpits) hilly places and on the shores of the sea, and in the huts of publicans (i.e. sinners). It is indeed that this has been so in the time of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Apostles and also in the days of oppression and persecution, but since the establishment of Churches every congregation has been provided through the wise disposition of our Sovereign with one or more consacrated Pastors (lit: shepherds), even as we ourselves have been so ordained by our Lords and Superiors. It is not difficult therefore to deduce therefrom that we are unable to submit ourselves to this type of missionary work without making ourselves guilty of a shameful disrespect of the godly honour which so remarkably distinguished our position, and shows a foolish ignorance of the Dutch Confession of Faith accepted in the Dutch Church, which we have pledged ourselves to uphold see especially in this connection Afiticles 30 to 32. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 125

As regards the Lutheran missionaries, the circumstances are quite different in their case, for those who come out in the capacity of a Predikant ’s calling have (i.e. are allowed), as we understand, a definite station or Church where they serve; but those who come out as Missionaries, although they too are assigned a definite place for their residence where they meet, nevertheless do not always remain in such places but betake themselves into the country to places where their Ministers, whom they have previously trained (i.e. educated) and who are stationed everywhere in the country, where they not only make careful investigations regarding the said Ministers and the state of their congregations, but also regarding their work in edifying them (i.e. the congregation), which they do not fail to do as often as the opportunity is afforded during their journeys to and fro, which is entirely different to what is expected of us, but which, on the contrary, is similar to (i.e. corresponds to) the annual school visits which are done here, although in this respect it does not always seem to be the case with us, since no consideration is given to see whether the person who is committed to this work understands the native (i.e. indigenous) languages, and. more especially whether he is devoted to such work or not. As regards the Roman Catholic priests, a number of whom are no doubt to be found in this Island, it is wellknown that if they travel throughout the country, they however have their fixed stations and churches where they generally reside and from where they generally travel from one place to another, and besides this, as regards the ways and means employed by them and what devices and cunning ways they resort to in making the people adhere (i.e. hang on) to them: surely, if we follow their footsteps in this respect, as we are now expected to follow their example, the Government as well as the Church should rather allow us to do so on a particular circuit, and we shall then run greater risks than could be imagined (lit: feared). We admit and even thankfully acknowledge that we have attained this position through the favour and at the expense of the Honourable East India Company, which we would otherwise never humanly have possibly achieved, but this has indeed never been held for a reproach against us in Europe, as it has often been thrown at our faces’ (lit: put into our dish) out here, where we are called by a certain nickname ’De vrye bedenking’ (i.e. The Freebooters). Similarly, we do also acknowledge that through the favour of the Hon. East India Com- pany, we also now draw a reasonable monthly salary as wages (i.e. 80 guilders etc); but nobody could however deny, yea and we do quite freely and fearlessly challenge the entire congregation here in this respect, that we have not done nor even now do less work than those who enjoy salaries of 150 or 130 guilders; and nevertheless, notwithstanding all slander and contumely because of our having been educated at the expense of the Honourable Com- pany, whereas no such distinction or reproach has ever been shown in the case of a private student or one who has been educated at the expense of the State. Besides this, consideration has also not been given to the fact that since we were educated the expense of the Honourable Company, we have come out here on a Salary of 70 guilders, which has been increased by 10 guilders, whereas a European Predikant , who comes out on a salary of 90 guilders, enjoys a salary of 110 guilders after a period of five years’ service and 120 or 130 guilders after 10 years’ service, and even 150 guilders in special cases. When we now consider what we have enjoyed as Wages for the past 7 years or so and what we really should have enjoyed, as the Rev. Messrs. Bronevald and Fybrandsz have Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 126

done now for the past 15 years, in comparison with others who have not been educated at the Honourable Company’s expense, we should then imagine that the loss which we have sustained would even now perhaps be compensated for. Besides this, it should not be a matter of consideration, nor should any distinction be made between Ministers as to whether they have been educated at the Honourable Company’s expense or not, and whether one should be more entitled (lit: obliged) than the other to enjoy all benefits in a greater degree than the other although it is unpalatable to one’s own flesh and blood, and was considered at first to be improper, for as the Apostle Paul definitely says elsewhere ”The necessity is laid on me etc”, this principle also generally applies to all Ministers without any distinction and not only in the case of Ministers who have been educated at the Company’s expense, and the Apostle Paul also says, as it is emphasised also in the 142nd Article of the said ”free recollections” that we should not ”separate ourselves according to race or birth” but on the contrary the Apostle Paul conducts himself (i.e. lives) ”as a Jew among the Jews and as a Gentile (i.e. heathen) among the Gentiles (lit: heathens)”. Notwithstanding this, we have been regarded as if we are not grateful to the Company for the expense which they have incurred on our behalf, and also that we have done nothing in return, even as if the other Predikants who enjoy much better terms of monthly remuneration do more than we in conformity with their remuneration, yea, that they do everything, which however the Said bretheren have never been able to prove (lit: show). Indeed, we wish, though very reluctantly, to state in this connection that we could prove that the Honourable Company has had no reason to regret (lit. complain) over what they have spent on our behalf. And this being so, we would request Your Reverences to consider whether it could justly be said of us that we sit in our homes and do nothing and that we do so more than others, and that we must therefore get a move on (lit: be on the go) to resist the Roman Catholics. It is true that this Christian assembly, observing how the said religion (i.e. the Roman Catholics) have surpassed (lit: got the upperhand over) us from day to day, and having been awakened (lit: stirred up) by an extract of Their Excellencies’ revered letter, have taken the liberty to request His Excellency the Honourable Governor orally to take such measures and means as he may deem fit considering the present circumstances of the times to check the influence (lit: intrusion) of the said Faith, and Your Reverences will know better whether or not we have fullfilled our obligations in this respect; little considering, as, we now reflect, that this would give rise to (lit: occasion for) this our present Missionary status. Surely, Rev. Sirs and beloved Bretheren, if we can anywhere resist the said Faith with any degree of success, it is here in this Capital Comptoir, since it is here that they are now, much stronger, as anyone who has the desire to take trouble to investigate for himself will frankly (lit: openly) admit. These are the reasons which we submit to Your Reverences why we are unable to agree with (lit: accept) the aforementioned Missionary, position (however gladly we are otherwise ready and willing, in accordance with godly and humanitarian laws, to obey the Government and to uphold and maintain the interests of the Churches). However, we will certainly not (lit: be it far from our intention to) refuse in any way to accept our obligations or shirk them, but on the contrary, we desire to devote our full attention to everything that is useful and necessary therefor, yea even to this Missionary work, provided we are allowed to maintain (lit: continue in) the position (lit: character) and calling with which we have hitherto been Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 127 invested, in accordance with the Confession of Faith of the Dutch Churches, as revised by the National Synod of Dort, and approved (lit: authorised) by Their Excellencies the States General of the United Netherlands, and the orders (lit: instructions) of our Lords and Masters, which we have signed and pledged ourselves to strictly observe and follow, and the. Classical (Synodal) Acts, and the instructions which we have received from Their Excellencies at Batavia. But in case His Excellency and the Council, contrary to our expectations, (lit: our hopes), are unable to accede to our request, we would then request, as it is done in the case of God’s Kingdom among the poor folk in the Indies, that the Government would kindly transfer (lit: call) us for work in another Commandment, namely the former of us the undersigned, being a Tamil by birth, to serve the Tamils at Jaffna where the services of the Rev. Mr. Sezilles who is unacquainted with the Tamil language, serve no useful purpose among so many thousands of Tamil Christians, and the latter of us being a Sinhalese by birth, to Galle, to serve the Sinhalese there in place of the Rev. Mr. Smit, who is in ,the same position in respect of his usefulness among so many thousands of Sinhalese Christians there. But, in case we happen to be so unfortunate that we can be favoured with neither one or the other of our requests, but, have to continue to wander (i.e. roam) throughout the countryside as Missionaries, then we would rather prefer that we may be permitted to make our representations in person to Their Excellencies at Batavia, and that we may be furnished with such documents as may be necessary for this purpose. (Below): We are, Reverend Sirs and beloved Bretheren, Your Reverences’ humble servant and colleagues: Signed: W.J. Qndaatje and H. Philipsz. Which petition the Session, as in duty bound, resolved to have incorporated in these proceedings, and to respectfully refer the same to the Government together with an extract of these proceedings, except the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who was of the opinion that this matter should be postponed (for discussion at a subsequent Session, since the meeting, being not fully represented was not in apposition to make a definite decision thereon. Whereafter, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz (Scriba), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacons: A. van Velsen and G.J. de Moor.

Ordinary meeting held on Monday the 18th June 1764 (p. 163)

Absent : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz and B. Aleman (all three of them on official duties); Deacon: J. Van den Broek (indisposed). The meeting having commenced with prayer, and. the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was specially convened to make the necessary arrangements (as usual) for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Before doing so, however, a letter addressed to, this Consistory was opened and was found to be from the Galle Consistory enclosing the Synodal Acts, which it was decided to file of record and to forward the Synodal Acts to the Consistory at Jaffna for their information. The minutes of the previous meeting were then first read and confirmed and signed. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Silvius, whose turn it was to take over the office of Scriba , refused to do so on account of a marginal order (lit: disposition) by His Excellency the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 128

Governor which was filed among the records of the School Board; but as this was unknown to this Consistory (who were willing to accept and obey the orders of His Excellency the Governor in every way) it was decided that he should take over the same, which he then took over subject to his protest being recorded. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and Elder Aleman. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Elder Potken. The 3rd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Elder Teyken. No one having appeared with requests, and none of the bretheren having anything further to bring up, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed: The Rev. H.Silvius (Scriba).

Censura Morum of 27th June 1764 (p. 169)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius Elders: J.H. Scholtz and D.J. Potken; Deacons: A. van Velsen and J. van den Broek. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum prior to the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Whereupon, after the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, the Brother Deacon Marthynsz reported, in regard to the case of the Church member Christina Hendriks which was mentioned at the previous meeting, that she was summoned by the Brother Deacons at their meeting and asked what defence she had to make against the charge, (lit: blame) imputed to her, and she did not comply with the sane (lit: did not do so), and that she was therefore removed from the list of persons receiving alimentation from the funds of the Deaconry: which was duly noted, and it was decided to inform her that she should abstain from the Lord’s Table until such time as she complies with the wishes of the Diaconate. Hereafter, the recently-admitted Church members were called in, and after they had re- sponded to the three usual, questions which were put to them, they were admitted to Holy Communion, and their names were to be registered after the usual announcement; and five ’ attestaties ’ too of persons whose names are entered in the Membership Roll was accepted. Proceeding further to the, Censura Morum of the members of this Consistory and other members of the Church, no unfavourable reports were received against any of them. Similarly too, nothing special or unfavourable having been mentioned by the bretheren who had done the recent house visits, it was decided that the service of Holy Communion for the Dutch congregation be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Silvius assisted by the Elders Messrs, Aleman and Potken and the deacons Messrs. Van den Broek and Jongbloed; and that the service for the native congregation at the Wolvendaal Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Teyken and the deacons Messrs. Marthynsz and Perera, and that house visits preparatory to this be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz with the elders Messrs. Potken,and Teyken. Hereafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in the month of June with the elder Mr. Potken, which duty was allotted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Teyken, and he (Mr. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 129

Fybrandsz) also reported that he had administered the Sacrament at Cotta and Kalutara, but not at Negombo on account of the lack of opportunity owing to the disturbances. Similarly, Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered the Sacrament during the preceding month at Panadura, but not at the other outposts owing to the lack of coolies; and the visits to the outposts were to continue, to be the charge of these two bretheren. Hereafter, the Roman Catholic baptism of a certain girl named Mariana, aged 3 years and 4 months, daughter of the Tamil schoolmaster named Gaspar Casiechitty and Savina Pieris, was recognised, as well as that of a woman named Johanna, as due and satisfactory proof was furnished in both these cases. The meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), S.A. Bronsveld (Acting Scriba ), J.J. Fy- brandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: B. Aleman; and Deacons: G.J. de Moor, J.E. Jongbloed, Ns. Marthynsz and L. Perera.

Ordinary meeting of 24th September 1764 (p. 166)

Absent: The Rev. H. Silvius (in view of his departure), Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (said to be on duty in the Seminary); Elders: B. Aleman and D.J. Potken (both on official duty), J.B. Teyken (in view of his departure); J.H. Scholtz (indisposed); and Deacons: Ns. Marthynsz and J. van den Broek (both of them indisposed) and A. van Velsen, (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, and after the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government had replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was specially convened to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion; and at the same time, he tabled a letter and a packet which he had received; but on account of the absence of the abovementioned members, it was decided to make arrangements for the house visits only since this cannot be put off, which was accordingly done as follows:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and Elder Aleman. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Potken. Further, in view of the absence of the Rev. Mr. Silvius whose turn it was to take over the office of President, and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld whose turn it was to take over the office of Scriba , the duty of convening the next meeting for the holding of the Censura Morum was delegated, in the absence of the Rev. Messrs. Silvius and Bronsveld, to the present acting President the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; And it was also resolved to inform the absent members of the same by circular and ask whether they agree to the same. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. (N.B: These minutes are not signed by any of the members).

Censura Morum of 3rd October 1764 (p. 164)

Absent: The Rev. H.Silvius; Elder Mr. Teyken (on school visits), the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, Elder Scholtz and Deacon Mr. Van Velsen (all on account of illness). After invoking God’s holy name, the President informed the Session of the usual purpose for which this meeting was convened, and said that the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld had informed Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 130 him through the Sexton that he was unable to undertake, the duty of Scriba because he would not be able to serve in that capacity for a period of 6 months, whereupon the meeting, after careful inquiry and investigation that His Reverence had not performed this duty for a period of even three months, unanimously, decided to delegate the duty of Scriba to him according to the order in the roster. The letters having been tabled by the President and read out they were found to be, the first of them, addressed to this Consistory by the Classis of Delft, Delfsland and Schieland enclosing the Synodal Acts, and the other was from the Church Consistory at Batavia: it was resolved to note these for record and reply in due course. The minutes of this previous meeting having then been read and. signed, following the order of procedure and the roster, the office of President was delegated to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and that of Scriba similarly to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, and it was resolved to inform Their Reverences accordingly through the Sexton. The following recently-admitted Church members were then admitted to the Lord’s Table with God’s blessings on their having responded to the three usual questions which were put to them, namely: Joseph Byerbach, Johannes Fernando, ... Catharina Anthonia van der Blom, Maria Alkandea, Anna Catharina Smit, Anna Elizabeth de Zilva, Amelia Niedin, Dona Joanna, Dona Dominga, Savina Fernando, Machdalena Brito, Christina Jurie Ondaatje and Lovisa Jurie Ondaatje; and also certain persons named Johannes Ridder and Johan Henrich Hofman who had brought but their ’ attestaties ’ with them, and one Jurgen Wychhart van Ginschym, in the case of the lastnamed person, provided that he first undergoes a brief examination which was delegated to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Aleman. The bretheren having nothing special to report on their recent house visits, the meeting proceeded to the Censura Morum both over the present and absent members of this Con- sistory, as well as over the other members of the congregation, and no unfavourable (lit: censurable) reports were received against any of them or in regard to their conduct. The cases of those who were already under censure and had shown no improvement in their conduct were allowed to remain in statu quo ; and in the case of one Amelia Jansz, who had persistently neglected to attend at Holy Communion, it was resolved to summon her to appear before this Consistory to explain the reasons for the same, and to deal with her thereafter according to the Church Orders. The service of Holy Communion in the Inner Churct (i.e. Fort) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld with the elders Messrs. Aleman and Teyken and the deacons Messrs. Marthynsz and Perera; that in the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz with the elders Messrs. Potken and Teyken and the deacons Messrs. de Moor and van Velsen, and the preparatory house visits for the same were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with the elder Mr. Aleman and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz with the elder Mr. Potken. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz then said that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at Kalutara and Negombo owing to the lack of suitable opportunities; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he could not visit any of the outposts that were entrusted to him on account of the lack of coolies, which duty was therefore again entrusted to him and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz; and the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was delegated to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Aleman. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 131

Finally, a request from one Caila Joan Cadirgamen, a resident of Uduvil in the Jaffna district, of the vellala caste, to be recognised as having been baptised in our Reformed Church on production of his baptism certificate and testimony, was granted, and his name was to be duly incorporated in our baptism register. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: D.J. Potken; and Deacons: G.J. de Moor, J. van den Broek and Ns. Marthynsz.

Ordinary meeting of 31st December 1764 (p. 185)

Absent: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: B. Aleman (on official duty), J.H. SchoItz (sick) and B.J. Teyken; and all three Deacons. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make arrangements as usual for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion; but before doing so, he tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution on behalf of the Political Commissaris, which read as follows: Extract from the proceedings of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 26th of November 1764. ”It was also resolved to appoint the Church Member and Hoofd Administrateur Mr. Daniel Burnat as Political Commissaris in place of the Upper Merchant Mr. de Ly. (Certified by: Johannes de Vos, provisional 1st, sworn clerk).” This was noted for information and due compliance and His Honour (i.e. Mr. Burnat) was duly felicitated and welcomed by the President. The President also tabled four letters, one being from Trincomalee, one from Galle, ons from Jaffna and one from Negapatnam, the first three containing the reports on the state and condition, of their churches and schools, which it was decided to deal with in the usual manner, and as regards the last letter which was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Gebhard notifying His Reverence’s arrival there, it was resolved to send a due acknowledgment of the same. Hereafter, the office of President was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and that of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Arrangements were then made for the house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Teyken. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and deacon Jongbloed. The administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Teyken. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz then reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta in the month of December, but not at Kalutara and Negombo owing to the lack of coolies. Hereupon, the President enquired as to what matters should be mentioned in the reports to the Lords Superiors (in Holland) and, the respective Classes and to the Church Consistory at Batavia, and it was decided to reply as usual to the incoming letters and to report on the present state and condition of the churches and schools in this Island as usual, and this task was delegated to the Rev. Mr. Silvius it being his turn to do so. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 132

Further, the President tabled a copy of a report on the Seminary which he had presented to His Excellency the Governor, and requested that it be read and incorporated in the reports to the Fatherland (in as far as it is relevant for the purpose). Finally, two attestaties of Mrs. Jacomina Lever and Mr. Jan Hendrik Borwater, and also an Act of Adoption passed at the Secretariat here whereby the Foreman of the Type Foundry Mr. Renaldus Hendriksz declared that he had adopted a little girl named Rosemond: all of which were recognised (i.e. accepted), and also a request from Mr. Daniel Jansz in regard to his baptism by a Roman Catholic priest. The Tombokeeper and a few schoolmasters then came in and were dismissed with the usual commendations; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (president) and J.J. Fybrandsz (Scriba).

Censura Morum of 9th January 1765 (p. 187)

Absent: Elders: B. Aleman, J.H. Scholtz and J.B. Teyken; Deacons: J. Jongbloed, L. Perera and A. van Velsen. After invoking God’s holy name, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the three usual questions were answered by the recently admitted church members, and they were dismissed with God’s grace and blessings, after which the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, as none of the bretheren had any report to make against any of the present or absent bretheren of this Consistory or against any of the other Church members, the administration of Holy Communion in the Church in the Castle was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the elders Messrs, Potken and Teyken and the deacons Messrs. van Velsen and de Moor, and that in the outer Church (i.e. Wolvendaal) to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje with the elders Messrs, Aleman and Scholtz and the deacons Messrs, Jongbloed and van den Broek, and the preparatory House visits of the native congregation to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the elders Scholtz and Teyken. Thereafter, the attestaties of Hendrik Schimmelketel and Augustus Ribeiro and a baptism certificate of the latter were accepted; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje (Scriba) and H. Philipsz.

Extraordinary meeting on 21st January 1765 (p. 188)

Absent: Elder B. Aleman (on official duty) and Deacon: A. van Velsen. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened partly to read through and discuss the letters to Holland and Batavia which had been made ready by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and to sign them for transmission to the Government as usual, and partly to elect new elders in place of the outgoing bretheren Scholtz, Aleman, Dirk Potken and B. Teyken, and new deacons in place of the outgoing bretheren van Velsen, J. van den Broek and G. de Moor. The former business having been attended to, and proceeding to the latter, the following double panel of nominations were receded by a majority of votes, namely: for the office of Elder - The Chief Auditor Mr. B. Raket, the merchant Mr. Diederich, the Lieutenant Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 133

Dessave Mr. P. Blankert, the Treasurer Mr. G.E. Holst, the Second Auditor Mr. W. Visser, the Secretary of the Court of Justice Mr. B. Kriekenbeek, the Shopkeeper of the Small Stores Mr. S. van Lier and the Secretary of the Orphan Chamber Mr. Qualenbrink; and For the office of Deacon Messrs. Klomp, Wynroos, Franchimont, Charlet, Hartenberg and Elias Raket; our of which dual panels the following were then duly elected by a majority of votes: namely: as Elders - Messrs. B. Raket, Pieter Blankert, G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser, and as Deacons - Messrs. G. Franchimont, Hartenberg and Elias Raket; and it was resolved to report the same to the Government together with an extract of these proceedings for their approval to appoint and install the newly chosen members. The meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz (Scriba), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: J.H. Scholtz and Deacon: C. de Moor.

Ordinary meeting on 25th March 1765 (p. 189)

Absent : The Political Commissaris, The Rev. Mr. Silvius; Elders: Messrs. Raket, Blankert Aleman, Potken and Teyken; and the Deacons: Messrs. van Velsen and van der Broek. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened partly to make arrangements as usual for the services of Holy Communion, and partly to felicitate and welcome the newly-elected brother elders, and deacons, and to heartily thank the out- going bretheren for their loyal services and their assistance to this Consistory, which was accordingly done after the reading, confirmation and signing of the minutes of the previous Session. After this, the President tabled two extracts received from the Political Council, which read as follows:- Extract of a Secret letter to Colombo by His Excellency the Governor from the Army Headquarters in the Kingdom of Kandy in the Royal. Villa (i.e. country-seat) near the Mahaveli River dated 17th February 1765. ”Since we have now fared most prosperously with our arms in every respect (i.e. in the war against Kandy), whereby the Kingdom of Kandy has been overpowered and subjugated to the Company so fortunately and with such little loss (i.e. casualties) that it has sued for peace and received the same even as a gift from us, we should firstly fully acknowledge the special favour and blessings of the Almighty God and therefore ascribe all praise and thanksgiving to Him: therefore, would Your Honours please notify the same to the, revered Consistory and request the brother Predikants to offer public praise and thanksgiving to the Lord our God on Sunday next for His help and assistance and the special blessings (lit: grace) which he has hitherto bestowed on us, and also that we may be more mindful of them in our prayers. (Below): Certified by: A. Moens, Secretary pro tem [ pore ].” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 22nd of February 1765. ”The members of this Council, having assembled at the summons (lit: convocation) of the pro tem [ pore ] President, the following extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory on the 21st of January last regarding the election of new Elders and Deacons was firstly taken up and read, namely: In place of the outgoing bretheren, as Elders: The Merchant Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 134 and First Auditor Bartholomeus Jacobus Raket, the Lieutenant Dessave Pieter Blankert, the Treasurer Gerrit Engel Holst and the Second Auditor William Visser, and as Deacons the Sworn Clerk of the Political Secretariat Gerrardus Cornelis Franchimont and the Book- keepers Isak Hertenberg and Elias Raket; and it was resolved to approve the election of the aforesaid persons and to have them installed in office according to, the usual Church procedure. (Certified by): Johannes de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” Which was duly noted for necessary action and compliance. The ’ attestatie ’ of the Hon. Mr. Martin Rijn, which was tabled along with these extracts was handed over to the custody of the Scriba . Hereafter, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fy- brandsz and Ondaatje respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forth- coming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Raket. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankert. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Holst. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Raket were appointed to visit the Leper Asylum, where, on the occasion of the last visit, the Lord’s Supper was administered to four members by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld assisted by the elder Scholtz. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz also reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotton the 24th of February last, but as regards the other outposts, he said he had not been able to visit them for the same oft mentioned reasons, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz too reported likewise that he could not do so on account of his journey to Kandy. Finally, the baptism of a young boy named Hendrik on a Secretarial Act of Adoption annexed hereto, and a Roman Catholic baptism of a maid named Nathalia were allowed in accordance with the usual procedure; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; Deacon: L. Perera.

Censura Morum of 3rd April 1765 (p. 191)

Absent : The Revs. H. Silvius and S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: Mr. Raket; Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz (the reasons for their absence being unknown). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened spe- cially to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the recently-admitted Church members, who had responded to the three usual questions, were wished God’s blessings, and their names were handed over to the Scriba along with an ’attestatie’ which was tabled, for due registration in the Church Membership roll. The extract of a Political Council resolution and a notification regarding the handing over and transfer of the assets of the Poor Fund were tabled and noted for due compliance, and it was resolved to incorporate the same as usual in these minutes as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 1st April 1756. ”The Right Hon Mr. Lubbert Jan, Baron van Eck, Councillor Extraordinary of the Netherlands-Indies, Governor and Director of the Administration in this Island and the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 135

Coast of Madura, having passed away to his rest in the Lord at 3 a.m. this morning, and the members of this Council having assembled immediately to make the necessary decisions as usual regarding arrangements for the Central Administration, the funeral procession, the mourning orders and further ceremonial matters on such a sad occasion, it is accordingly resolved and decided as follows:- ... Sixthly: that the period of mourning for His Excellency our late Governor by all qualified officers of this Government shall be six weeks, commencing here from the day of burial and at the subaltern comptoirs as soon thereafter as they can do so after receipt of this sad news, and it will be observed in the following manner:- For Commandants and other members of the Political Council of this Chief Comptoir, the Honourable Dessaves at Jaffna and Matara, the Chief Officers at Trincoinalee and Tutucorin and the Administrators at Jaffna and Galle: (by the wearing of) Black coats (lit: coats of black material) and black silk under-clothing with buttons of the same material up to the waist and silk lining, mourning-cuffs at the lappels and with a mourning-band round the head and with mourning-swords and buckles; For Merchants, Chiefs and Junion Merchants and all Civil Officers of similar rank as the lastnamed: linen or silk clothes, without mourning-cuffs and without mourning-swords and buckles. For Military officers, those in the Artillery and ranks corresponding thereto, from the rank of Colonel up to that of Adjutant only: a black crape round the left arm and a black crape or knot of ribbon round the sword; The other officers and inhabitants being at liberty to mourn in whatever manner they may choose to, provided that they do not in this respect surpass (lit: go beyond) the manner prescribed for the Merchants and Junior Merchants aforementioned; And lastly, for housewives and widows of the members of this Government and those of similar standing: in silk or linen with a black base (i.e. background). (Below): Certified by: Johannes de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by C.G. Hasz. Notification: ”The congregation is hereby notified that at 9 a.m. on Thursday next the 1st of April, in the Church here, the due account and transfer (i.e. handing over) of the administration, statements of income and expenditure of the Poor Fund during their term of office, and a balance sheet of their books of account as at 31st August last, by the outgoing Deacons to the present and newly-elected Deacons, will take place, with open doors and in the presence of Special Commissioners of the Political Council, the Court of Justice and the Church Consistory of this place; therefore, anyone desiring to attend at the same at the time and place aforementioned is at liberty to do so as usual. Colombo, the 31st of March 1765. By order of His Excellency the Governor Lubbert Jan van Eck. Signed: J.G. van Angelbeek (Secretary).” Further, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz who informed the bretheren that, one Hendrik Hekkars requested that he may be allowed to attend as a guest at Holy Communion until such time as his ’attestatie’ was received from the Fatherland; which request was allowed, provided he underwent a brief examination on his Faith (lit: beliefs), since it would not be possible to get his ’attestatie’ so easily and conveniently. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, enquiry was made as usual regarding the, conduct of the Church Members, and firstly of the members of the Church Consistory (both those Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 136

present and absent) and also of the other members of the congregation, and none of the bretheren who were present had any definite unfavourable report to make. Then, in regard to the arrangements for the service of Holy Communion, this was entrusted acoording to the roster to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elders Messrs Raket and Blankert and the deacons Messrs. Perera and Jongbloed; the service in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser and the deacons Messrs. Marthynsz and Franchimont, and the preparatory house visits to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the elders Messrs. Raket and Blankert. Finally, two persons who were under censure came in, requesting that this Consistory would be pleased to readmit them to Holy Communion, as they had since tried to live a good Christian life up to the present time and intended to conduct themselves in a good Christian manner in the future: whereupon it was resolved to allow the same on the present occasion after prior investigation of their statements. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders; G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; Deacons: L. Perera, J.C. Franchimont, Elias Raket and I. Hertenberg.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1765 (p. 193)

Absent : The Revs. H. Silvius, S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: P. Blankert; Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz. (All the above being on account of illness, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who was fined since His Reverence has habitually kept away from meetings without a proper excuse (lit: without notifying the reasons for his absence). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris was first asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he answered in the negative. Thereupon, after prior reference to the members (i.e. on the question being put to the house), the usual fine was imposed on the Rev. H.Silvius as His Reverence had absented himself from the meeting without any notice whatsoever, and it was resolved to send an extract of this minute to the brother Deacons for necessary action. Finally, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed by the members: who were present, and it was also resolved to incorporate in these minutes the extract of a Political Council resolution regarding a funeral oration which had already been delivered, which was circulated to members and was now tabled by the President, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 4th of April 1765 . ”It was also resolved to inform the Church Consistory that the Rev. H. Silvius has at the request of this Government, undertaken to deliver the funeral oration on the forenoon of Wednesday next at the usual hour in the Church within the Castle (Fort) in memory of the late Right Hon. Mr. Lubbert Jan, Baron van Eck, in his lifetime Councillor Extraordinary of the Netherlands-Indies, Governor and Director of this Island (of glorious memory), in the hope that the Reverend Bretheren will comply with this arrangement. (Below): Certified by: Johannes de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk”. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 137

Whereafter, the office of President was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and that of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. H.Silvius and the elder Mr. Visser. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Raket. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankert. As regards the ministrations at the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Fybrands reported that he had done so only at Cotta on the 15th and 16th of December, but not at Kalutara and Negombo, on account of the lack of coolies, for which reason too the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had again not been able to visit his three outposts on this occasion too. Among those who had requests to make, three persons from Jaffna (who had shown Mr. Ondaatje proof of their baptism in our Church there after Mr. Ondaatje had previously brought up this matter before the Session) requested that their baptisms may be recorded in our Baptism register; and three others too, named Louis, Pedro and Juliana, requested that their Roman Catholic baptisms nay be recognised: all of which requests were granted and their names were to be recorded in the native Baptism Register. Further, having considered that the circumstances in which baptism on an Act of Adoption has been carried out (lit: taken place) for some years past, and still takes place do not altogether conform with the godly intention with which it was introduced, since some people, owing to the posts involved in obtaining a Secretarial Act of Adoption, are prevented from carrying into effect (lit: embarking on) their good intentions; and several others who are indifferent (lit: insouciant), for the same reason, allow their slaves and others to be baptised by Roman Catholic priests and then apply to us to have such baptisms recognised; while others who are nevertheless willing to meet the expenses involved do not however wish to be constrained thereby to emancipate (i.e. set free) their slaves or slave children immediately, partly because slavery is not contrary, to (lit: does not militate against) freedom, nor does the possession (i.e. owning) of slaves contravene the principles of Christianity, and partly because they do not wish to expose themselves to any disrespect or disdain in regard to all the obligatory duties which could ensue therefrom and has often even happened before. This Consistory therefore considered that it was very necessary and useful for preventing such inconveniences and for the greater progress and advancement of our religion to respect- fully request the Government by sending them an extract of these minutes, to absolve such persons from the payment of the abovementioned expenses as well as from the bond (i.e. undertaking) to emancipate their slaves, so that they may be in a position to attain their object without any restraint whatsoever and much less by having to resort to any crafty measures. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; Deacon: Louis Perera.

Censura Morum of 3rd July 1765 (p. 195)

Absent: The Rev. H. Silvius (on whom the usual final was imposed as he has not submitted an excuse for his absence), the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld (indisposed); Elder P. Blankert (on Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 138

official duty); Deacons; Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz (indisposed) and Hertenberg (at Kalutara). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum prior to the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and signed, and the recently-admitted Church members were called in, and when they had answered the 3 usual questions which were put to them, they were dismissed with the blessings of the Session. Meanwhile, the requests of Henrietta Sibella, Maria Amarantia Leeman and Lienda, all of whom had also made their declaration of faith for admission to Holy Communion, were also allowed; namely, that their names may be recorded in the Baptism register, the first named as having been baptised in the year 1747 by the Rev. Mr. Potken at Trincoinalee according to the testimony (i.e. affidavit) of Geertruida Windau, wife of the Sergeant here P. Wynhart de Ner; and the second named as having been baptised at Galle according to the testimony of the wife of the Rev. Mr. de Reus; and the lastnamed as having been baptised by a Roman Catholic priest, on the testimony of Magdalena Henders and R. Hendricks. There also came in Johannes Linderman and Martin Bladen, soldiers, requesting that they may be admitted as guests at Holy Communion, which was allowed by the Session on condition that they underwent a brief examination by us in regard to the faith prior to the service of Holy Communion. Further, the bretheren who had done the house visits having said that they had nothing special to report, two ’ attestaties ’ were tabled and accepted, namely: that of D.J. Klomns and Mrs. Johanna Soholman; and the requests of Johannes Christopher Wolvius, 1st clerk, and Arnout Keller Doctor, of Jaffna, both of whom were recommended by the Commandant here for admission as guests at the Lord’s Table, were also allowed. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, and no reports having been made against the life and. doctrine of any of the present members of the Consistory or against the conduct and behaviour of any of the other Church members, it was decided that the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (i.e. Fort) Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld (it being his turn to do so), assisted by the elders Holst and Visser and the deacons Marthynsz and Franchimont, and that at the Wolvendaal Church by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted, by the elders Raket and Blankert and the deacons Perera and E. Raket, after he had done the usual preparatory house visits of the native congregation along with the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion with brother Raket and the Leper Asylum, and this task was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Silvius with the elder Mr. Blankert, and the visits to the outposts were entrusted to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz. In view of the lateness of the hour (lit: as it was now beginning to get dark), and the bretheren having no further business to bring up, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (president), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elder: G.E. Holst; and Deacon: Louis Perera. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 139

Extraordinary meeting of 28th August 1765 (p. 196)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. H. Silvius (who submitted no reasons for his absence V to the Session), The Revs. Bronsveld and Fybrandsz (both indisposed); Elders P. Blankert (not at home), B. Raket (on official duty); and Deacon: Ns. Marthynsz (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was Convened in view of some letters which he had received. Hereupon, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government , having replied in the negative, and the letters having been opened and read, two of them were found to be from the venerable Classis of Delft, Delfland and Schieland. dated at Rotterdam the 20th of August 1764 and at Amsterdam on the 10th January of the same year, in which latter letter there was enclosed by the Rev. Tako Sibeling, in the name and on behalf of the Deputies of the Synod of South Holland, all addressed to this Consistory, and especially forwarding the Synoda Acts of South and North Holland held in the year 1764 at Dordrecht and in the year 1763 at Edam; and one letter was from Trincoinalee, containing a full report on the state and condition of the churches and schools there; which letters the meeting decided to file of record and for reply in due course, and also to discuss certain points mentioned in the letters from the Classis at a subsequent session, and in the meantime to send the Synodal Acts to His Excellency the Governor as usual for his perusal, and thereafter to the bretheren at Galle and Jaffna. Hereupon, the President tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution which was circulated to the bretheren, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 10th July 1765 . ”After discussing an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory regarding baptism on an Act of Adoption of slaves or slave children, which read as follows:- (Text incorporated) It was resolved to approve of the proposal made therein, on the under standing that in future Acts of Adoption will be issued free of charge and that the owners of slaves who bring their slaves or their children over to the Christian community by baptism shall be at liberty either to emancipate them at the same time from their state of slavery or to continue to retain them in that capacity. (Below): Certified by: Johannes de Vos, provl. sworn clerk. (In the margin): Collated by: R.W.B. Fledderus.” This, was noted for information and due compliance, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the credentials and ’ attestaties ’ of the Catechists ( Krankbezoekers ) of four ships which had recently arrived, as well as that of the Captain Lieve van Renter having been produced and found to be in order, were handed back to them. Finally, the opinions of the members were sought in regard to the action of the Rev. Mr. Silvius in absenting himself from the Consistory meeting, as he has now. already done on three previous occasions, without any notice to the Session as mentioned above, as such conduct is not only disrespectful (or prejudicial) to this Assembly, but also contravenes the orders of the Government in the extract of their resolution of the 9th of June 1758; and it was resolved, in accordance with the orders in the said extract to impose on His Reverence again the fine of 10 rixdollars, and at the same time to inform His Excellency the Governor respectfully of His Reverence’s continued absence from these meetings without any notice whatsoever, and to request His Excellency’s orders thereon. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 140

The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elder: G.E. Holst; and the Deacons Messrs. Jongbloed and Perera.

Ordinary meeting on Tuesday the (5)th of October 1765 (p. 198)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld ; Elders: P. Blankert. and W. Visser (both indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened specially to make the necessary arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. But before proceeding to do so, the President tabled an extract of a letter which read as follows:- Extract of a letter dated 25th June 1765 from Batavia to Colombo . ”Meanwhile, among the more important matters of the Consistory in Your Honour’s, letter, of the 31st December, and the extract of the resolution of the Consistory of the 30th of May last, we have, to our no little displeasure, found mentioned (lit: inserted) therein a certain letter (lit; document) addressed by the Predikants Messrs. Philipsz and Ondaatje which was tabled (or discussed) over, there, tendering a series of far-reaching (i.e. extensive) arguments’ and specious pretexts (i.e. pleas), followed by a definite refusal to go out as Missionaries, which work they were specially required to do, to teach, admonish (i.e. edify) and preach, and also several other unbecoming statements (i.e. expressions), which we hereby overlook and ignore on the present occasion on the presumption that in the view of Your Honours’ reproof in the decision at the session of the 6th of December and the further measures taken, they will refrain in future from all such frivolous requests as they have made to the lawful Ruler; or we maybe otherwise compelled to punish such petulant insults further according to their deserts; and we therefore hope that Their Reverences will, as they have hitherto done, not only continue to devote themselves with all due respect to the advancement of the great and Christian object and intention of the Hon. Mr. Van Eck that their talents in the Sinhalese and Tamil languages should be employed in a practical (lit: exemplary) and wholly Christian manner in our Korales , and Pattus where there are churches and schools, but also that, as far as it lies in their power, they would labour in the Vineyard of our Lord for the increase (i.e. growth) of Christ’s congregation among the heathens to be found there and for the glory of God Almighty, and we are sure that their labours will then not go unregarded but will be crowned with all the dearest blessings in life. Certified by: Joannes de Vos, 1st sworn clerk.” On being; asked whether any of the bretheren had any comments to offer on the above, no one had. anything to say, except only the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Ondaatje, who presented an unsigned document which read as follows:- ”It is not without most grave feelings of regret (lit: pain) and extreme sorrow that we observe that we have been represented to Their Excellencies the Government at Batavia as if we had contravened and flouted the devout and godly intention and the efforts of His Excellency Mr. van Eck to spread abroad and expand Christ’s Kingdom throughout the length and breadth of this Island. We are not aware that we have at any time been guilty of the same, nor are we aware of our having been reproved, as stated in the extract now tabled, citing a resolution of. the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 141

6th of December 1764 when this is alleged to have been done; but on the contrary, we are convinced (i.e. satisfied) that we have at all times endeavoured to submit ourselves to all godly and humanitarian orders and to have a clear conscience before God and man, which we could frankly and freely call upon the congregation of this place to witness. But since we, notwithstanding our good efforts have nevertheless been ’branded’ in such a manner, we cannot refrain therefore from declaring our innocence (lit: blameworthiness) as well as our deep regret in this respect, and from requesting this Venerable Consistory to bring this immediately to the notice of our Supreme and Lawful Governor (lit: authority) by means of an extract of the above”. Which request as solicited at the end of the abovementioned document, was allowed to Their Reverences by all the bretheren, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the brother elder Mr. Raket, who were of the opinion that it would be better to remain satisfied ourselves with this declaration by Their Reverences without troubling the Government further in the matter, and they requested that t his be put to the vote. ( Continuing the above minutes ). Thereupon, the unsigned minutes of the previous session were read and approved and signed by the members who were present, and the Rev. Mr. Silvius requested to be furnished with an extract of the same in so far as reference was made to him as he was perturbed by the treatment which had been meted out to him. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Holst. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Visser. The old city and outside it - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and elder Raket. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz said that he had administered Holy Communion during the past month at Kalutara, but the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had not been able to do so at the outposts entrusted to him owing to the lack of coolies. For the benefit of the native Christians, it was resolved to send over to the Press the copy of the Acts of the Apostles which has already been translated into Sinhalese, after having it first revised and approved by this Consistory (as far as it lies in our power), so that it may be added (i.e. attached) to the Four Gospels, which have already been printed, for use in the churches and schools. The same decision was made in regard to the following Psalms as mostly all of them have been translatad into Sinhalese verse by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, namely: Psalms 51 (vs. 1-10), 103 (vs.1-11), 1, 2, 6, 21, 25, 86, 116; and, in this connection, among other matters, it was decided, to respectfully request the assistance and favour of the Government. Finally, it was resolved to release the Rev. Mr. Silvius, at his requast, from the duties of Scriba , which were entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius. ( Scriba ); J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed, Marthynsz and Perera.

Censura Morum on Wednesday the 8th of October 1765 (p. 207)

Absent: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (on duty); Elder: B.J. Raket (on duty), P. Blankert and Wm. Visser (both indisposed); Deacons: G.C. Franchimont and E. Raket (both on official Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 142 duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The bretheren had nothing special to report on their: recent house visits , except that Johannes van Gysel had requested to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion: which was allowed. Twelve newly-admitted Church members then came in and were admitted to Holy Communion on their answering the three usual questions, and their names are to be duly registered in the Membership roll. Proceeding further to the Censura Morum both of present and absent members of the Consistory, to our great joy no complaints were received against them nor even against, any other member of the congregation, except that it was resolved on account of certain doubtful cases to keep a more watchful eye to keep in touch with defaulting (lit; neglectful) communicants by visiting each one at his home with the elder. The service of Holy Communion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst (the latter in place of the elder Mr. Blankert) and the deacons Messrs. Perera and Jongbloed; and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, with the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser and the deacons Messrs. Hertenberg and Raket, the preparatory house visits for which were to be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz with the elder Mr. Raket and the deacon Mr. Marthynsz. The administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Visser. Finally, at the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, a special combined meeting with the presence of the. Political Commissaris was fixed for Monday the 2lst instant. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; and Deacons Messrs. Jongbloed, Marthynsz, L. Perera, I. Hertenberg and E. Raket,

Extraordinary meeting of 21st October 1765 (p. 202)

Absent : Elders: B.J. Raket and P. Blankert (both ill); the elder G.E. Holst and the deacon G.C. Franchimont (both of them on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was specially con- vened in view of the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius at the last Censura Morum meeting held on the 8th instant, and after having first asked the Political Commissaris whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government who answered in the negative, the President first tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council on Saturday the 28th of September 1765. ”The Confession of Faith of the Reformed Churches in. the Netherlands as revised in the National Synod of Dort as well as the Council of Nice, both of which are contained in the Dutch New Testament but has not yet been translated into Portuguese, having now been translated into the Portuguese language by the, Predikant S.A. Bronsveld, it was accordingly resolved, after mature deliberation, to convey to Their Reverences the great appreciation of this Government over the trouble that he (Mr. Bronsveld) has taken in this connection in the interests of the Church and for the growth of our true religion, and to send this translation to the Revered Consistory for examination and revision by that body, and if it agrees with the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 143

Scriptures and is approved, that it be attached (i.e. as an annex) to the Portuguese Psalm book, which has been sent to the Press for publication at the expanse of His Excellency the Governor General Mr. van der Parra. (Below): Certified and signed by: Johannes de Vos, 1st sworn clerk.” The report submitted by the Rev. Mr. de Melho on his abovementioned revision, which was circulated to members, was also previously read out as follows:- ”To the Venerable Consistory, Honourable Sirs and fallow bretheren. In compliance with the commission which Your Reverences have entrusted to me in accordance with the decision of the Council of Ceylon on the 28th of September last, to examine and revise the translation from the Dutch into the Portuguese language of the Confession of Faith of the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands, and the Council of Nice made by the Rev. Mr. S.A. Bronsveld, I have duly and carefully done so, and I hereby declare this translation is a true and correct rendering of the Dutch text, leaving the grammatical accuracy and quality of Portuguese however as the responsibility of the Reverend Translator, and hoping that I have hereby fulfilled Your Reverences’ commission (lit: requisition), I beg to remain, Reverend Sirs and belover bretheren, Your Reverences’ humble servant and colleague. (Signed): Phil. de Melho. There was also read a notification from the Government dated the 3rd of November, wherein it was observed that a Day of thanksgiving, fasting and prayer was fixed for the 6th of November: which too was noted for due compliance. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Silvius, at whose request this meeting was specially convened in order to enable him to submit his difficulties (lit: embarrassments) concerning a clause (lit: article) contained in the resolution of the 24th of June last regarding the liberty allowed to the owners of all such slaves who were baptised on Acts of Adoption to emancipate and. free such slaves from their due obligations, said that he considered this to be contrary to the objects (lit: character or intention) of Acts of Adoption, and also that those who take over these children for adoption will thereby not be in a position (i.e. will be unable) to fulfil their obligation to which they had pledged themselves by such Acts of Adoption to care for the Christian upbringing and instruction (i.e. education) of these children, and that besides this, these children would thus be exposed to the risk of being sold as waifs and aliens to all and sundry (lit: all types of persons), whereby the bond(lit: undertaking) in the Acts of Adoption would be of no avail (lit: would not serve its purpose), and whereby then the whole object of such bonds would be defeated; The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld agreed with these sentiments of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and both of them requested therefore that this clause (lit: article) in the resolution of the 24th of June last may, to the relief of their conscience, be rescinded, and the matter allowed to remain as prescribed in the earlier resolution as hitherto been practised. But as the other members then adhered to their decision as they felt that the motive with which this resolution was initiated and. proposed was self-explanatory and that the said resolution contained nothing that contravened the spirit of the former resolutions passed in this connection, and that by means of a civil enactment, which could be passed (lit: which was at hand) if necessary, there was little fear of the sale of slaves to heathens and Mohammedans; so the request of Messrs. Silvius and Bronsveld was rejected and the resolution was allowed to, remain in its entirety, against which decision these two above named bretheren immediately protested requesting that this matter be referred both to the respective Classes and Synods in the Fatherland as well as to the Church Consistory at Batavia, and their request was allowed. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 144

The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. H. Silvius ( Scriba ).

Extraordinary meeting held on the 11th of November 1765 (p. 203)

Absent: The Political Commissaris; The Revs. Messrs. Silvius and Bronsveld; Elders: Messrs. Blankert and Visser: and Deacon Mr. Perera (on official duty) After prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of two letters and three extracts which he had received, whereupon the letters were opened and were found to be: the first from Batavia containing their Church news, and the second from Galle, containing a report on the churches and the schools there; and the three extracts of Political Council resolutions regarding the discharge (i.e. release) of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and the revision of the Confession of Faith in Portuguese, together with the Acts of the Apostles and some verses of the Psalms in Sinhalese, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 1st of November 1765. ”At the request of the Rev. Mr. Henricus Silvius, it was resolved after duo deliberation to release him to the Netherlands with the second shipment on the expiry of his period of engagement, with the retention of his status and salary, and to regard him as having been discharged from today, and also to excuse him from his duties as a Predikant . (Certified by): J.G. van Angelbeek, Secretary.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on the 29th October 1765. ”Having observed from a second extract of the resolutions of the aforesaid Consistory, which was also dated the 1st of this month, that the Acts of the Apostles, together with several Psalms relevant thereto, were translated into the Sinhalese language, it was accord- ingly resolved, on the request made in this connection, to send the same to the Press (for publication) for use in the schools and churches, after the same has been carefully revised and approved by that revered Assembly or by capable Ministers of the Consistory (lit: Ministers who are learned in the languages). (Certified by: Joannes de Vos, Provisional 1st sworn clerk). ” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 29th of October 1765. ”On receipt of a report by the Rev. Philippus de Melho addressed to the revered Consistory here that the said Consistory, in compliance with the decision of this Council of the 25th of last month (September), had entrusted His Reverence with the examination and revision of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld’s translation from the Dutch into the Portuguese language of the Confession of Faith of the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands and the Council of Nice, and that this translation, in his opinion, was a faithfuly: (i.e. true) and correct rendering, it was accordingly resolved to give effect to the decision of this Government in this connection that it should be sent to the Press if the translation was found to be true, but that the said Consistory should hereby be advised to send an extract of the relevant resolutions in cases of such reports in the future as has usually and correctly been done in the past, (Certified by: Joannes de Vos, provisional sworn clerk).” Thereafter, in regard to the letters received, it was decided to incorporate them in the inward letter book for reply in due course; and as regards the extracts, it was resolved to Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 145 note them for information and due compliance. Thereafter, the President enquired what preaching arrangements it would be best to make for the Dutch Church as the Rev. Mr. Silvius had obtained his discharge (i.e. release) and even the Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Fybrandsz, apart from all exigencies, could not themselves properly cope with the same, since one could understand the amount of time and labour etc, involved in the preparation of sermons and the amount of other work to be done by these two gentlemen, as the former has to punctually instruct (i.e. train) his pupils at the Seminary according to the new arrangements (i.e. plans), do his preaching turn in the Church in the. Fort, and in no way neglect the work in Portuguese during His Reverence’s free periods, in compliance with the extract received from the Political Council, while the latter, in addition to his usual public administration, has also to do the visiting, and the outposts are in his charge, and, at the same time, also the work of revision of the Acts of the Apostles, the poetical version of the Psalms and the Sinhalese dictionary; And, in view of the importance of making proper and ample arrangements for the admin- istration of religion and its appurtenances in this capital City of Ceylon, the members of the Consistory earnestly consulted with each other in the matter and fortunately unanimously resolved that the duties of the Rev. Mr. Silvius at the Fort be entrusted to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz, without detriment however to (lit: without neglecting) the entire ministration in the Church outside the Fort (i.e. Wolvendaal) on all Sundays and feast days for the Tamils and the Sinhalese in the mornings, and in the same manner as it has hitherto been done whenever they visit this place on the summons of the Government, to exercise (lit: make use of) their knowledge of the Dutch language, which they have acquired at such great expense to the Honourable Company, in accordance with the laudable object of the Govern- ment in respect of all Predikants of the Seminary that they should fulfil their duties both within and outside the Castle to the satisfaction of all god-fearing people; and it is therefore resolved to respectfully submit the same, together with an extract of these proceedings for the approval of the Government. Further, the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz were nominated to revise the Acts of the Apostles, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, Joan Aalvis Mudaliyar and the Mohottiaar Don Zimon de Zilva for the rhymed version of the Psalms. It was resolved that the Church records be taken over by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld from the Rev. Mr Silvius in the presence of the elder Mr. Visser and the deacon Mr. Lourans Perera. Finally, having discussed as to who should be responsible for preparing the annual reports to Holland and Batavia for this year and what matters should be mentioned therein, it was also resolved that it should be done by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld (whose turn it now was), who should reply to the letters as usual, and especially convey our grateful thanks to the Venerable Classis of Amsterdam (who have so Christianly both pleased both last year and this year to persistently request that t his Consistory do make arrangements for the Seminary here to revert to its former basis), and say that we have not yet been able to begin to put this into effect but give our assurance that from now on we shall do our best as we have now been afforded the most suitable opportunity by God for this purpose with the arrival of our present Governor His Excellency the Right Hon. Mr. Iman Willem Falk, who has a pious desire and has offered his full support for re-establishing the dilapidated state of God’s Kingdom (lit: Zion) and its welfare and peace in every possible way. The meeting Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 146 then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz, P. de Melho, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders. B.J. Raket and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz.

Ordinary meeting held on the 30th of December 1765 (p. 207)

Absent: The Political Commissaris, The Rev. P. de Melho; Elders: P. Blankert and Wm. Visser; and the Deacon: H. Marthynsz. After invoking God’s holy name and accepting the Roman Catholic baptisms of Maria, a Tamil girl, as well as that of Nicolaas Carelsz, the Rev. Mr. Silvius withdrew his protest which he hid lodged in the resolution of the 21st of October, as he was now better informed in the matter. Hereafter, the President tabled three extracts of resolutions of the Political Council, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 19th of November 1765 . ”It was also resolved, on the request of the Ministers (lit: servants) to appoint a Minister to administer the Holy Sacraments and to appoint the Secretary Mr. Trek to the vacant office of Elder, on the understanding that the Rev. Predikant J.J. Fybrandsz is set apart for the work of visiting the schools and administering the Holy Sacraments at the comptoirs on the opposite Coast (i.e. Madura) and is ready to go over there at the earliest opportunity, and the installation in office of the aforementioned Mr. Trek was also approved.” (Certified by Joannes de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk). Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 9th of December 1765 . ”After reading an extract received from the Venerable Consistory of this City, containing a decision to allot the preaching turns in the Dutch in place of the Rev. Mr. H. Silvius who has been released to the Netherlands at his request, to the Predikants Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz: and it was resolved to approve of the same.” (Certified: J.G. van Angelbeek, Secretary). Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 12th of December 1765 . ”The Rev. Mr. H. Silvius, who was released on the 1st of November last at his request to proceed to the Netherlands, having now requested to be excused from his journey to Europe and to be allowed to continue in his former office of Predikant , it was accordingly resolved and decided after due deliberation, and after the Secretary Mr. van Angelbeek who is the borther-in-law of the suppliant had excused himself from the matter, to grant these two plain requests which are accordingly hereby granted, and to inform the Revered Consistory here of the same together with an extract of these minutes. (Certified by: J.G. van Angelbeek, Secretary).” The above extracts were noted for information and necessary action; and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz respectively. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the Elder Mr. Raket. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 147

The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the deacon Mr. Jongbloed. Hereafter, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum during the month of November last with the assistance of the elder Mr. Visser; and the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz too reported that they had done so at the outposts, the former at Kalutara and Cotta and the latter at Panadura. This was noted, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Silvius, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. Raket and Holst; and the Deacons: Messrs, Jongbloed and L. Perera,

Censuram Morum of 8th January 1766 (p. 209)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: J.B. Raket, P. Blankert and Wm. Visser (all of them indisposed). The meeting began with prayer, and the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting having been read and signed, the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who had done the house visits in the inner and outer city tabled two ’ attestaties ’ in favour of Abraham Meytens and Johanna Greveling, and said that he had admitted the Hon Mrs. de Graaf as a guest at Holy Communion at her request and on her promise to furnish her ’attestatie’; the other bretheren who had visited the 1st and 2nd blocks said that they had nothing special to report. Thereafter, the recently admitted Church Members were called in and on their answering the three usual questions which were put to them, they were dismissed with the blessings of the Session with the grace of God. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any members of the Consistory or any of the other Church members, the only matter that came up being the recent differences between the Rev. Mr. Silvius and his wife; and after consulting one another, it was resolved to ask the Rev. Mr. Silvius, in order to avoid all difficulties that may arise therefrom for this Consistory, to abstain from the Lord’s Table on this occasion, which His Reverence readily agreed to do. Hereafter, the President tabled a letter containing a request from Mr. Rose that he and his wife be admitted to the Lord’s Supper, which was allowed to them on the condition that they first make their Confession of Faith according to the normal; Church procedure and answer the three questions usually put to newly admitted Church members, but as the latter could not do so before the full Session according to the usual practice owing to the lapse of time, and also as the former, being a member of the Political Council could be excused therefrom, the President, who had tabled their request, was asked to fix a convenient time and place for the same. Further, the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius (who requested the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to officiate for him), and that in the Church outside the City (i.e. Wolvendaal) was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, the former being assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Franchimont and Marthynsz, and the latter by the aforementioned elders and the deacons Messrs; Jongbloed and Perera, and the preparatory house visits of the native congregation too were to be done by the aforementioned elders with the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 148

Philipsz; and the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Blankert. Finally the credentials of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Philip Ondaatje who had recently ar- rived from Batavia were tabled and returned back to him, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: G.E. Holst; and Deacons; Messrs. Jongbloed, Marthynsz and L. Perera.

Extraordinary meeting of 22nd January 1766 (p. 211)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: P. Blankert, B.J. Raket and W. Visser; and the Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz (all of them being indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened solely for the purpose of reading and approving and signing and sealing the reports (to Holland and Batavia) which had been prepared by him, which having been done, it was resolved to hand them over to His Excellency the Governor for despatch with the Company’s documents. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; Elder: Mr. G.E. Holst; and Deacon: L. Perera.

Extraordinary meeting of 29th January 1766 (p. 212)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius and J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: P. Blankert, G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; and the Deacons: Messrs Franchimont and L. Perera (all of them having excused themselves). After invoicing God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of a letter which he had received, and also to elect the new deacons, and he asked whether the outgoing deacons should not be requested to continue in office for a further period. Whereupon, the bretheren who were present resolved that the letter, which was from the Consistory of Jaffna and contained their annual report, though it was received by us late, be circulated among the bretheren and be thereofter filed in the inward letter book, but to postpone the other proposal of the President for discussion at a subsequent fuller Session. Hereafter, an Act of Adoption produced by the President was accepted, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder; B.J. Raket; and. the Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed and Marthynsz.

Extraordinary meeting of 17th February 1766 (p. 213)

Absent : The Political Commissaris and the elder Mr. P. Blankert. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened, as decided at the last meeting, to slept three new deacons in place of Messrs. Jongbloed, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 149

Marthynsz and Perera whose terms of office had expired; but since it was immediately remarked that when the terms of office of brother elders and deacons’ expire and they wished to be released, this meeting always used to ask them (whether they would continue in office) and that the said three bretheren had not yet expressed their intensions (i.e. wished) in this respect, it was accordingly resolved to await the same in the first instance, so that it may not appear as if we wanted to discharge them against their wish, and that the President kindly ask them on behalf of the Consistory, in accordance with the above resolution, whether they would agree to continue for a further period of another year, in view of the great satisfaction which they have always given to this Consistory in their personal qualities and their work, and the present difficulties in electing others in their place; and after mutual consultation between the said bretheren and the President, they readily agreed to continue in office for a further period of a year. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elder: Wm. Visser; and Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed, Marthynsz and Perera.

Ordinary meeting of 16th March 1766 (p. 214)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (sick), The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (at Tutucorin). In the absence of the President, the meeting was opened with prayer by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who said that the President would have convened this meeting especially for the purpose of making arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Hereupon, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having answered in the negative, an extract of a Political Council resolution was read out which was as follows:- Extract of the proceedings of the Politicals Council of Ceylon on Friday the 14th of March 1766. ”With the departure of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz to Tutucorin, it was decided to allot his preaching duties during his absence to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz (Certified by: Johannes Reintous, 1st clerk of the Secret Committee)”. A packet was also opened, which was found to contain the Synodal Acts of North Holland held at Alkmar with a letter annexed from the Classis of Amsterdam. Proceeding to the arrangements for the forthcoming house visits, the following arrange- ments were made:- The lst block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Holst. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Raket. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Visser and the ministration at the Leper Asylum, which was done on the last occasion by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst, was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Visser. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had not been able to visit the outposts on this occasion owing to the lack of coolies. Cornelis Eelders then came in and furnished his credentials as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ for the Chamber of Amsterdam. One J. Altendorf attended for an examination, which was put off for a subsequent and fuller Session. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 150

The Roman Catholic baptism of Simon Dirksz was recognised on the testimony of Pasquala Botteljo and Maria Dirksz, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: B.J. Raket and Wm. Visser; and the Deacons: J.E. Jongbloed, N. Marthynsz and L. Perera.

Censura Morum of 26th March 1766 (p. 215)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius and H. Philipsz (who had sent in their excuses), and the Deacons G.C. Franchimont (op. duty) and J. Hertenberg (indisposed). The meeting opened with prayer, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. The newly-admitted Church members, who had answered the three usual questions were then dismissed with God’s blessings, and the Rev. President examined one Johannes Altendorph, whose examination could no longer be delayed as he had been sent over by His Excellency the Governor some time ago. After due examination, the meeting considered that the said Johannes Altendorph was satisfactory and that he was not only capable at the present time in every way fair work along with the other ’ Krankbezoekers ’, ’ Voorlezers ’ and schoolmasters, but that he also should, for the future, as a young man of good promise, prove more and more capable in every way and worthy of the favour of the Government, and it was therefore unanimously resolved to recommend him to the Government for appointment to the said offices along with an extract of these proceedings. The brother elder Mr. Holst, who had visited the 1st block with the Rev. Mr. Silvius, on behalf of both of them, tabled two ’ attestaties ’ and also reported that they had most earnestly but fruitlessly admonished according to God’s holy Word a member of the Church, a niece of Mrs. Hagelendonk, who had gone over to the Roman Catholic religion over her unfaithfulness and conduct in this respect, and that she was not only adamant but also frankly declared her intention to insist on her brother doing the same, but that since the Rev. Mr. Silvius spoke in Portuguese and, she spoke in Dutch, it may well thus be that in such a delicate matter each one of them could not properly understand the other, so that the said brother elder had to act as interpreter as far as it was possible and therefore this brother elder asked the meeting to consider whether it would not be advisable that one of the ministers who was efficient in Portuguese (? Dutch) be sent out in the name of this Consistory to see the said errant Church Member in order if it were possible by the grace of God, to bring her to her senses and make her change her errant conduct. Which this meeting considered to be quite reasonable and godly (lit: a Christian duty), and it was resolved to entrust this commission to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who, being present, readily undertook to do so, promising that he would, after investigating the case, make a report to this Consistory. The bretheren who visited the 2nd block had nothing to report, but those who had visited the old city reported that Mrs. de Graaf had promised again to obtain her ’attestatie’ from Galle. Proceeding than to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were made against any mem- bers of the Consistory, except only in respect of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, who submitted himself to the following brotherly admonition, being, earnestly advised, in view of the re- cently renewed annoyances caused by him, to abstain on this occasion from the Lord’s Table, and he was given, a final warning that in case he did not conduct himself batter but should Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 151

again, to the great regret of the entire congregation, give occasion for a public scandal (from which may the most merciful God preserve him) he will then be dealt with according to the ordinances of God in regard to the same and the keys (i.e. privileges) of His Kingdom, and be further punished (lit: punished a step further) according to the degree of his persistence in the evil (i.e. his offence). As regards the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius too, it was. resolved to let it remain in statu quo since His Reverence had not satisfied the meeting in regard to the proceedings of the previous Censura Morum meeting, and on the contrary appears to have given further cause for scandal between this meeting and the previous one, and in view of His Reverence’s absence the meeting took the opportunity to remind him further of the same. As regards the members of the congregation of the Church here, no special-reports were received; wherefore, the meeting proceeded to make the necessary arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion as follows:- The service in the Church in the Castle (Fort), which should have been conducted by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld on the present occasion in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje since neither Mr. Brondveld nor the Rev. Mr. Silvius were eligible to do so on this occasion, and the elders Messrs. Raket and Visser and the deacons Messrs. Raket and Hertenberg ware appointed to serve at the Table. The service in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and Blankert and the deacons Messrs. Franchimont and Perera. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President and Scriba ); Elders. Messrs Raket, Holst and Visser; and the Deacons Messrs. Jongbloed, Marthynsz and Perera.

Ordinary meeting of 23rd June 1766 (p. 216)

Absent: The Rev. Messrs. Silvius and Bronsveld and the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst (who had all of them sent in their excuses). The usual fine was imposed on the Rev. Mr. Silvius. After prayer, Mr. Pieter Libert Schmidt was appropriately and duly introduced to the meeting as Political Commissaris in terms of an extract of a Political Council resolution which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 5th of May 1766 . ”The most senior Merchant Mr. Pieter Liebert Schmidt is provisionally appointed to the offices of ’Hoofd-Administrateur’ and also as President of the Court of Justice and Political Commissaris. (Below): Certified by Joannes de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” The Political Commissaris was then asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he answered in the negative. The President then read out two further extracts together with a Notification from the record in the Daily Register, which read as follows: - Extract of the proceeings of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 14th of March 1766 . Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 152

”With the departure of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz to Tutucorin, it was decided to allot his preaching turns during the period of his absence to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz. (Below): Certified by: Js. Reintous, 1st clerk of the Secret Committee.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 8th of April 1766 . ”His Illustrious the Prince of Orange and Nassauw etc. etc. having attained his majority on the 8th of March last, it was decided and resolved to amend the formularies of Oaths and public prayers accordingly by omitting the words ’and guardian’. (Below): Certified by Js. de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” On behalf of the Government of this Island. ”Whereas every sensible creature of God is naturally obliged to render all possible praise and thanksgiving to his Creator for blessings enjoyed, the obligation is even greater and the exercise thereof even more pressing (i.e. essential) according to the degree of his evident blessings, for which we are gratefully thankful. Indeed, if there ever was a land and a people who are bound in duty to awaken themselves to, the exercise of this most earnest and grateful sense of thankfulness, it is the land of our indwelling and its inhabitants in times of such blessings and prosperity, wherein the kind and all-loving God has been so graciously pleased to bestow His blessings on this land and people who have now for some time groaned under the burden (i.e. woes) of war, and to so richly bless the arms of the Company that we have now been able to arrive at (lit: strike) a so longed-for peace with the Kandyan Court (against whom the Company has been obliged to burden itself in a sort of bond-bracking war as it were in order to preserve our rights and freedoms), so that we are now not only absolutely assured of the possession of our lands, but also even directly own the entire sea-board of this extensive Island. Truly, who of us, reflecting over the events (lit: happenings) of the times just passed, would not recollect with much emotional heartbreaking how heavily the fury of the war has raged all around us, what rivers of blood have been spilled, how many of our bretheren, and how many, if not most of them in the bloom of their youth, have either been slain or unfortunately taken captive and undergone miseries in the successive military campaigns, whereby the blood of the innocents still appeals for vengeance, and the memory of so many widows and orphans and mourning attires are such daily witnesses and reminders, not to mentions so many thousands of losses sustained by the Company and the curtailed supply of provisions and the scarcity of commodities caused thereby, aoo of which perilous (i.e. hazardous) circumstances (although our enemies have suffered much more than ourselves and have finally been rendered so desperate and defenceless as to be obliged to sue to us for peace) have nevertheless been brought on us through the war, and we, having survived (lit: lived up to) a MAGON MISSABIB , a fear all around us, and nevertheless experienced (lit: seen) a cessation of all these dangers (i.e. miseries) through the Peace, have now truly great reason and much occasion for thankfulness; And especially when we, as true Christians, recollecting these sufferings and the present cessation of our miseries, also calmly (i.e. with calmness) reflect and ponder that the motives for wars are attributable to man, and that the true and genuine causes of the same can how- ever only and really be discerned through God and the ways and behavious of living of the inhabitants, of the land, as war has from ages past been the companion (i.e. characteristic) of the human race and the true sign (i.e. indication) of God’s just wrath, but that notwith- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 153

standing the same, we have not improved in our manner of conduct and behaviour but have on the contrary even obstinately given ourselves to ways of licentiousness (i.e. debauchery), irreligion, wantonness and godlessness, and when we, besides all this however, with a holy respect for God and in a fitting manner recollect how the success of all human undertakings by men depends on the free and unrestricted will of God, so that the success of war does not rest on chance or the forces of might, we. could discern that this so longed-for blessing on us and the fortunate result of the circumstances of events is attributable to nothing else than only to the mercy of God which He has been pleased to bestow upon us in such visible ways, as He has on so many occasions amply bestowed, as an object of His love and care, on our State of the Netherlands above all other nations, yea, even when we were not even yet a nation, not excluding even His own , people (the Israelites) of old, by favouring us with the most evident tokens of His wonders and His mercy; and finally, when we ponder over all these manifold blessings, which we must acknowledge with every sense favour and bene- faction, namely: that we have enjoyed the same purely through grace, and that we do not forget the same, or like JESCHURIM ’kick up our heels’, but only and especially praise and magnify the Lord our God with our offerings of gratitude, which no other god would be more pleased to receive as our humble and reasonable efforts at worship; then we feel ourselves most abundantly and humbly bound (i.e. under obligation),in the present circumstances of the times, to bow ourselves most reverently before God’s Majesty, with a deep sense of His holiness and His distress over our unworthiness and a spirit of rejoicing over our salvation, to praise God for the work of His hands; And having on the 2nd of April last earnestly and thoughtfully pondered over all these matters, we have accordingly, out of a deep sense of propriety and necessity, resolved and ordered that Monday next the 12th of this month of May (that being also the day on which we annually celebrate here the successful conquest of Colombo, the capital-city of this Government) be set apart (lit: prescribed) as a. special and obligatory day of Thanksgiving throughout all the comptoirs of this Government, to be observed and celebrated in all the Churches and meeting-places with appropriate and public religious worship and praise and reverence to God’s holy name, with the public confession (lit: acknowledgment) of our unworthiness both of the favors which He has bestowed on us and especially that. He has so mercifully heard our prayers and withheld the destruction of the afflicted and the groanings of the needy, and thus so specially and abundantly (lit: evidently) blessed both the measures of the Council as well as our campaigns in the field (of war), that we, having finally secured a long-wished-for Peace can ”beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into sickles (i.e. pruning-books: cf. Isiah 2:4)”, and that we may, as we now do, ”sit at rest in our vineyard and in our garden of figs” with the enjoyment of the precious privileges of; peace, freedom and religious worship; While, at the same time, it will be necessary to earnest pray and beseech God, not only that the Peace which we have gained will be longlasting and bring about a much desired succession of years of prosperity for the Company and the inhabitants, but also that all further well-deserved disasters and calamities which still remain in our land may be stayed (lit: turned away), so that the Company may thus flourish and be doubly compensated for the losses and the damage which it has sustained; But as we sincerely long for and desire the fruits of the Peace, it will therefore be necessary that each and everyone of us should strive to improve in our conduct and behaviour, and we Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 154

should therefore right earnestly pray for more righteousness and less indifference in serious matters, for true piety and a general abstinence from sin, as well as for a spirit of mutual love, unity and peace among us, Finally, we should also on this solemn occasion specially remember in prayer the Supreme Authority whom God has been pleased to appoint over us both in the beloved Fatherland as well as in. these lands, and thus also for the personal welfare of our beloved hereditary Stadtholder , who has already assumed office as Head (lit; taken in hand the helm) of the Government of the Netherlands and also taken his seat in the Sessions of the Right Honourable Directors; while the due announcement of the above has been made today from the pulpiy in all the churches under this Government and in the morning from the highway in the presence of the Fiscal and two Commissioners of the Court of Justice, in order that the afore-mentioned fixed obligatory day of Thanksgiving may be appropriately and devoutly celebrated both in the forenoon as well as in the afternoon, and also that all business and trade should cease and be suspended, upon such penalties as have previously been prescribed therefor in the notification regarding the usual annual day of Prayer. (Below): Colombo, the 4th of May l766. By order of His Excellency the Governor Mr. Iman Willem Falk and the Council. (Signed: J. de Vos, provisional 1st sworn clerk).” An Act of Adoption was also tabbed by the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Jan de Mey and an ’attestatie’ of Josina Dreft Meyer: which were duly filed of record. The usual fine was imposed on the Rev. Mr. Silvius on account of his absence from this meeting without any prior notice to the Consistory in accordance with the revered extract of the resolution of the Government. Whereupon, the minutes of the last meeting were read, approved and signed, and the offices of President and of Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Visser. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Holst. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and elder Raket. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he had not been able to visit the outposts on this occasion as he was away on the opposite coast (i.e. at Tutucorin), and that His Reverence had not only visited the churches and schools at Tutucorin and Kalpitiya and administered Holy Communion at these places, but had also found the congregations there in a state of peace and goodwill. The Scriba too likewise reported that he had not been able to visit any of the outposts, firstly because he and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje had to take over the preaching turns of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz in the Dutch Church on his departure to Tutucorin, and thereafter, according to the orders of His Excellency the Governor that he should preach once in every fortnight at Cotta and continue to do so. Similarly, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje informed the meeting that he too, on his offer to do so, had gone over to preach at some of the schools in Negombo on several occasions with the consent of the Governor, and with God’s blessings awaited the fruits of the same in due course. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz proposed, and the meeting having further considered the same, namely: that since the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje had now done some visits to Negombo Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 155 and the Rev. Philipsz had done so at Cotta once a fortnight to preach the Word of God to the congregations but also to provide for a definite and convenient plan of visits to all the, outposts, that they continue to do so, namely: the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje at Negombo and. Dandagamuwa and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz at Cotta and Nagamuwa and also administer Holy Communion at these places and that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz continues to do the same at Kalutara and Panadura, it was accordingly unanimously resolved to report the same together with an extract of these proceedings to the Government and await their decision thereon. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in the Land Surveyor Mr. Baltus van Lier, who submitted a request to the meeting against the conduct of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, whereupon the meeting., by a majority of vote, decided to request the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in writing to entrust (lit: transfer) his turn of forthcoming house visits to another brother Predikant , as this matter would have to be brought up against His Reverence at the next Censura Morum meeting; and for this purpose, it was resolved to request His Reverence’ through the Sexton to attend the next Censura Morum meeting without fail. Finally, Joanis Treseida and Adriana Perera requested that their Roman Catholic baptisms be recognised, and as they furnished satisfactory proof to the meeting, it was resolved to have their names registered in the native baptism register according to the normal procedure. Whereafter, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elder: Wm. Visser; and deacons: J.E. Jongbloed and L. Perera.

Censura Morum meeting on 2nd July 1766 (p. 220)

Absent: The Rev. Mr. H. Silvius (who came in after prayer time and was penalised with the usual fine) and the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; but before proceeding to do so the unsigned minutes of the previous meeting were read, approved and signed, and a letter was tabled addressed by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to the Scriba in reply to the request made through the Sexton that His Reverence be present at this Censura Morum according to the decision at the last meeting, informing this Consistory that His Reverence would not be able to attend the meeting on this occasion too. Hereupon, the recently-admitted Church members were called in, and on their answering the three usual questions which were put to them, they were dismissed and their names were duly noted for registration. Further, the bretheren who had done the house visits, said that they had nothing to report, except that the Rev. Mr. Silvius tabled one ’attestatie’, and the Scriba , who, at the request of the President pro tem [ pore ]. (Mr. Bronsveld) had done his visits with brother Jongbloed, tabled three ’ attestaties ’, which, on being found to be in order, were accepted for registration. They also reported that the Land Surveyor Mr. B. van Lier had informed them during their house visit that he and his wife, for reasons unknown, had been told that they should abstain from the Lord’s Table on this occasion. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports against the conduct of any of the present or absent members of the Consistory were received, except in respect of the Rev. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 156

Mr. Silvius mentioned at the last Censura Morum meeting, regarding which His Reverence, on being asked to report, replied to the meeting that he had since lived in such peace and friendship with his wife that he daily remained with her at home etc., which the meeting was pleased to hear. Further, as the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, by his absence again on this occasion, has deprived us of the opportunity of enquiring from him, according to the decision at the last meeting regarding the order made in his case, but as we have come to know that if he is at present guilty (i.e. culpable) thereof, he would not preach at the next service of Holy Communion too in order not to give occasion for scandal, the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Raket were therefore requested to meet the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld casually and mention the matter to him and ask him what he had to say about it, and to inform the President of the result of their enquiries in order that he may be dealt with according to the circumstance, especially as he has just relinquished office us President of this Consistory. The service of Holy Communion at the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser and the deacons Messrs. Jongbloed and Perera; and that in the Wolvendaal Church to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Holst and the deacons Messre. Hertenberg and Raket; and that the Leper Asylum to the Rev. Mr. Silvius with the elder Mr. Visser. Those who had requests to make ware then called in, and there came in ... requesting that her Roman Catholic baptism be accepted, which was granted. There being no other business, the meeting terminated in goodwill and peace.

On resumption on the 7th of July 1766 (p. 220)

Absent : Deacons: N. Marthynsz and E. Raket. The President having on the 7th instant summoned the other bretheren at the request of the bretheren who were commissioned to enquire into the case of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, after first invoking God’s holy name, the bretheren Commissioners reported orally to the meeting what they had submitted in writing to the President, namely: that the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld had told them that he was guilty (i.e. culpable) in the essential details of the conduct which had been attributed to him in the abovementioned requisition (and. that the Rev. Mr. Silvius had therefore, with the consent of Mr. Bronsveld, taken over the latter’s preaching turn on the day of the next service of Holy Communion in the morning), which Mr. Bronsveld too corroborated and reported with regret that this had happened quits thoughtlessly on his part, declaring at the same time that His Reverence had also searched and examined his heart on this occasion and bowed himself before God’s gracious Throne in penitence and remorse over his foolishness and sought forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ. Wherefore, His Reverence also requested the meeting to forgive him on this occasion too, assuring the meeting that he would hereafter, with the grace of God, endeavour to guard against these and other vexatious actions and conduct himself properly as a Minister and a true Christian. Hereupon, His Reverence having been asked to allow the meeting the liberty of making their decision, and the matter and the assurance given by him having been taken into consideration, it was unanimously resolved to forgive His Reverence on this occasion too, with an earnest recommendation and request that he would hereafter, with God’s grace, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 157 conduct himself in an unoffensive and irreproaphable manner towards the congregation and especially towards this Consistory, on the condition that His Reverence would give due satisfaction (i.e. apologise) to all the offended parties, and particularly to the land surveyor Mr. Van Lier, in the presence of two bretheren of this Consistory, for which purpose the meeting nominated the Scriba and brother Holst: which His Reverence readily agreed to do. Further, on the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, it was resolved to check the Church records reposited in the Consistory in the presence of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the brother deacons Messrs. Perera and Franchimont, as thieves had entered into the place (i.e. the building). The President also reported that at Negombo, Mrs. Hooyer, who was a member of the Church, had gone over to the Roman Catholic religion and obstinately persisted therein, and asked what action should be taken in the matter; whereupon the meeting resolved to ask the President to speak to her again on the occasion of his next visit, and to admonish and persuade her to come back to our Church. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; and the deacons: J.E. Jorgbloed, L. Perera, G.C. Franchimont, J. Hertenberg and E. Raket.

Extraordinary meeting of 5th August 1766 (p. 222)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. Silvius (indisposed), the Rev. J.J. Fybrands and elder Wm. Visser (on school visits), and deacon Mr. Marthynsz. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of some letters and extracts which he had received. The Political Commissaris was then asked whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government, and he answered in the negative. The President then tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council, which read as follows:- Extract of an resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 10th of July 1766 . ”Having observed from an extract of the proceedings of the, Venerable Consistory of this City that Their Reverences, in order to help in extending the preaching of God’s Word among the native congregations at Negombo, Dandagamuwa, Cotta, Nagamuwa, Kalutara and Panadura, and also the administration of Holy Communion to the Church members at these places, had decided that the native (i.e. Ceylonese) Predikants Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz should not only continue to preach as before, namely: the former in Tamil once a fortnight at Negombo and the latter in Sinhalese at Cotta, but also administer the lord’s Supper, namely: the former at Negombo and Dandagamuwa and the latter at Cotta and Nagamuwa, so that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who previously ministered to all six congregations, would now administer Holy. Communion only at Kalutara and at Panadura; it was accordingly hereby decided to wholeheartedly approve of these valuable proposals of Their Reverences. (Below): Certified by: Js. Reintous, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” Which having been read out, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje remarked that he would not be able conveniently to proceed once a fortnight to preach the Word of God at Negombo for the reasons mentioned by him, after consideration of which the meeting resolved to make the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 158

following note (i.e. minute) in this connection: namely, that His Reverence should be able to proceed there as often as it is possible or at least once a month. Hereafter, the letters having been opened and read, it was found that one was from the Deputies of the respective Classes of Delft, Delfsland and Schieland dated at Schiedam on the 18th of September 1765 containing the Synodal Acts; the second, which came under cover of the first, was from the Deputies of South Holland, dated at the Hague the 17th of September 1765; and the third letter was found to be from the Classis of Amsterdam, dated the 7th of October 1765, containing the Synodal Acts of North Holland; and it was resolved to file all these letters of record to be answered in due course, and meanwhile the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje undertook to see that the requisition in the first of these letters regarding instruction at the Seminary is complied with. Yet another letter was opened and was found to be from the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of Kalpitiya Mr. J.C. Meyer, with a request addressed to this Consistory containing a petition that, if it were convenient and possible, the Consistory arrange to obtain for him his release from that station since he finds it most burdensome to be away so long separated from his wife and children whom he has had to leave at this place owing to his debts, besides his eldest son whom he has taken with him in the hope that whenever a vacancy for a ’ Krankbezoeker ’ or schoolmaster occurs in Colombo he may be able to obtain (i.e. be appointed to) the same, but that there is no opportunity of doing so here, and besides, that it is not possible for hi3 wife to settle his debts alone by herself in order thus to be able to come over to him, and that if it is not possible far him to obtain his release from there, then he requests his Consistory to intercede with His Excellency on his behalf to be allowed a holiday to enable him to settle his affairs at this place and return with his wife and children. Whereupon, the meeting was of the opinion that there was no need for him to go about things in a round-about way (i.e. in a circuitous manner), but that he should address his request direct to the Chief Officer there in order that it may be considered by our Government on behalf of the Company, and obtain a favourable order thereby, and the Scriba was directed to reply to him accordingly briefly in writing. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he. had administered Holy Communion last month at the Leper Asylum, and that a woman, who is a member of the Church, had requested His Reverence to baptise a little girl who was also smitten with the disease, on her saying certain prayers and answering some simple questions which the former had taught the latter, pronrising further that she will not neglect to bring up (i.e. educate) the child further in the Reformed Faith, but that as the person presented for baptism was only about 9 years of age, His Reverence had postponed (i.e. put off) the game in order to consult this venerable Assembly in the matter: which requested was duly considered by this, meeting and allowed, after due investigations are first made by the President from some of the Christians as to whether she has not perhaps been baptised as a Roman Catholic. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elder G.E. Holst; and deacon L. Perera. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 159

Ordinary meeting of 22nd September 1766 (p. 224)

Absent: The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; Deacons: E. Raket and Ns. Marthynsz (both of them on official duties) and J.E. Jonsbloed (sick). The meeting having begun with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make the necessary arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the negative, haying replied in the negative, it was resolved in regard to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld (who made excuse for his absence during prayer time that he had been ill since yesterday) to excuse him on this occasion; whereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Holst. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Visser. The 3rd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the deacon Mr. Perera. After which, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta but not at Nagamuwa on account of his heavy preaching duties which intervened; and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje too reported, regarding the case of the little girl at the Leper Asylum mentioned in the proceedings of the last meeting, that there was no evidence that the child has ever been baptised either by us or in the Roman Catholic Church, wherefore the brother who was to administer Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum on the next occasion was authorised to baptise her. Adrianus van Meerden, ’ Krankbezoeker ’ on the ship ”Noord Beverland”, then came in and presented his Church credentials and was so recognised. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; and the elder G.E. Holst.

Censura Morum held on 1st October 1766 (p. 225)

Absent: The Rev. W.T. Ondaatje (indisposed); Elder J.B. Raket (indisposed), and Deacon Ms. Marthynsz (on official duty). The meeting having opened with prayer, and the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting having been read and signed, the President said that t his meeting was Specially convened to hold the usual Censura Morum: but before proceeding thereto, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and brother Holst reported that the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld had fulfilled the commission entrusted, to him at the previous Censura Morum in their presence (i.e. the checking of the Consistory records); and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz too reported that in fulfilment of the commission entrusted to, him at the last Censura Morum meeting, he had made enquiries from Mrs. Silvius, but no denial or compliant was made by her; and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he had duly verified the Church books in the cupboards of the Rev. Mr. Silvius and had found everything to be in order; and finally the bretheren who had done the house visits reported that they had duly completed their house visits and that they had nothing special to report. The recently admitted Church members then came in and answered the three question, and they were dismissed by the President with his blessings. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 160

Thereafter, proceeding to the Censura Morum over the absent and present members of the Consistory as well as the members of the congregation, through the grace of God and to the joy of everyone no adverse reports were received. The services of Holy Communion were then arranged for as follows:- In the Church in the Castle (Fort) - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the brother elders Holst and Visser and the brother deacons Marthynsz and Franchimont. The preparatory house visits of the native congregation of the outer (i.e. Wolvendaal) Church were to be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz, and the service of Holy Communion there by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the brother elders Holst and Visser and, the deacons Messrs. Jongbloed and Perera. The service at the Leper Asylum on this occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elder Mr. Holst. While the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz said that he had administered Holy Communion at the following places: namely, at Kalutara, Panadura, Negombo and Dandagamuwa. Hereafter, there came in: firstly one Paulus Menke Junior, requesting that he be. examined for appointment to the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’: which, was allowed provided he appeared further at the next meeting, so that enquiries may be made in the meanwhile regarding his conduct and behaviour. Finally, those who had requests to make came in, and one Xaveria requested that her Roman Catholic baptism be recognised by us on her furnishing satisfactory proofs, which was allowed on the condition that she becomes a member of our congregation and marries in our Church, which she agreed to do. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Silvius ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld; Elders: G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; and Deacons: B. Jongbloed, L. Perera, G.C. Franchimont, I. Hertenberg and E. Raket.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 7th of October 1766 (p. 227)

Absent : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld and J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.B. Raket G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; Deacons: J.E. Jongbloed (sick) and Ns. Marthynsz. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened especially in view of an extract of a Political Council resolution and a letter which he had received (n.b. these are not reproduced in the minutes), the former of which was noted with joy and gratitude, and the latter was opened and read; and it was resolved to file them of record and for reply in due course. Thereafter, there came in Mr. Menke Junior, requesting that he may be examined for appointment as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ in the Company’s service, then the reports of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the other bretheren were redeived, and his request was refused on this occasion and he was reprimanded and advised to conduct himself better, but he was told that he could apply again later when he was in a position to furnish proof of better conduct and behaviour, Roeloff Torkels then came in, and the Scriba said that he had applied to him on several occasions for an extract from the baptism register of his son’s baptism, but that he (the Scriba ) had not been able to trace a record of either his or his son’s baptism in the baptism registers; then, several of the Ministers of this Consistory remarked that they were Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 161 aware that his son had been baptised and that he need not furnish further proof of the same, and the Scriba was authorised to issue him a certicate accordingly. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : the Revs. H. Philipsz (President) H. Silvius ( Scriba ) and W.J. Ondaatje.

Extraordinary meeting of 3rd November 1766 (p. 228)

Absent : The Revs. H. Silvius and S.A. Bronsveld; Elders G.E. Holst and Vm. Visser; and deacon Ms. Marthynsz. The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened on account of an extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received. Hereafter, the Political Commissioner who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the said extract (n.b. not reproduced in these minutes) was read and not for due compliance. The meeting then discussed as to who should prepare the annual Church reports for this year to the Fatherland and what (matters should tar mentioned in them, and it was resolved that they should contain a report on the state and condition of the churches and the schools in this Island, together with replies to the inward letters as usual, and the task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, it being his turn to do so. Hereafter, one Anna Maria came in, and having presented valid proofs of her Roman Catholic baptism requested that the same be recognised by this Consistory, and her requested was granted. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje and the Deacon: J.E. Jongbloed.

Extraordinary meeting of 27th November 1766 (p. 229)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: Wm. Visser; Deacons: N. Marthynsz (indis- posed) and E. Raletand L. Perera (both on official duties). The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was convened at the request of the Scriba . The Political Commissaris was then asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, and he answered in the negative. The Scriba then said that he had personally come to know and was therefore in a po- sition to be able to prove that the Commissioners for Marriage Causes have taken upon themselves the right to make decisions as to the validity or otherwise of foreign (i.e. alien) baptism certificates, and accept or reject them at their own will and pleasare without any consideration whatever to the fact that this is a matter for the decision of this Consistory, thereby contravening not only the old and established practice but also the Church Orders which have from times past been prescribed and issued by Their Excellencies the States General of the United Netherlands and also the Supreme Government of these lands, that Church (i.e. religions) matters should be decided (lit: handled) by the Church authorities; and since the Scriba felt that he should protest against (lit: oppose) this on the authority of the Church and on the grounds of good order and discipline, so he considered that, in order Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 162 to check such abuses in the future, it was high time that we respectfully draw the attention of the Supreme Government to the same and request their orders thereon, with an extract of these proceedings. The opinions of the bretheren in the matter were then, solicited and they agreed with the proposal, which was duly recorded as a resolution of this meeting. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje and the Elder G.E. Holst.

Ordinary meeting of 29th November 1766 (p. 230)

Absent: Elders: B.J. Raket and P. Blankert (both indisposed), Wm. Visser (excused); Deacons; L. Perera and. N. Marthynsz (on official duties) and J.E. Jongbloed (excused). The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion, and meanwhile, the Political Commissaris said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, and the President then tabled the following extract:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 11th of November 1766 . ”Finally, on a letter received from the Chief of Negombo Mr. Jan Scheerken regarding the marriage solemnities (i.e. rites) of Roman Catholics, it was resolved and decided that these should conform to the earlier resolution of this Council of the 31st of July 1762, namely: that those of that Faith who wished to marry should first appear before the Church Consistory and furnish the Consistory with proof that they had been baptised, for which purpose a testimonial in writing from a Roman Catholic priest and two witnesses shall be accepted as being sufficient, and the usual-baptism certificate shall then be issued to them, and that the following marriage fees shall in future be paid both at Negombo and at Kalutara:- To the Commissioners - 24 stivers. To the authorised officer - 24 stivers. To the interpreter - 6 stivers. The payments made elsewhere to the Sextons and Messengers and for stamp duties being waived. (Certified by: Js. Reintous, provisional 1st sworn clerk).” This was duly noted for information. Hereafter, the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld respectively; and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled the annual Church reports which he had prepared for despatch to Holland and Batavia which were read and approved and sealed and handed over to the President for submission to His Excellency the Governor. Proceeding then to the normal business, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Visser. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Holst. The old City (i.e. Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the deacon Mr. Jongbloed. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld then reported that he had administered Holy Communion with the deacon Mr. Jongbloed at the Leper Asylum in the month of October and administered baptism there to a little girl belonging to the burgher Christiaan Dirks, on his answering some questions and reciting some prayers according to the decision of the Consistory; and the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 163

Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz, Ondaatje and Philipsz too reported that they had duly ministered at the outposts entrusted to them. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje produced an extract from the Jaffna marriage register and a Church ’attestatie’, both in respect of his sister, which was recognised and accepted for due registration. He also said that at Negombo he had nominated the Chief Officer of that fortress Mr. Jan Scheerken as an elder and the Ensign there Mr. Meyer as a deacon: which was noted for information. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God, Signed : The Revs. H. Silvius (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: G.E. Holst and Wm. Visser; and Deacons: Ms. Marthynsz and L. Perera.

Extraordinary meeting of 13th January 1767 (p. 232)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz, Elder P. Blankert and Deacon E. Jongbloed. After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris’ who was asked whether he had anything to report, on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of the expiry of the terms of office of the brother elders and deacons, and since all these bretheren had on this occasion expressed their desire to be released, so the meeting proceeded to nominate and elect new elders and deacons, and in place of Messrs. Raket, Blankert, Holst and Visser, the following were elected as Elders out of a double panel of nominations by a majority of votes, namely: the Auditor Gerlachus Rosier, the Captain of the Burgery Jurgen Hendrik Schols, the Second Warehousekeeper Dirk Potken and the Overseer of the Iron Stores Johannes de Vos; and likewise, in place of the deacons Messrs. Jongbloed, Perera, Marthynsz, Franchimont, Hartenberg and E. Raket, the following were elected as Deacons of this City out of a similar double panel of nominations, namely: the bookkeeper Jan Jacob Kwalenbring, the Lieut of the Burgery Jan Lachom, the Ensign of the Burgery Johannes van den Broek, the sworn clerk of the Secretariat of Justice Justinus Kriekenbeek and the bookkeepers Frederik Bernhard Giffenig and Dominicue Ide; and it was resolved to report the same to the Government together with an extract of these proceedings for their authority to proclaim and confirm the newly-elected bretheren in their offices. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Silvius (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ); Elders: G.E. Holst and Win. Visser; and the deacon L. Perera.

Censura Morum of 7th January 1767 (p. 233)

Absent: The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (indisposed), H. Philipsz; and the elders Messrs. B.J. Raket and P. Blankert. After invoking Gad’s holy name, the Political Commissaris informed the meeting on be- half of His Excellency the Governor that His Excellency had been pleased to grant permission for a service of Holy Communion to be held here conducted by the English Missionary of the Lutheran brotherhood on the 18th instant in the Church in the Castle (Fort) at the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 164

end of the Reformed Church service on that morning, after a preparatory service in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) on the 15th instant, and that he wished to have the opinions (lit: advice) of this Consistory in this connection; whereupon it was unanimously resolved to wholeheartedly (lit. thankfully) approve of (lit: laud) the same as being wholly conducive to the maintenance of a spirit of true brotherhood. The Political Commissaris having then been excused from the meeting, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum before the service of Holy Communion. The minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting having then been read and approved and signed, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except that the President had admitted Mr. van Buuren and Mesdames ... and Myntyns as guests at the Lord’s Table. The newly-admitted Church members who answered the three usual questions were then dismissed with the blessings of the Session, an ’attestatie’ presented was accepted for due announcement and registration, and the Corporals Zacharias Swisse and Johan Theodoris Primagen, and also the soldiers Johan Hendrik Diepmer and Johan Strempel and Jacob Gay were admitted as guests at Holy Communion, on their promise to undergo a simple test on the next occasion, except the lastnamed person who had made his confession of faith at Jaffna. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the Church congregation, except that it was observed (i.e. remarked) that many of the Church members habitually ignore the visits of the Predikants and brother elders without known reasons, whereby they are not in a position to get to know the congregation well for the double celebration of Holy Communion both in the inner as well as in the outer Churches; and it was therefore resolved, with the foreknowledge and approval of His Excellency our Governor to notify the congregation at the threefold announcements at the forthcoming service of Holy Communion that those who without reason avoid (lit: withdraw from or dodge) these salutary house visits shall not be admitted to Holy Communion on that occasion. Further, the service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser and the deacons Messrs. Jongbloed and Perera; the service at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Visser, and the preparatory house visits in the outer city (Pettah) was entrusted to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz, and the service of Holy Communion in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the abovementioned elders and the deacons Messrs. Franchimont and Marthynsz. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had not only admonished Mrs. Hooyer of Negombo on several occasions though fruitlessly, but had also to his regret come to know that she was preparing to greet him with assault (lit: with swords) at the house visit; therefore, in view of the deliberate (lit: open) obstinacy of this lady, the meeting resolved to excommunicate her in the name of the Lord by pulpit announcement both here in Colombo as well as at Negombo. There being no other business the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld ( Scriba ) and Ondaatje. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 165

Extraordinary meeting of 16th February 1767 (p. 234)

Absent : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (indisposed), S.A. Bronsveld (on circuit), W.J. On- daatje (at Negombo), H. Philipsz (indisposed); Elder; J.B. Raket (on official duties), P. Blankert (indisposed); Deacons: L. Perera and N. Marthynsz (on official duties). The meeting having commenced with prayer, the President said that it was specially convened in view of an extract of a Political Council resolution which was dated 17th January but was received by him only on the 12th of February. Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the said extract was read out, and was found to refer to two of our matters: the first, approving the confirmation of the newly-elected brother elders and deacons, except that of the Assistant Merchant Dirk Joan Potken, and the second, intimating that His Excellency had entrusted the Church and school visits this year to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld: both of which were noted for due compliance, and the Lieut. Jan Lachom, who was recently elected as a Deacon, was accordingly immediately elected as an Elder by a majority of 3 votes to 1 in the place of Mr. Dirk Joan Potken who had been excused, and the Army Lieut. Julius Johan Belise was also elected as a Deacon in his (Mr. Lachom’s) place, and it was resolved to report the same with an extract of these proceedings to the Government for their approval. On the proposal of the President, it was also resolved to withhold the decision taken in the resolution of the 27th of November last year concerning the complaint against the Commissioners of Marriage Causes in regard to their recognition (i.e. acceptance) of alien baptism certificates, as the President said that he had understood from His, Excellency the Governor that the Political Council would shortly be waking some changes (i.e. alterations) in regard to the same, and therefore the commission entrusted to the President and the brother elder van der Holst in the resolution of the 5th of this month was likewise accordingly postponed and suspended. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. H. Silvius (President and pro tem [ pore ] Scriba ), Elders: G.E. Holst and Wn. Visser.

Extraordinary meeting of 2nd March 1767 (p. 235)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (on duty); Elder; P. Blankert; and Deacons: J.B. Jongbloed; (indisposed), L. Perera and N. Marthynsz (both on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf, of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened solely on account of an extract from the Political Council, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 17th of February 1767. ”It was further decided to amend the resolution of the 11th of November last year regarding the baptism and marriage of Roman Catholics as follows: That the proof of baptism shall be. a written testimonial signed by the Roman Catholic priest only to the effect that the said person was truly baptised, and that such document shall be presented, not before the full Consistory, but to the President or the Scriba in office, who shall then, in the first instance, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 166 validate the same by confirming thereunder that he has seen the same and noting the names in order to report the same at the next meeting of the Consistory; and it was at the same time also resolved to authorise the Predikant who administers Holy Communion at the time at Negombo to validate (i.e. accept) baptism certificates which may be presented to him at Negombo. Certified by: J. Reintous, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” This was noted for due compliance, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; and the elders Messrs. Holst and Visser.

Ordinary meeting of 6th April 1767 (p. 236)

Absent: The Political Commissaris, the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (on circuit); Elders: B.J. Raket (on official duty), P. Blankert (indisposed); and Deacons: J.E. Jongbloed (indisposed), N. Marthynsz (deceased) and L. Perera (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened partly to thank the retiring brother elders and deacons and. to introduce the newly installed bretheren, and partly to make arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Commu- nion. Whereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fy- brandsz and Ondaatje respectively, and the outgoing brother elders and deacons were heartily thanked for their vaulable and faithful services and led out of the meeting with the blessings of the Session, and the newly-installed bretheren were wished God’s blessings on their re- sponsible tasks and introduced to the Session. Thereupon the President tabled the, following extract:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 10th March 1767. ”An extract, of a resolution of the Church Consistory of the 16th of February last was also approved, whereby the Lieutenant of the Burgery Jan Lachom was elected as an elder in place of the Junior Merchant and 2nd Warehousekeeper Dirk Joan Potken, and the Ensign Julius Johannes Bellisse was elected as a Deacon in place of Mr. Lachom. (Below): Certified by: Jojannes Reintous, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” Which having already been put into effect, was duly noted for record. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows: The 1st 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The outer city (Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Mr. Lachom. The Revs. Messrs, Fybrandsz and Philipsz then reported that they had visited the out- posts entrusted, to them in the months of January and April. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius and H. Philipsa; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and Deacons: J. van den Broek, J.J. Qualenbrink and J.J. Bellise. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 167

Censura Morum of 15th April 1767 (p. 237)

Absent: The Rev. Mr. Silvius (on duty), S.A. Bronsveld; and Deacons: F.B. Giffenig and J. Kriekenbeek (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened for the usual business (i.e. the Censura Morum). The minutes, of the previous meeting of the Censura Morum not being ready, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except that they had. received an ’attestatie’ in favour of a soldier named Mr. Bunling and that Mrs. Roerborn had requested to be re-admitted to Holy Communion, the former of which was recognised by the Consistory, and the latter request was put off for further consideration. The newly-admitted Church members who had answered the three usual questions were dismissed with the blessings of the Consistory. Mrs. Koelman having requested to be re-admitted to Holy Communion her request was allowed after a stern admonition, Henrich Panonnen, who had not brought his ’attestatie’ with him expressed a desire to be admitted to Holy Communion: his request was also allowed on the condition that he undergoes a simple test by the Rev. Ondaatje. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, none of the bretheren had any reports to make against the present members of this Consistory, but as regards the absent members, the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius was brought up, whose improper conduct and public scandal everyone was of the opinion should be taken up at the next session, except the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Scholtz, who were of the opinion that he should be given six weeks’ time (i.e. notice) according to the Church practice, while the said Elder said that he could prove with two witnesses that His Reverence had conducted himself improperly with strange maids, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje demonstrated (i.e. pointed out) that though His Reverence had often, and even for the last time warned by this Consistory, he had nevertheless continued shamelessly in open sin: but the former proposal was approved by a majority of vote. The services of Holy Communion were then arranged as follows: - In the inner (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs, Scholtz and Lachom and the deacons Messrs. Bellisse and van den Broek. In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz) assisted by the same elders and deacons as mentioned above) and the preparatory house visits for the same were to be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz, with the elder Mr. De Vos and the deacon Mr. Bellisse. The service in the Leper Asylum, was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elder Mr. Scholtz. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had officiated at Negombo and Dandagamuwa, and in terms of the decision of this Consistory on the 7th of January last, that he had excused the backsliding Church member at Negombo named Nathalia Perera. Thereafter, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ) H. Philipsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and the deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink, D. Ide and J. van den Broek. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 168

Ordinary meeting of 3rd June 1767 (p. 238)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; The elder J.H. Scholtz (excused); and Deacon; J.J. Qualenbrink (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened for ordinary business as usual, whereupon the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, and there was, also tabled the notification regarding the handing over of the administration of the Poor Fund, which read as follows:- Notification. ”The congregation is hereby informed that at 9 a.m. on Wednesday next the 29th of this month, the retiring deacons will hand over to the newly elected deacons in the Church, with open doors and in the presence of Special Commissioners of the Court of Justice and the Consistory of this place, a due account and transfer of the administration and the income and expenses of the Poor Fund during their period of office, together with a proper balance sheet of their books as at the 31st of August last; therefore anyone wishing to attend (i.e. be present) at the same at the time and place aforementioned is at liberty to do so as usual. Colombo, 26th April 1767. (Below). By order of the Political Council.” Thereafter, arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and elder Lachom. The 2nd block - by Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Scholtz. The old City and its environments - by Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder J. de Vos. Further the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had ministered at the Leper Asylum with the brother elder Mr. Scholtz, and also at Kalutara and at Panadura; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had on this occasion administered Holy Communion at Cotta and that he will do so at Nagamuwa as soon as he goes over to visit the schools there. Thereafter, at the request of the President, which was acquiesced in by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, after enquiring from the bretheren whether they had any comments to make, the decision made at the last meeting of the Censura Morum that the reports made against his conduct should be brought up at the next meeting was taken up, and it was now again resolved to bring this matter to the notice of His Reverence (Mr. Silvius), which was accord- ingly done, and the unfortunate results were brought to his notice, and His Revenerence said that he would reply to these matters when his accusers are in a position to furnish proofs of the allegations made against him, and that this should be done at the next meeting of the Censura Meeting, when the other bretheren who have any knowledge of the same would also be present, and in the meantime His Reverence, on being told that he should give over his forthcoming turn of house visits to one of the other bretheren, had no objection to this. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and a lady who is a member of our Church submitted a request to this Consistory on behalf of her son Michiel Andries, stating that he had been baptised at Trincoinalee in the year 1747, and asked to be furnished with his baptism certificate, whereupon the meeting was of the opinion that he could first get his baptism certified (i.e. validated) here if he would have it proved by two trustworthy witnesses, and she was informed accordingly. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 169

Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz. ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and Deacon: J. van den Broek.

Censura Morum of 1st July 1767 (p. 239)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (indisposed); Deacons: J.J. Bellisse and J. van den Broek. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened to hold the usual Censuram Morum. Thereafter, the minutes of the two previous meetings were read and approved and, signed, and the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld only tabled an ’attestatie’ infavour of Daniel Gerard Kersse and his wife Johanna F. van Lier, who had come over here from Jaffna, which was accepted for due announcement and registration. The newly-admitted Church members, who had duly complied with the usual formalities, were dismissed with the blessings of the Session, except Guilliam Ulrig Franchimond, who could not attend owing to illness, who should attend for the usual formalities at a subsequent meeting after he recovers from his illness. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against the conduct of either the present or the absent members of this Consistory, or even in the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius mentioned in the minutes of the previous Censura Morum and ordinary meetings, except what was brought up at those meetings, which, according to the decision made at those meetings, haying been brought to His Reverence’s notice in a friendly spirit, he said that he denied (i.e. was not guilty of) the offences, except one matter which he admitted, over which the meeting felt obliged, to make the following decision, namely: that in case of a recurrence of any such offences, His Reverence be requested to suspend his functions until such time as he would convince himself at t he next meeting, and that in the meantime, the President should make special mention of this behaviour of the Rev. Mr. Silvius to His Excellency the Governor, except the brother deacons Kriekenbeek and Ide, who agreed with the latter but not with the former action. Ho adverse reports were received against any of the. other members of the Church, except that, on the proposal of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, it was resolved to inform the wife of Mr. Ebert, who had come over here from Tutucorin, through the Sexton, that she should abstain from. Holy Communion on this occasion on account of suspicions regarding her improper behaviour. It was similarly resolved that Kornelia van Ham, who for some time now has had to abstain from the Lord’s Table, should be spoken to and admonished by the brother elders. The services of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in place of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elder Messrs. Lachom and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Quaalenbrink and Kriekenbeek; and that in the Wolvendaal Church by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the abovementioned elders and deacons, after the preparatory house visits of the native congregation, which was to be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz with the brothers Lachom and Bellisse. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; Elders: J. Lachom, J. de Vos, and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Quaalenbrink and D. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 170

Ide. Extraordinary meeting of 7th July 1767 (p. 240) Absent: The Rev. H. Silvius; and the Deacons: J.J. Bellisse, J. van den Broek and F.B. Giffenig (all three of them indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened at the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and also in view of a letter addressed to this Consistory; but before proceeding further, the President asked the Political Commissaris whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government and he answered in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read, approved and signed. Hereafter, the letter being opened and read, it was found to be from the Deputies of the Venerable Classis of Delft, Delfsland and Schieland, dated at Delft the 17th of September 1766, forwarding the Synodal Acts held at Leyden that year, which was noted for record and necessary action as usual, and it was resolved that when answering their letter it should be mentioned that we did not wish to burden (lit: hinder or delay) the correspondence with the troubles of the war, and we therefore did not have occasion to write to the relevant Classes. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had spoken to the Superintendent of. the bookbinders Mr. Keegel regarding his putting off and neglecting the baptism of his children, and that he replied that he had attended at the Church here with his children to have them baptised but the Rev. Mr. Sezilles, who. was the preacher on that day, had flatly refused to do so, and for this reason he had neglected to do so up to now, which he himself was present and confirmed: whereupon, this meeting urged him to have them baptised, which he promised to do. Thereafter, the members having been asked for their opinions on the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, at whose request this meeting was specially convened, namely: what the bretheren thought about His Reverence’s absence, since he himself had requested the President to postpone taking action on the resolution of this Consistory at its previous meeting and to take it up at a subsequent meeting, promising that he would satisfactorily answer (i.e. explain) the allegations that had been made against him, but now makes his excuse through the sexton saying that he had been suddenly taken ill; and considering that the Rev. Mr. Silvius had previously been admonished on several occasions by this Consistory in a Christian and brotherly manner over his unbecoming and. immodest conduct and behaviour, but had shown no improvement at all notwithstanding that His Reverence had promised and given an assurance, but also that he had now for some time openly indulged in acts of public scandal and not only behaved himself in a manner that is unbecoming of a Minister of the Gospel of Christ before the entire congregation, but also, regardless of all the trouble that we have taken and the earnest admonitions at the last ordinary meeting as well as at the meetings of the Censura Morum in case it was possible to make him live more decently and conduct himself better, has nevertheless continued with indifference in the same, the meeting, having finally unanimously felt obliged to take appropriate action in the matter, made the following decision; namely, that in order to avoid any further scandal and embarrassment, His Reverence be disqualified (i.e. suspended) from officiating publicly in all aspects of his office, until such time as satisfactory redress is made to this Consistory according to Church discipline; and it was resolved at the same time to respectfully report the same to the Government together with an extract of these proceedings, and to await their orders on the same. The Ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 171

Mr. Bronsveld and the brother elder Mr. Lachom. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld reported that he had, subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor, nominated the Second Officer at Kalpitiya Mr. Johannes Bras as an elder at that place: this was duly noted. At His Reverence’s request, it was also decided that the Church records in his custody in the repository of the Consistory be handed over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz in view of the expiry of his term of custodianship. Finally, there came in certain persons of French descent who had come over to us some time ago from Kandy named Don Samuel, Don Tsaak and Don David, who informed this Consistory that originally a French Ambassador named Don La Neroldoe Loewis, and there- after named Fidalgo, and finally the son of the Ambassador Loewis and his son Don Samuel (father of the above named Don Samual) had successively baptised their children as the. Ambassador, with the permission and approval of the others who had come over with him in former times and settled down in Kandy, had followed the Christian Reformed Religion and was regarded and acknowledged as their Minister, and that thereafter that duty (lit: work) was entrusted to others from time to time, since they did not wish to betake themselves to the Roman Catholic priests who were then residing (lit: to be found) there, and that thus, the abovementioned three perseons, who confessed the Reformed Faith, which was noticeable from the ’Our Father’, the ’Ten Commandments of God’, the ’Twelve articles of Faith’ and some prayers which they knew by heart, and who had also been baptised with the sprin- kling of water along with their relations and their children, and they therefore requested this Consistory to recognise them as baptised persons, which was allowed to them after due deliberation provided that they and all their people, as many of them as were resident here, would respond (lit: say ’amen’) to the questions in the formulary of baptism on the occasion whan the youngest son of the abovementioned Don Samuel is baptised. Thereafter, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Lachom and G.H. Scholtz; and the deacons: Messrs, D .Ide and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary Joint (i.e. combined) meeting held on 23rd July 1767 (p. 242)

Absent : The Revs. Messrs. Bronsveld and Philipsz, Elder J. de Vos; and the Deacons Messrs, J. Bellisse and Kriekenbeek (all of them on account of illness). After invoking God’s holy name the President said that this meeting was convened at the rewuest of the Rev. Mr. H. Silvius. The Rev. Mr. Silvius, having expressed his sincere regrets to this Consistory regarding the inconvenience (lit: annoyances) which he had caused to the congregation beggee to be relieved from the suspension recently imposed on him, promising most earnestly that from now on, with the grace of God, he will take care not to cause even the slightest scandal in his conduct as a respectable (i.e. good) Minister of the Gospel, and further, that he submitted to the brotherly admonition of this Consistory to give them full satisfaction, namely: by publickly preaching a penetential homily (i.e. sermon) to all; those whom he had offended and especially to the entire congregation to their satisfaction; and therefore this Consistory felt disposed to avoid the carrying out of the decision made at its last meeting regarding His Reverence by altering the same for the present, in the hope that for the last time, in a Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 172 spirit of Christian duty and forbearance, they could look forward to the desired results (lit: fruits), and with earnest supplication in respect of the same to the Almighty God that He would grant him (i.e. the Rev. Mr. Silvius) His blessing and uphold him and maintain him in good favour with the congregation in joy and peace with each other; and it was resolved to inform the Government of the same with an extract of these proceedings and solicit the favour of their approval. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz being due to leave on his visit to the countryside (i.e. the interior), the office of Scriba was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje, H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: Messrs. G.H. Scholtz and J. Lachom; and the Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Qualenbrink and J. van den Broek.

Ordinary meeting held on 21st September 1767 (p. 243)

Absent: The Revs. Messrs. Silvius, Bronevsled and Philipsz; Elder: J. de Vos; and the Deacons: Messrs. van den Broek (all on grounds of illness or official duties). The meeting having been opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris was then asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he reported in the negative. It was then observed firstly, that the minutes of the previous meeting had already been signed, and that the Rev. Messrs. Silvius and Bronsveld, who were due to take over the offices of President and Scriba respectively at this meeting, were both absent, wherefore it was resolved that these duties be performed for today by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Proceeding then to the business for the day, the following arrangements were made for the house visits etc: - The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Vos. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Lachom. The Roman Catholic baptism of Suxanna Fernando (whose witnesses were her parents named Joan Fernando and Martha Dias and Simon Rodrigo Tiruwampalem and Andre Kardoes) was accepted (i.e. respected), and also the baptism at our Church at Jaffna of Joan Suppremanien and Philip Zinnettamby, on the evidence of Ulagegawele Mudaliyar and Philip Zambunaden and the Vidana of the brassfounders. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje (President and Scriba pro tem [ pore ]) and J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders; Messrs G.H. Scholtz and J. Lachom; and the Deacon Mr. J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum of 1st October 1767 (p. 224)

Absent: The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; and the Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Qualenbrink, J. van den Broek, J. Kriekenbeek and J.J. Bellisse. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 173

The meeting having opened with prayer, and. the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting, having been read and signed, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on the recent house visits. Hereafter, the newly-admitted Church members having been called in and dismissed after they had answered to the three usual questions, the meeting proceeded to the Censura Morum, at which the behaviour of the Rev. Mr. Silvius was brought up, namely: that His Reverence, since his recent promise made publicly had not conducted himself accordingly; and the Rev. Mr. Silvius, on being confronted with the charges made against him, declared that he could not really deny the same, but on the contrary, confessed that he was distressed and ashamed about the recent incident, and being thoroughly ashamed of the same had indulged once again in excessive drunkenness and had therefore not kept to his promise in all respects, but that he however hoped (i.e. trusted) that since he deeply regretted his offences and was always trying to do his best to avoid them with the grace of God, that the meeting would accommodate him on this occasion too ,and forgive him for the same; after considering which, it was decided by a majority of vote to forgive him on this occasion, except the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz, who were of the opinion that since the Rev. Mr. Silvius had in ho way kept the promise made by him three months ago, he should therefore be dealt with according to the decision” then made, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Scholtz further requested, that in case the decision made regarding Mr. Silvius was not carried out, that thay may be excused from attending the meetings of this Consistory, as they did not feel inclined to sit along with the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and also that meanwhile an extract of these proceedings may be forwarded to the Government; which request, being contrary to the practice of t his Consistory was rejected (i.e. diaallowed), but their request that an extract of these proceedings be sent to the Government was allowed. Further, no adverse reports having been made against any of the present or absent mem- bers, it was decided that the service of Holy Communion in the inner (i.e. the Fort) Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Giffenig and Ide. The preparatory house visits of the outer City were entrusted to the Rev Messrs. Ondaabj and Philipsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Lachom and de Vos and the service of Holy Commnion there was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren allotted for the service in the inner (Fort) Church. The administration at the outposts was entrusted to the Rev. Mesrs. Fybrandsz, Ondaatje and Philipsz, and that at the Leper Asylum to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elder Mr. de Vos. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje further informed the meeting that His Excellency the Governor had entrusted the ministry at Chilaw too to him; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and Deacon: D. Ide. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 174

Extraordinary Joint (i.e. Combined) meeting held on 1st December 1767 (p. 246)

The meeting commenced with prayer by the Scriba (the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld) who took it upon himself to say (lit: who said in defence of the action now taken by him), although some of the members of this Consistory may perhaps consider it to be irregular (lit: strange), that he, the Scriba , has assumed the function of the President and summoned this venerable Assembly; however, the Reverend bretheren who had assembled in the Church here yesterday, he said, were well aware of the totally hilarious (lit: peculiar) and intemperate behaviour of the Reverend President Mr. Silvius, namely: how His Reverence, at 4.30 p.m. on the afternoon of the 30th of November, had told this Consistory not only that the Honourable Political Commaris and the members of the Consistory who had gathered there had uselessly wasted a good deal of their time, but act had also come personally along the entire highway and openly and publicly held one of the Ministers of God’s beloved congregation altogether indecently to ridicule through excessive drunkenness, to the chagrin of both heathens and Christians and brought shame (lit: caused damage) and disgrace to God’s holy congregation, whereby he has not only both openly and secretly disregarded (i.e. defied) all, the continued, alas fruitless, warnings and admonition from God’s commandments which we have hitherto given him, and also shamefully ignored his promise made to this Consistory and especially before the entire congregation, as mentioned in the previous resolutions of this Consistory, but also especially exposed God’s dear congregation by making them a prey of the Roman Catholics, heathens and Mohammedans, as a result of which this little (i.e. simple) flock of Christ hold themselves in concealment (i.e. in shame) or disgrace, to the slander (i.e. blasphemy) of God’s holy name, and that it could thereby cause opposition to (i.e. resistance of) the progress of Christ’s Kingdom against the aims of this Consistory, and should therefore be exposed; and that he (the Scriba ) therefore, in order to absolve (lit: reconcile or atone for) the reverend bretheren in this arrogant act of licentiousness now hopes for (lit: awaits or solicits) a definite decision by this meeting in this case for the satisfaction of the conscience and good name of this venerable Assembly in these circumstances. Whereupon, none of the members having anything to say against the Scriba ’s comments, the Scriba , acting as President, asked the Political Commissaris whether he had any comments to make in this connection on behalf of the Government, and the Political Com- missaris replied that he had already informed the Government of the Rev. Mr. Silvius’s bad behaviour and that he was directed by the Government to instruct (lit: order) this Consistory, owing to the abovementioned reasons of unchristian and blasphemous conduct of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, that the decision of this Consistory of the 7th of July this year should be carried out (lit: put into effect), which decision read as follows:- ”Thereafter, the members haying been asked for their opinions on the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, at whose request this meeting was specially convened, namely; what the bretheren thought about His Reverence’s absence, since he himself had requested the President to postpone taking action on the resolution of this Consistory at its previous meeting and to take it up at a subsequent meeting, promising that ha would satisfactorily answer (i.e. explain) the allegations that had been made against him, but now. makes his excuse through the Sexton saying that he had been suddenly taken ill and considering that the Rev. Mr. Silvius had previously been admonished on several occasions by this Consistory in a Christian Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 175 and brotherly manner over his unbecoming and immodest conduct and behaviour, but had shown no improvement at all notwithstanding that His. Reverence had promised and given an assurance, but also that he had now for some time openly, indulged in acts of public scandal and not only behaved himself in a manner that is unbecoming of a Minister of the Gospel of Christ before the entire congregation, but also, regardless of all the trouble that we, have taken and the earnest admonisitions at the last ordinary meeting as well as at the meetings of the Censura Morum in case it was possible to make him live more decently and conduct himself better, has nevertheless continued with indifference in the same, the meeting, having finally unanimously felt obliged to take appropriate action in the matter, made the following decision; namely, that in order to avoid any further scandal and embarrassment, His Reverence be disqualified (i.e. suspended) from officiating publicly in all aspects of his office, until such time as satisfactory redress is made to this Consistory according to Church discipline; and it was resolved at the same time to respectfully report the same to the Government together with an extract of these proceedings, and to await their orders on the same.” Whereupon, the Scriba , having put before the meeting his abovementioned comments against the Rev. Mr. Silvius, as well as the proposal of the Political Commissaris, and solicited their individual conscientious opinions in the matter, it was unanimously resolved, with an expression of our thanks to our Supreme Authority (i.e. the Government), whose aim and desire was that the sanctity of God’s house should always be respected and maintained, to welcome their revered order that the decision of the 7th of July this year should be adhered to (lit: renewed) and put into effect, and that the Rev. Mr. Silvius should accordingly (lit: therefore) be restrained (i.e. debarred) from the exercise of all Church (i.e. ecclesiastical) duties, and also that a report of all these proceedings should be respectfully-forwarded to the Government with an extract of these minutes, and that His Reverence (Mr. Silvius) should be informed through the Sexton on behalf of this Consistory, that he should refrain from exercising all the functions of his office pending the further orders of the Government. Hereafter, the Political Commissaris having brought to the notice of the meeting the great inconvenience that was caused on the occasion of the recently obligatory day of Prayer through the neglect of the brother deacons, who were not present in the Church to collect the offertories, on account of which the decrepit old ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Jan de Key, to the chagrin of the respectable congregation that had assembled on the occasion, was obliged to go round (i.e. deputise); and having found on investigation that the brothers Giffenig and Kriekenbeek should really be held responsible for this, but on account of the absence of the latter, it was resolved, with a view to obtaining the orders of our Government, thereon, to enquire in the first instance whether the lastnamed person (i.e. Mr. Kriekenbeek) was really requested by brother Belllsse, who was indispesedy (i.e. unable to attend) at the time, until which is done both brothers Giffening and Kriekenbeek should be penalised with t ha usual fine pending the confirmation (i.e. result) of our tentative enquiries regard this request (of Mr. Bellisse), in which case, only the former person (i.e. Mr. Giffenig) should be fined. It was further resolved that the reports to the Fatherland and Batavia for this year should be prepared by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld according to the usual practice, and that the decision made regarding the case of the Rev. Mr. Silvius should be mentioned therein, with a persistent appeal for the relief of the Ministers for this congregation. As regards the Sinhalese rhymed version of the Psalms which was revised by the Rev. Mr. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 176

Fybrandsz and the Proponent Louis Pieris, the orthodoxy of which has been confirmed, it was also resolved to submit the same to the Government with an extract of these minutes, and to request their approval to have it sent to the Press, for publication, for the edification of the Sinhalese congregation. Finally, the Roman Catholic baptism of Gregorius Frankena was accepted on the presen- tation of satisfactory proof, and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), the Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz and W.J. On- daatje; Elders: J. Lachom, G.H. Scholtz and. J. de Vos; and the deacons: Messrs. Giffenig, Qualenbrink and van den Broek.

Ordinary meeting on 4th January 1768 (p. 249)

Absent: The Rev. Mr. Philipsz; and the deacons Messrs. van den Broek, Giffenig and Qualenbrink. After invoking God’s holy name, and the Political Commissaris having declared that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the necessary arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion, and he also tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution regarding the suspension of the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the Sinhalese rhymed version of the Psalms, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 4th of December 1767. ”The Hon. the Hoofd Administrateur Mr. Schmidt, who presided on behalf of His Excel- lency the Governor who was indisposed, tabled at the meeting an extract from the resolutions of the Church Consistory here of the 1st of this month, regarding the improper and unbe- coming conduct of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, which read as follows:- (not reproduced in these minutes); and after the Secretary Mr. Van Angelbeek was excused from voting on account of his relationship (lit: affinity), it was unanimously resolved and decided hereby to approve and confirm the decision of the venerable Consistory suspending the aforesaid Mr. Silvius from all aspects of his office until the further orders of this Government; And having observed from a second extract from the resolutions of the Consistory of the 1st of this month that the Sinhalese rhymed version of the Psalms of David which were revised by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Proponent Louis Pieris, the orthodoxy of which was confirmed, it was resolved after due deliberation, in compliance with Their Reverence’s request in this connection, to send it to the Press for publication. Below: Certified by Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” These extracts were noted for information and necessary action. The President then tabled a second letter which was handed to him by the deacon Mr. Kriekenbeek, asking that he may be exculpated as he had also excused himself on the request of Bro. Bellisse from officiating at the collection of the offertories: and having considered the same, it was resolved that he should furnish proof of the representations made by him in his request to be exonerated through witnesses or otherwise. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 177

Hereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and elder Lachom. In the inner and outer city (Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the elder Mr. Scholtz. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrands reported that he had administered Holy Communion in November at the outposts of Kalutara and Panadura; and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje said that he had done so at Negombo, Chilaw and Dandagamuwa, and that he had also, for the edification and the growth of the congregation at Chilaw, recommended the Commandant of that place Mr. Dirk Klomps as an Elder and Fredrik Hendriksz as a Deacon to His Excellency the Governor, and that he awaited his approval of the same. Further, the proposal of the President that the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Jan de Mey was incapable, owing to his old age, to perform his duties in the Church in addition to his duties at the Hospital and in the dining hall, and that the schoolmaster of the Castle (Fort) Mr. Kerkwijk is unable to render him any assistance in this owing to his defective eyesight, the performance of these duties at the Hospital be entrusted to the City Schoolmaster Mr. Sperling until such time as the ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. Reus recovers from his illness, was approved. Finally, those who had requests to make were called in, and there came in Johannes de Koning, who had arrived here recently from the Fatherland as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ on a Zealand ship, and he requested to be admitted to Holy Communion on his ’attestatie’ which he had brought with him, and his request was allowed. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; and the elders Messrs G.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos.

Censura Morum held on the 13th January 1768 (p. 251)

Absent : Deacon F.B. Giffenig. After invoking God’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened to hold the usual Censura Morum, and at the same time to examine the soldier Fredrik Hendriksz who is an applicant for the post of ’ Voorlezer ’ at Chilaw, in compliance with the order of our noble Governor, and he also tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution regarding the three most senior (lit: oldest) Seminarians, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 30th of December 1767 . ”The business over the reports received from Tutucorin, mentioned in the Secret resolutions of today, having been gone through, a letter from the Reverend Rector of the Seminary the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld was discussed, and in conformity with the marginal remarks (lit: advices or orders) of His Excellency the Governor thereon (reproduced below), it was resolved and decided that the three most senior seminarians, named Jan Francisco, Manual Jan Ondaatje and Manuel Moergappa, should be examined in the Consistory according to the usual practice in order to ascertain whether they have been adequately educated (lit: instructed), in the fundamentals of the Reformed Faith for promotion to the office of Proponent . Certified by Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk”. ( Marginal note by the Governor referred to above : ”That the three catechists named Don Salomon, Johannes de Zilva and Paulo Rodrigo shall be promoted from the 2nd to the 1st Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 178

class, and that the pupils named Simon de Silva, Don Abraham, Don Hendrik and Johannes de Zypaet should be sent over to the 2nd class for training under the Catechism Master”). Which revered extract was noted for due compliance, and the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting having been read and signed, His Reverence suggested that the said students be examined before the despatch of the letters to the Fatherland since this too could then be mentioned therein, which was then discussed, and also as to who should be appointed to examine them, and it was resolved that this should, according to the usual practice, be done by the President on the forenoon of the 20th instant. Hereafter, the abovementioned soldier was called in and examined in reading, chanting of the Psalms and in the fundamentals of the Christian religion, and he was found to be efficient (lit: capable), and it was resolved to recommend him to the Government for appointment to the said office, along with an extract of these proceedings. Hereafter, the, newly-admitted Church members were called in, and they responded to the three usual questions which were put to them, and the meeting then proceeded to the Censura Morum itself, wherein no adverse reports were received in respect of either the present or the absent members, except in regard to the conduct of the wife of the former hallporter of the Leper Asylum, on which it was decided that the President should speak to her regarding the matter; and it was also resolved that the deacon Mr. Kriekenbeek, in view of the reasons submitted by him, should be excused from the payment of the fine, which should be paid by Bro. Giffenig only. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and LaChom and the deacons Messrs. Bellisse and Van den Broek, and that in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons, the preparatory house visits for which were to be done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz with the elders Messrs. Lachom and Scholtz. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at Nagamuwa. The ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld assisted by the elder Mr. Lachom, as the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz had already done his turn there assisted by the elder Mr. de Vos. Finally, the request of Louiza Jansz that her Roman Catholic baptism may be recognised was allowed, as was also the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius in a letter addressed to this Consistory to be furnished with an extract of the resolution of the 7th of July and the confirmation of his suspension by the Government. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. J. de Vos, G.H. Scholtz and J. Lachom; and the deacons: Messrs. J.J. Qualenbrink, J. Kriekenbeek, J.J. Bellisse and J. van den Broek.

Extraordinary meeting held on 20th January 1768 (p. 253)

Absent : Deacons: J.J. Bellisse, F.B. Giffenig and D. Ide. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on the be half of the Government, the President said that this meeting Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 179 was specially convened in view of the respected orders received in the extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of the 30th of December 1767 and the intention of this Consistory in this connection in its resolution of the 13th of January, to proceed to examine the three most senior seminarians named Jan Francisco, Manuel Jurian Ondaatje and Manuel Moergappa, whereupon they were called in, and each one consequently in turn in the same order was made to mount the pulpit and was given a set text by the examiner, and they then satisfactorily preached on them according to the system of preaching, and thereafter the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld as President proceeded to examine them in theology, covering briefly all the principal points of natural and revealed doctrine, which lasted for some length of time; the President then, at the request of the members of this Consistory who were of the opinion that the examination was quite adequate, asked the candidates to remain outside, while he solicited the opinions of Their Reverences regarding the examination and as to whether they considered that the students had sufficiently (lit: satisfactorily) acquitted themselves therein to qualify for appointment to the grade of Proponents , whereupon Their Reverences unanimously declared that they (i.e. the students) had quite satisfactorily answered the questions, theories and exceptions which were put to them and that they amply qualified to be admitted as Proponents for public preaching duties for the extension of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ among the native inhabitants, following the example of their predecessors; whereupon it was resolved to report according to the Government along with an extract of these minutes, and to respectfully await their orders on the same. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. Broneveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: G.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and the Deacons: J. van den Broek, J. Kriekenbeek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 25th January 1768 (p. 254)

Absent : Elder: G.H. Scholtz; Deacons: F.B. Giffenig, J. van den Broek, J.J. Bellisse and D. Ide. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened especially to read, approve and sign the letters to the Fatherland, which was done, and they were handed to the President for despatch to the Governor for transmission to the Fatherland. Hereafter, proceeding to elect a new elder in place of the deceased Chief Auditor Mr. Rossier, a double panel was nominated consisting of the Lieutenant of the Burgery Johannes Everhard Jongbloed and the Junior Merchant and Treasurer Gerrit Engel Holst by a majority of votes, out of which the latter (G.E. Holst) was elected, and it was resolved to report accordingly to His Excellency the Governor along with an extract of these minutes for His Excellency’s approval. Hereafter, a letter was handed in by the Sexton addressed to this Consistory by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, requesting that his suspension be not mentioned in the letters to the Fatherland as the issue was still pending (i.e. in appeal) before this Consistory and that it would be contrary to the established (lit: former) practice that no matter that is transacted (lit: dealt with) in the Consistory has ever been mentioned in the letters. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 180

But since the reports to the Fatherland and to Batavia had now already been approved and signed and were due to be sent over for despatch tomorrow morning, and besides as there was not sufficient time left to have them rewritten afresh, and, on the other hand, in view of the decision of this Consistory on the 1st of December whereby the Scriba Epistolarum was definitely directed to mention the same in the said reports, the meeting resolved to adhere to that decision and the directions issued on the same to the Scriba . Moreover, as regards the reasons adduced by the Rev. Mr. Silvius for not mentioning the game in the reports, this was considered to be groundless (lit: unstable) and of no avail, since the Scriba Epistularum , even if no such order was made binding him to do so, would according to the old practice normally wish to mention everything that has been decided regarding Church matters as has hitherto been done, unless this Consistory had beforehand directed him not to do so, which indeed would perhaps have been done if His Reverence (Mr. Silvius) had addressed himself to this Consistory in time. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 22nd of February 1768 (p. 255)

Absent : The Revs. Messrs. Fybrandsz, Ondaatje and Philipsz; Elders: G.H. Scholtz and J. de Vos; and the deacon: J.J. Bellisse. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convenid in view of the following extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 3rd of February 1768 . ”Having observed from an extract of the resolution of the Church Consistory of this City on the 20th of January last that the three most if senior seminarians named Jan Francisco, Manuel Juriaan Ondaatje and Manuel Moergappa, in compliance with the decision of this Council of the. 30th December 1767, were examined in the presence of the Consistory, and that the Consistory confirmed that they had given full satisfaction at this examination, and that they (the Consistory) considered them to be amply capable of officiating as Proponents for public preaching duties in the holy Kingdom of Jesus Christ among the native inhabitants following the example of their predecessors. It was therefore resolved and decided after due deliberation to promote the said persons to the office of Native Proponent , as they are now hereby appointed and promoted, and it was also resolved that these three Proponents , being all of them Tamils, should be stationed at Tutucorin, Kalpitiya and Negombo where most of the Tamil heathens reside and that, in order to avoid any partiality in regard to the choice of their stations at the said places, the decision should be made by the drawing of lots in the presence of ...”. A similar extract from the same resolutions : ”Having observed from a second extract of the resolutions of the Consistory of this City of the 25th of January last that the Junior Merchant and Treasurer Gerrit Engel Holst has Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 181 been elected as an elder in place of the late Merchant and Chief Auditor Gerlachus Rosier, it was resolved and decided after due deliberation to approve the same, which is accordingly hereby approved: Below: Certified by: Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.”. These extracts were noted for necessary action, and the said Proponents were called in, and after going through the formalities and taking the obligatory oaths against simony, they were duly installed in their offices with the blessings of the Session. Hereafter, two ’ attestaties ’ which were presented were accepted, and a letter from the Church at Batavia was read and noted for due reply and record; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (President and Scriba ); Elder: J. Lachom; Deacons: J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting of 21st March 1768 (p. 256)

Absent: The Political Commissaris; the Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: G.H. Scholtz; Dea- cons: J.J. Bellisse, J.J. Qualenbrink and J. van den Broek (all of them on account of illness or official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President tabled two extracts of Political Council resolutions, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 11th of February 1768 . ”And as we have now observed that the Chalias plead as an excuse for neglecting the religious rites in connection with their marriages that the school visits have always taken place at times (periods) when the men leave their villages for the woods (lit: forests) for the cinnamon season, therefore, in order to avoid, these extenuating circumstances, which are not altogether unreasonable (lit: groundless), it was resolved and decided that the annual school visits both in the Colombo Dissavany as well as in the Commandament of Galle and the Dessavanies belonging to it, shall be conducted (i.e. held) in the months of February, March and April when the old cinnamon season ends and the new has not yet begun, and that the School Board shall be notified of the same with an extract of these minutes, in order that they may report their proposals for the arrangements for their school visits in time to His Excellency the Governor. (Below) Certified by Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” And the second extract read as follows:- Extract of a Circular letter from Batavia dated 19th December 1766 . ”We also send herewith a printed order of Public Intercession for the authorities in the Churches in the Indies, as prescribed by us for the prevention of arbitrary and improper arrangements and methods (i.e. modes of procedure), the necessary copies of which should be made and supplied to the respective Churches for their information and due compliance. (Below): Certified by Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Order of Intercession in the Churches of this City for the authorities in the Netherlands . ”Their Mightinesses the States General of the United Netherlands, our respected lawful Sovereigns, the Directors of the States of the respective Provinces, His Highness the Prince of Orange and Nassauw, the hereditary Stadtholder , Captain and Administrator General of the United Netherlands, our Chief Governor General. Her Highness the Princess and her Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 182 family (lit: all, those of her household). The Honourable Directors of the Dutch East India Company, our lawful Superiors. And in these quarters: His Excellency the Governor General and the Councillors of the Netherlands Indies, our respectful and lawful Superiors. And at the outposts: As in the last mentioned order of precedence. (Below): Certified by: Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk”. The above extracts were noted for information and due compliance. Thereafter, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Revs. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. The old city and its environments - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Lachom. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz informed the meeting that he had not been able to visit the outstations of Panadura and Kalutara on account of his preaching duties here in the Castle; and the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld said that he had not been able to conduct the services in Portuguese for the same reasons, and that out of the 200 copies of the Portuguese Psalm book which His Excellency the Governor had had printed at his own expense, 25 copies were sent to Galle, 25 copies to Jaffna; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz too said that he had administered Holy Communion at Nagamuwa, but not at Cotta on account of the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, but that he hoped to do so at the last mentioned place on the forthcoming occasion. The ministration at the Leper Asylum, where the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld had officiated in the month of February, was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, H. Philipsz; and the Elders: Messrs. J. Lachom and J. de Vos.

Censura Morum of 30th March 1768 (p. 258)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld; Elder: G.H. Scholtz; and the Deacons: Messrs. D. Ide and J. van den Broek (all on account of indisposition and official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened for the purpose of holding the usual Censura Morum; and meanwhile, the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who had come over and requested this Consistory to be relieved of the period of four months’ censure which he had thus far undergone, was allowed to leave the meeting on the promise that his request would receive due consideration, and it was forthwith decided that hit case should remain in statu quo since he had not yet complied with Church discipline, and to inform him, through the Sexton, that we will give his request further consideration. Whereupon, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the newly- admitted Church members were dismissed with God’s blessings after they had responded to the three usual questions. The bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits and three ’ attestaties ’ were tabled and accepted; and proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum itself, no adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of the Consistory or against any other Church members, except in respect of the latter, that the widow of Willem Willemze had conducted herself somewhat unbecomingly, which it was Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 183

decided to inquire into, and further, that the widow of Mr. Donjo, who was also a member of the Church and was spoken to in compliance with the decision of the 13th of January last about her lapses, was readmitted to the Lord’s Table on her confessing her expression of penitence and repentance. The services of Holy Communion were then arranged for as follows:- In the inner (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Holst and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Kriekenbeek. In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons. The preparatory house visits were to be conducted by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the elders Messrs. Holst and de Vos. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta on the previous Sunday, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje said that he had done so in February at Dandagamuwa, Negombo and Chilaw. On his earnest request, Mr. Giffenig was excused from the fine imposed on him, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. J. Lachom, J. de Vos and G.E. Holst; and the deacons Messrs. J.J. Qualen- brink, J. van den Broek, J.B. Giffenig and J.J. Bellisse.

Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1768 (p. 259)

Absent: Elder G.E. Holst. After invoking Jehovah’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, whereupon the Political Commissaris having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous ordinary meeting were read and signed. The President then tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution of Tuesday the 22nd of March 1768 which he had received, which read as follows:- ”The meeting considered a letter received from Lieut. Francius dated the 1st instant in regard to a request submitted for the second time by the Roman Catholics, that in the case of those of them who wished to marry they be not required to come over all the way to Colombo for this purpose with their baptism certificates in order to present them to the Scriba there, but that instead they may be permitted to present them to the local authority to be endorsed (i.e. certified) as having been seen by him, and thereafter forwarded to the School Board, which he in fact has to attend monthly; and especially as it was observed in that request that the principal reasons why these people wished to be relieved of the journey to Colombo for presenting their baptism certificates lay not so much in the difficulty (i.e. trouble) of the journey itself as in the time wasted on the same and the subsistence expenses which they had to incur, because they received no assistance whatever on their arrival here, and they sometimes had to remain over for several days before they could get their baptism certificates Signed: and it was decided that no alteration should be made in regard to the arrangements (i.e. procedure) in the orders prescribed in respect of the marriages of Roman Catholics provided that (i.e. so long as) the difficulties that may arise there from can be done away with (i.e. avoided) by other means, as could be done in this Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 184

case; and it was unanimously decided and resolved that the Roman Catholics at Kalutara who desire to marry should as in the past also in the future comply with the prescribed order that they should present their marriage certificates (? Baptism certificates is probably meant) to the Scriba of the Consistory at Colombo, to be signed as having been seen by Their Reverences, but that the Venerable Consistory too should at the same time should, by forwarding an extract of these minutes, be notified of the complaints of these poor folk about the difficulties (lit: inconveniences which they often experience in coming over to the Scriba and getting their baptismal certificates signed by Their Reverences, in so much that they are not seldom obliged to stay on here for several days to the neglect (i.e. detriment) of their business (or trade) and at great inconvenience to themselves and also to the retardment of the Company’s business (lit: service), with a recommendation to Their Reverences to make due provision for this in the future, and especially to the Predikants who have to perform the duties of Scriba , that they should promptly attend to the baptism certificates presented by these poor people as soon as. they are presented. Below: Certified by: Js. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Having been thus informed of the complaints of the Roman Catholics about the difficulties’ (lit: inconveniences) experienced by them before they can get their baptism certificates signed by the Scriba of this Consistory, it was observed on further investigation that their general complaint was groundless and impertinent, since neither the Rev. Mr. Fybrands or the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, nor the person who signs it (or the present Scriba ) can in any way be blamed for the same, and not even the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld who had in fact not caused any delay or inconvenience to these people, but that the matter rested entirely on their having to comply with the respected orders enjoined on us by our Supreme Government at Batavia in the year 1750, which has hitherto been observed, namely: that there should be two irreproachable witnesses of such baptisms, which His Reverence had required to be done in ignorance (i.e. being unaware of) the amendment recently made to the lastmentioned order owing to his absence at the meeting, as has hitherto always been practised here, and, on the other hand, as His Reverence had first been informed of the latest order at the meeting of the School Board, he should at the same time have been informed of these complaints by the President. (n.b. the text of this paragraph seems to be somewhat vague). Further, in regard to the reasonable request of the former ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. de My for assistance in the performance of his onerous functions, it was unanimously resolved to ask the Government to appoint another schoolmaster for the old city (Pettah), in place of the tardy (lit: careless) Mr. Sperling; and, in order to put an end to (lit: prevent) the continuous complaints about the said Mr. Sperling, and to afford some assistance to the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. de My in his present onerous duties (lit: post) which was caused by the prolonged illness of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Reus and the inefficiency (lit: incapability) of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Kerkweik in singing, it was decided to submit these matters to the Government, along with an extract of these proceedings, for their further disposal (i.e. orders Whereupon, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Ondaatje respectively, and arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows: - The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Holst. The old city (Pettah) - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The ministrations at the Leper Asylum - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 185

Scholtz. As regards the letters from the Consistory at Galle and from the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ at Kalutara, it was decided to send to Jaffna the synodal acts received from the former and to comply with their request for ’ attestaties ’, and that the letter from the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ should be handed over by the President to the Honourable Dissava for disposal. Finally, having deliberated over the great benefit which could be derived for the Dutch congregation if the Proponents could preach monthly to this congregation, the meeting decided to recommend to the School Board that they (i.e. the Proponents ) be required to monthly revision classes in their homes also for the Dutch congregation; and the meeting thereafter terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: Messrs. G.H. Scholtz and J. de Vos; and the Deacons; Messrs. J.J. Bellisse, J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum of 29th June 1768 (p. 261)

All members being present. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened to hold the usual Censura Morum, and the meeting was fully represented, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who informed the meeting that His Reverence understood from an extract of the proceedings of the Consistory that he (i.e. his case) must remain in statu quo as His Reverence had not adequately complied with Church discipline, and he also requested that he may be relieved of the period of seven months suspension and be re-admitted to his former Church functions, since he wished to be informed by the Session in which way he was expected to comply (with Church discipline); After deliberating over the same, it was unanimously resolved that the Rev. Mr. Silvius (who was well aware of the said order pertaining to the requirement regarding compliance with Church discipline, in case however he pretends ignorance of the same), should, in order to prevent, (lit: do away with) all further excuses, be informed in writing that His Reverence would adequately satisfy this. Consistory if he would on his part endeavour to re-establish himself in his public conduct and behaviour in justification of his personal character to the same extent that (lit: even as) His Reverence had incurred (lit: brought about) due condemnation on himself by this Consistory by his blatant bad conduct, with a sincere assurance that we would gladly do our best then to finally accede to his request. Thereafter, the President tabled a notification from the Government, which is annexed hereto, which was duly noted for information. He also tabled a letter from the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of Kalutara, together with a statement, for circulation among the members, which was handed over to the Scriba ; and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the elder Mr. de Vos reported that the Church Member whose name was mentioned in the last minutes of the 30th of March wanted him to assure this Consistory that she had never defiled herself in any way nor even will do so in participating at the Holy Supper of the Lord, which voluntary (i.e. frank) assurance was noted by the meeting; and the reports of the other bretheren on their house visits were received and nothing special was mentioned, except that the bretheren who visited the 1st and 2nd blocks presented two ’ attestaties ’ and the name of the newly-admitted Church members, which were handed over to the Scriba Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 186

, and the latter were dismissed with God’s blessings after they had responded to the three usual questions. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any members, either the present or absent members of the Consistory or any other member of the Church, except regarding one member of the Consistoty and two members of the congregation. As regards the former, namely the deacon Mr. Dominicus Ide, the meeting felt that he did not deserve to be a member of this Consistory any longer in view of his rash (lit: inconsiderate) blasphemy (i.e. slander) which he gave expression to over the Lord’s Ascension; but since he pleaded in excuse thereof that the Court of Justice had already punished him for the same as he had sought the forgiveness of God and of the Court of Justice, it was decided to tolerate (i.e. excuse) him on this occasion, and the severally (i.e. earnestly) admonish him to be more careful to avoid such acts of blasphemy and impudence, with a warning that he would be dealt with according to Church discipline over the slightest lapse in respect of this condition pardon in the future. As regards the latter cases, namely: that of the widow Mrs. Koch, and a man and a woman who have become Roman Catholics, it was decided that in the former of them should be notified through the Sexton that she must abstain from the Lord’s Table, and that the latter persons should be spoken to by the President and the elder Mr. Lachom about their faithless and perfidious conduct; And since we have heard that a Hernhutter holds meetings here and has drawn away some of our Church members to that denomination (i.e. faith), it was deemed advisable that the President should speak to him about the matter, and that the bretheren be vigilant and watchful thereover. The administration of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and Lachom and the deacons Messrs. Ide and Giffenig; and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren, the preparatory house visits therefor being done by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the elders Messrs. Scholtz and Lachom. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philips (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); S.A. Bronsveld and J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: Mesgrs. G.H. Scholtz, J. de Vos and G.E. Holst; and Deacons: Messrs J. Van den Broek, J.J. Qualenbrink, J. Kriekenbeek and F.B. Giffenig.

Extraordinary meeting of 5th July 1768 (p. 263)

Absent: Elder J. Lachom. The meeting opened with prayer by the President, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government tabled the following extract of a Political Council resolution:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 27th June 1768 . ”Having been informed by an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of the 20th of this month that the schoolmaster Mr. S.F. Sperling has for some time now been careless in his duties and has some time ago left for Jaffna and has not yet returned, whereby a Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 187

fair number of the young pupils (lit: children) in this City have been obliged to miss the necessary instruction, and that the ’ Voorlezer ’ in the Church here Mr. Jan de Mei had made representations to Their Reverences that he is unable on account of his age and illness to perform these duties alone by himself and therefore needed some assistance, and that the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Frederik Reus had not yet recovered from his illness, and that the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Kerkwijs was not capable in Psalm-singing; it was therefore resolved that the said Mr. Sperling should exchange offices with the ’ Voorlezer ’ of Tutucorin Mr. Willen de Jong who is now here, and also that Mr. de Jong should assist the ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. de Mei both in the reading of the lessons in the Church as well as in attending to prayers in the Hospital and in the dining-hall. (Below): Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” This was noted for due compliance, and the minutes (of the previous meeting were read and Signed: and as regards the letter and the statement concerning the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ at Kalutara, it was resolved to send a conciliatory letter (Dutch: ’brief van assopiatsie’) to the Command and to the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ there. The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld having complained about the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Kerkweik that he was absent (i.e. not at home) at both house visits of His Reverence etc, and Bro. Bellisse having complained about Bro. Ide, it was decided to order the said Mr. Kerkweik to attend at the next meeting in this connection, and to advise Bro. Bellisse that he should address His Excellency the Governor in the matter, on the promise that Bro. Ide will be spoken to at the next meeting of the Censura Morum in regard to the spirit of indifference (lit: alienation or non-cooperation) displayed by him. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), S.A. Bronsveld; Elders: Messrs. G.H. Scholtz and G.E. Holst; Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Bellisse, J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 25th July 1768 (p. 264)

Absent: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder J. de Vos; and Deacon J.J. Bellisse. The meeting having been opened with prayer by the President, and the Political Com- missaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of a letter, which on being opened and read, was found to be from the Hague dated the 8th of September 1767 from the Deputies of the respective Classes of Delft, Delfsland and Schieland ad causas indicas , together with the Acts of the Christian Synod of South Holland of the same year, which was handed over to the Scriba as usual for record and reply in due course, and for despatch of the Synodal Acts to His Excellency the Governor for his perusal and for circulation thereafter to the members of this Consistory. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Kerkwijk was duly spoken to and his reasons were heard, against which no comments were made except that he should in the future see to keep his obligations by receiving the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld during, his house visits; at least at the school visit: which he duly undertook to do. Regarding the request of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ at Kalutara, it was resolved to accede to it; and the report of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Scholtz that they had visited Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 188

the Leper Asylum and admitted some Church members (whose names were entered in the book there) was duly noted. As regards the Hernhutter abovementioned, it was decided after due deliberation, that the documents produced by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in this connection be circulated in the first instance for investigating at the next Session as to which members of our Church had attended these meetings of the said Hernhutter, in order that a final decision may be made according to the relevant circumstances. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders; Messrs. J. Lachom, G.H. Scholtz and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 16th August 1768 (p. 265)

Absent: The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Fybrandsz; Elder: G.H. Scholtz; and Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Qualenbrink and J. van den Broek. The President opened the meeting with prayer and said that it was convened in compliance with the resolution at the last Session, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and he asked the members whether they had perused the circulated documents against the Hernhutters and what action should be taken thereon: it was then unanimously decided to adhere to our previous decision to be very vigilant in the matter (lit: over their activities), and to question the Church members who were summoned to attend as to what took place at their meetings with the person named Butler, which was accordingly done, and according to their evidence the meeting gathered that they appeared to have held some religious meetings for instructing (lit: for edifying) these people, and they requested the Consistory to permit them to continue to attend these meetings: whereupon the Consistory refused to accede to their request as it was contrary to the practice of our Churches, and in dismissing them, they were further assured that we meant well regarding them and that we were anxious to be concerned about their immortal souls, which they too appreciated and thanked the Consistory for the same; But since the Session understood from certain circumstances that this Mr. Butler actu- ally adhered and belonged to this sect of Hernhutters although he did not profess to be a Hernhutter but said that he was a Lutheran, and from other circumstances, such as his refusal to declare by means of a confession of his faith before this Consistory whether he really had not practised (i.e. subscribed to) any false doctrines (lit: heterodoxies) outside the fundamentals of the Protestant Faith, it was therefore resolved, on account of the absence of several members, to reserve (i.e. postpone) the discussion of this important matter for a subsequent meeting in order to make a final decision thereon. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Revs. H. Philipsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: J. Lachom, J. de Vos and G.E. Holst; and the Deacon J.J. Bellisse. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 189

Ordinary meeting held on the 19th September 1768 (p. 266)

Absent : The Ploitical Commissaris. The President opened the meeting with prayer and said that it was convened in order to make the arrangements as usual for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion, and he tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 21st of June 1768 . ”In the order of Intercession for the Churches for the Authorities, it was resolved to insert, next to ’His Highness the Prince of Orange and Nassauw’, ’Her Royal Highness the Princess of Orange and Nassauw his wife’, and to duty notify the same in a reprint of the Order of Intercession to the Church Boards of the Reformed and the Lutheran congregations and to the Ministers and the officers at the outposts. (Below): Certified by J.A. van der Voort, Secretary; and Countersigned by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Order of Intercession for the Churches in this City for the Authorities in the Netherlands. Their Majesties the States General of the United Netherlands, our respected lawful Sovereigns. The Directors of the States of the respective Provinces. His Highness the Prince of Orange and Nassauw, the hereditary Stadtholder of the Republic, our Chief Governor, Captain and Admiral General, Her Royal Highness the Princess of Orange and Nassauw, his wife. The hereditary Princess and all those belonging to her illustrious family (lit: house). The Hon. Directors of the East India Company, our lawful Superiors. And in these quarters: His Excellency the Governor General and the Councillors of the Netherlands Indies, our respected lawful Superiors. And at the outposts: As at present in use (i.e. according to the existing order of interces- sion). (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” The above resolution was noted for due compliance. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, on the question being put to the members who were present whether they had any comments to make, the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld asked whether it would not be desirable in the interests of peace and unity among this community to deal with the activities of this Hernhutter according to the decision of the authorities at t he Hague in the year 1738, in regard to the orders (lit: articles) of that Synod regarding the activities of the Hernhutters and ask the Government to hold a definite investigation, or, in case they refuse, to request the Government respectfully that, in order to prevent all further commotions and difficulties which may arise from this Hernhutter’s activities, who really is not welcome here, that he be sent away (i.e. deported) according to the precedent in the year 1741, which was allowed through the favour (lit: goodness) of our beloved Government on the earnest request of this Consistory; which proposal was unanimously deemed to be desirable and essential, and it was resolved and decided to submit the same in the name of this Consistory for the favourable consideration of the Government along with an extract of these proceedings. Hereupon, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Bronsveld respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) - by Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Lachom. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 190

In the Old City (Pettah) and its environments - by the Rev. S.A. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. J. de Vos. As regards the ministration at the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had duly ministered at the outposts entrusted to him; but the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz regretted that he had not been able to minister at the outposts of Kalutara and Panadura for some time now on account of his continuous duties among the Dutch congregation; And having observed that the Rev. Mr. Silvius has daily (lit: from day to day) gone from bad to worse and had not only caused much damage (i.e. detriment) not only to the work in the Seminary which was entrusted to the Scriba of this Consistory, but also to the ministrations to the Church members at Kalutara and Panadura which was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz as a result of the continuous (lit: unbroken) preaching turns of both these persons; it was therefore unanimously resolved to bring this inconvenience respectfully to the notice of the Government and to request that, in order to make more adequate provision for the preaching turns of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, that they be entrusted to both the Reverend Bretheren Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz; and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje too reported that he was prevented owing to his school visits in the country on this occasion, from ministering at his outposts of Negombo, Chilaw and Dandagamuwa. Further, having observed that our successive letters to the Fatherland, which were both despatched by the second fleet, were received too late in the Fatherland, so that almost no information at all was available to the Synods from year to year regarding the state of our Churches, it was therefore accordingly hereby decided that in the future our Church reports be despatched by the first fleet, and since the time was now opportune (lit: at hand), the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz was delegated as Scriba Epistularum for this purpose for this year, and that the two reauisitions of the Synod of South Holland during the last year 1767 regarding the native Proponents and regarding those who had been discharged from the schools should be answered in detail. Finally, there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (President), S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on the 28th of September 1768 (p. 269)

Absent : The Revs. J.J. Fybrandsz and H. Philipsz (both indisposed); Elders: G.E. Holst (indisposed) and J. de Vos (on official duties); and the Deacon: Mr. J.J. Bellisse (on official duties). The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Before doing so, a letter which was brought in by the Sexton was opened and was found to be from the Rev. Mr. Silvius, which read as follows:- ”I have now already on two separate occasions since it was decided to suspend me from my office requested the Consistory to release me once again from such suspension, although now on both occasions without any result, solely on the pretext that no satisfaction has been given by me in complying with Church discipline, and on the other occasion, on the ground that I had up to date persisted in conducting myself improperly, without any proof for the same. I therefore hereby venture now, for the third time, to approach Your Reverences Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 191

with a brotherly appeal (but with a prior humble request for pardon over the incident on the 30th of November last year) to be finally, once and for all, released from my period of already 10 months’ suspension, and to permit me once again to exercise all the functions of my office as before. I do so all the more conscientiously (lit: with more lightness of heart) because I do know quite well that I have partly been suspended solely because I had behaved improperly at the Session on the 30th of November last year, which is a misdemeanour which has in fact often taken place here and condoned with tolerance (lit: overlooked with a blind eye), which fact I can readily further prove if I wish to expose myself to hatred (lit: to be regarded as a sort of persona ingrata ), which I would rather wish to refrain from doing; and partly because Your Reverences (and please do not misunderstand my having to say so) have always in several ways dealt with me in a personal spirit of prejudice strictly according to the Church orders, for it is an established fact that although a sentence need not therefore be altogether condoned (i.e. extenuated or literally whitewashed), it is however often greatly mitigated (lit: made lighter); and thirdly, because I am not aware that my conduct has been any worse than that of others, as each person has his own personal faults (i.e. weaknesses) which are not so light (i.e. insignificant) as to be able to be remedied in the course of time, and in which one could always find fault with others; and finally, because I am fully aware that even greater and graver offences than those which I have committed, have however been dealt with in a spirit of charity (lit: with the mantle of love) by Your Reverences. In the firm hope, therefore, that Your Reverences will show and exercise your brotherly affection and forbearance (lit: readiness to help) towards me as in the case of others, I look forward to a favourable decision hereon; but in case, however, that fresh difficulties (lit: objections) are brought up (which I hope not), then, I would only request that they may be duly and appropriately investigated and validly proved, and that I may be informed thereof by an extract of the proceedings, in order that I may be duly able to defend myself (lit: reply to the same). Hoping therefore for your favourable consideration of the above, I have the honour to remain, Your Reverences’ humble servant, (Signed): H. Silvius. ” This letter was discussed, and it was unanimously resolved to record the same in these minutes; and in view of the unbecoming and improper remarks made against the Consistory (of which it is personally incognizant), it was decided to ignore (i.e. treat) the letter as being unworthy of a reply. As regards the recent house visits: no special reports were received either in respect of the Fort or the outer wards. Some ’ attestaties ’ were tabled and accepted, and the newly-admitted Church members were discharged on their having responded to the three usual questions. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against any of the present or the absent members, and as regards Church members, the cases of Mrs. and Jonge Menke were brought up, and they were to be refused admission to Holy Communion for the present and to be admonished thereafter by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Lachom. In compliance with the commission delegated to him at the last meeting of the Censura Morum, the elder Mr. Lachom reported that the parties appeared to have become Roman Catholics, and after due deliberation it was resolved that they should be admonished once more by the said Commissioners. The services of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, assisted by the elders Messrs. Lachom and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 192 van den Broek and Bellisse; and the service in the out Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, with the assistance of the same elders and deacons. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with the benediction. Signed : The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld ( Scriba ); Elders: G.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and G.E. Holst; deacons; J.J. Qualenbrink, J.S. Kriekenbeek and J. van den Broek.

Extraordinary meeting held on 10th November 1768 (p. 271)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the deacon Mr. Bellisse. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris was welcomed and asked whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government, and he tabled the following letter, namely:- ”The displeasure and inconvenience caused both to the Government and to the community in that no service was held in the afternoon on the prescribed day of thanksgiving, fasting and prayer, contrary to the special orders’ issued in this connections That the Government wished to know the reasons for this, and particularly why the President of the Consistory, even though he may have found it to be inconvenient, nevertheless did not see to arrange that a service was held.” Having deliberated over the above, it was unanimously resolved to note the two former for information, and as regards the third query it was resolved to report most respectfully to His Excellency the Governor that the neglect (i.e. lapse) in respect of the afternoon service on the recent day of Public Prayer was due to the unfortunate and unexpected illness of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, that the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje (the President) was unable to make any other arrangements for pulpit supply for this turn as he had not been informed by the sexton in sufficient time that afternoon, and that the sexton says that he was not aware of the arrangements that had been made by the Consistory in this connection and that he should have been informed by the President in such circumstances; wherefore this meeting has duly reminded him (the sexton) to be more careful about such lapses in future. Meanwhile, the President said that this meeting was convened to consider the reports to the Fatherland which were now ready for despatch. Before doing so, however, three extracts received from the Government were tabled, which read as follows: - Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 5th of October 1768 . ”It was resolved to fill the vacancy in the department of Commerce and Trade which has been caused by the death of the Upper Merchant and Trade Director (Du: ’hoofd- administrateut’) Mr. Pieter Liebert Schmidt (of blessed memory) by the appoint of a (Joint) Commission consisting of two persons, namely: Messrs. Moens and van Angelbeek, on the following terms: namely, that Mr. Moens shall officiate as President of the Honourable Court of Justice and perform the duty of Political Commissaris (on the Church Board), and be responsible for fixing the departmental seals, and that Mr. van Angelbeek shall superintend the Department of Trade and Commerce, and thus be responsible for the work of that establishment, and all masters relating to the Warehouse, the ships and vessels, the shops, etc.; but the main Treasury vault (i.e. chest) shall be administered by both of them, and the chief books of account shall be checked (i.e. certified) by both of them; and similarly too, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 193

the invoices, cheques (lit: assignments), reports and other documents which are submitted to this Government, shall be signed by both of them. (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 3rd of October 1768. ”After reading an extract of a resolution of the Consistory of this City of the 19th of September last, in which Their Reverences request that the preaching turns of the Rev. Mr. Silvius among the Dutch congregation, since he has been suspended from office pending the further orders of this Government according to the resolution of this Consistory of the 4th of December 1767, be performed by the Rev. Predikants Ondaatje and Philipsz; and also that the duties of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld in the Seminary and the ministration of the native congregations at Panadura and Kalutara, which was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, have suffered greatly as these two Predikants have now to officiate on all Sundays in the Dutch Church; therefore, after due deliberation, it was decided to approve of these proposals and to entrust (lit: transfer) the preaching turns of the Rev. Mr. Silvius to the Predikants Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz. (Below): Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon of Thursday the 20th October 1768 . ”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory here of the 18th of last month (September) was read (n.b. it is not incorporated in these minutes), and it Was carefully deliberated over, and among other things it was especially observed that this resolution of the Church Consistory did not contain any narrative of actual facts (i.e. deeds,) or any evidence regarding the case itself and even the name of the person about whom Their Reverences complain, which, the meeting was of the opinion, should have been done in order that the Government may be in a better position to make a decision on the proposal submitted; and further, that neither in Their Reverences’ resolution nor anywhere else is it yet in any way clear that the person, who in the resolution of the Consistory has only been described as a follower of the ’hernhutter’ sect, could definitely be regarded as belonging to that sect, and whether it could thereby be established that Mr. Christoffel Butler, who had come over here from the Coromandel Coast in the year 1766 and has now already resided here for nearly two years has thus far done anything whatsoever to disturb the peace and tranquility of the congregation or even caused any danger (i.e. harm) to the same, or even otherwise conducted any forbidden meetings (lit: conventicles), or even taught and disseminated at any meetings any heterodox, schismatic or harmful doctrines (i.e. tenets), or whether he had drawn over to himself a following here, before we could justly and reasonably question this man in the matter or make any decision against him or even banish him from here; And that, on the contrary, this Mr. Butler has made a public declaration, a copy of which has been seen by this Government, that he most wholeheartedly and purely and honestly subscribes to the unaltered (i.e. pure) Augsburg Confession of Faith, and can neither believe or say anything against his confession of faith etc., and that his word in this respect should therefore at least be believed unless and until the contrary is proved, all the more since he, far from giving any offence in his manner of life, has always conducted himself as an extraordinarily peace-loving, respectable and good Christian, and also most diligently attended services in the Dutch Reformed Church, and also avoided (lit: warded off) all suspicion of heresy, separatism and forbidden conventicles or enterprises which are Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 194 damaging to pure Christian doctrine; and That the practice of private worship and evening prayer-times the former of which may well have led to these allegations against him, must be regarded as his private and personal concern, and one that is in fact quite laudable and worthy of emulation and even recom- mended by the holy Apostles, and must not therefore be regarded as proof of heterodoxy in teaching or be regarded as forbidden practices and worthy of punishment; That the decision of the Synod of South Holland of 1738 quoted in the Consistory’s resolution was not made in connection with general accusations, but in the case of charges brought after prior careful investigation and confirmed by several witnesses and statements by trustworthy (lit: reliable) persons which prove to disclose matters which, according to the decision of the Synod are proven heresies which tend to undermine the fundamentals of Christianity and for preventing the risk of danger (i.e. damage) to the Dutch community, and that this synodal decision therefore does not seem to be applicable at all in this case, because such serious heresies and the consequent dangers to be feared therefrom have nowhere hitherto appeared to exist; And it was therefore resolved and decided to inform the said Consistory, with an extract of these proceedings, that Their Reverences’ solicitude in preserving peace and harmony among the congregation is most praiseworthy and is appreciated by this Government, who will therefore always readily support their efforts in this respect in every possible way when it is necessary; but. that, in the present instance however, in the absence of the necessary clarification of the circumstances and of the identity of the person complained against, we are left gueswing, and up to now can see no reason to order the proposed examination (i.e. investigation) and much less the banishment of the said Mr. Butler; but that in case the Consistory can furnish any definite proofs of forbidden conduct against the said Mr. Butler, the Government will not hesitate to take appropriate action according to the circumstances revealed. (Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk)”. Thereafter, the Church reports to Holland and Batavia were read and approved and duly signed for handing over to His Excellency the Governor for despatch as usual, and the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Revs. Messrs. Bronsveld ( Scriba ), Fybrandsz, Ondaatje; Elders: G.H. Scholtz and G.E. Holst; Deacons: Messrs. van den Broek and Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1769 (p. 275)

Absent: The Revs. Messrs. Bronsveld and Philipsz; Elder: Mr. de Vos; and Deacons: Messrs. J.J. Bellisse and J. van den Broek. After invoking God’s holy name, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President tabled a letter from the Consistory of Galle, containing their annual report on their Churches and schools there, which was handed over to the Scriba for necessary action as usual. The office of President was then handed over by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje to the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, and the office of Scriba by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. Holst. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Lachom. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 195

The Scriba reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the outposts of Kalu- tara and Panadura at the beginning of last month (December), and also at the Leper Asylum assisted by the elder Mr. Lachom, which was duly noted; and the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz on this occasion, assisted by the elder Mr. Holst; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), the Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: O.H. Scholtz, G.E. Holst and J. de Vos; and Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on 11th January 1769 (p. 276)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: Messrs. Scholtz and Lachom; and the deacons: Messrs. van den Broek, D. Ide and F.B. Giffenig. The meeting having been opened with prayer, the President said that it was specially convened to make arrangements as usual for the services of Holy , Communion; but before proceeding to do so, the Political Commissaris, on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, tabled a letter, which, on being opened, was found to contain a request by the Rev. Mr. Silvius addressed to His Excellency the Governor to be released from his order of suspension, which His Excellency had been pleased to refer to this Assembly by his order thereon dated the 10th of January 1769, which request read as follows:- ”To His Excellency the Right Hon. Mr. Iman Willem Falck, Councillor Extraordinary of, the Netherlands Indies, Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. Right Honourable Sir, I, Henricus Silvius, the Predikant who has, to his great regret, been suspended from office since, the 1st of December 1767, respectfully submit that since then I have on three separate occasions addressed myself to the Consistory, namely: twice personally and once by express letter, in the matter, that I may be restored once again from such suspension, but so far without any success, and I have not even had a reply to my third appeal by letter, which makes me suspect (i.e. presume) that as the Consistory had, according to the extract of their resolution, suspended me on the orders of the Government, they again await the orders of the Government to restore me to my office, so I accordingly respectfully beg to approach Your Excellency with my humble request, so that it may be taken up through the Political Commissaris at the next meeting of the Censura Morum to be held on Wednesday the 11th of January 1769, or in whichever manner Your Excellency may be pleased to order through your goodness and philanthropy. (Below): Only the initials ’Q.F’ appear.” The meeting, after due consideration of the importance of the matter on the one hand, and the absence of six members of this Consistory on the other, unanimously decided to postpone a decision thereon for the next session. Hereupon, the Political Commissaris having been led out of the meeting by the Scriba , the President, who had done the house visits of the 1st and 2nd blocks along with the elder Mr. Holst said that they had nothing special to report, except that they had accepted two ’ attestaties ’ which were presented to them, which were duly dealt with according to the usual practice; but the report of the Rev. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Lachom on their visits in the inner and the outer city was still due. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 196

The newly-admitted Church members were then called in and dismissed with the blessings of the Session after they had answered the three usual questions and the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting were then read, approved and signed. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the congregation. The services of Holy Communion were then arranged for as follow:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Scriba (Mr. Fybrandsz), assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Kriekenbeek. In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the same elders and deacons. The preparatory house visits of the native congregation - by the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz and the abovementioned elders. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at Nagamuwa owing to his preaching duties here in the Castle. Finally the President tabled a letter from the Consistory at Jaffna, containing their annual report on the state of the churches and schools there, which was to be circulated to the members as usual and noted for necessary action. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Vos, G.E. Holst; and the deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 18th January 1769 (p. 279)

Absent: The Deacon Mr. Giffenig (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having replied that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened, in accordance with the decision at the last meeting, to comply with the requisition of His Excellency our Governor regarding the request addressed to him by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who said that he had addressed this Consistory on three separate occasions to be relieved of the order of suspension imposed on His Reverence, namely: twice personally, and on the third occasion by a letter to which he had not even had a reply, and that he therefore presumed that this Consistory having suspended His Reverence on the orders of the Government, were therefore awaiting further orders from the Government, and that he had accordingly therefore addressed his said request to His Excellency the Governor. Proceeding to which, then, the said appeal by the Rev. Mr. Silvius to His Excellency the Governor was first tabled and read out once more, and after soliciting the advice of each individual member, and after carefully deliberating over the circumstances of the case, it was resolved and decided by a majority of vote to report with all due respect to His Excellency the Governor that it is indeed true that the Rev. Mr. Silvius had addressed this Consistory on three separate occasions to be released from his suspension from office, namely twice personally and once by letter, but that it is also true (i.e. a fact) that this Consistory had not replied to the Rev. Mr. Silvius unfavourably on the two first occasions, but that the weighty (lit: pressing) reasons why they were unwilling to grant his request, which likewise on the third and last occasion was done by letter dated the 28th of September last on the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 197

occasion of the meeting of the Censura Morum, should also have been done and possibly even more effectively (lit; circumstantially) than on the two first occasions if the Rev. Mr. Silvius had not made his request in a letter and sought to justify and exculpate himself with such impertinent, arrogant and most hurtful accusations and arguments against the members of this Consistory, which they were unable to overlook (i.e. condone) even if they were disposed to deal with the request in his. letter impartially and without irration and prejudice either to themselves or even to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, so that the meeting therefore deemed it best, bot to maintain their own respect as well as not to aggravate the order of suspension on the, Rev. Mr. Silvius, to ignore his said letter as being unworthy (i.e. undeserving) of a reply, in the hope, however, that the Rev. Mr. Silvius would have given more convincing proof of better, conduct and true repentance at the next meeting of the Censura Morum, and satisfied each and every one that he was making an honest effort in every way to relinquish (i.e. give up) his bad habits, especially those for which His Reverence was suspended, and by his good efforts try to regain the confidence of this congregation, an in this manner satisfy those whom he represents; but that they, on the contrary, with great sorrow, now find and know that His Reverence, far from coming up to these expectations, still however stubbornly persists in his past offensive ways of life to the consternation of the community, and that they are therefore unable to achieve their object and find it difficult to recommend His Reverence to the Government for the granting of a release from his suspension, however much they may wish and fervently hoped to be able to do so. Proceeding thereafter to the election of six new deacons in place of the Military Ensign Julius Johannes Bellise, the Ensign of the Burgery Johannes van den Broek, the Secretary of the orphan chamber Jan Jacob Qualenbrink, the former clerk of the Secretariat of the Court of Justice Justinus Kriekenbeek, and the Bookkeepers Fredrik Bernhard Giffenig and Dominicus Ide, who have asked to be relieved on the expirt of their term of office, out of a nomination of 12 persons therefor the following were elected:- the Lieutenant of the Burgery Johannes Everhardus Jongbloed, the Junior Merchants Jacobus de Bordes, Fredrik Pieter de Roock, the sworn clerk Mr. Franchimont, the Com- missioner of the Arecanut Trade Elias Raket and the bookkeeper Isaack Hertenberg; and as the said Mr. Franchimont is unable to accept office owing to his manifold duties in the service of the Honourable Company and has therefore been excused by His Excellency the Governor, the bookkeeper Jacobus Doebbratsz was elected in his place by a majority of vote, and it was accordingly resolved to respectfully inform His Excellency the Governor of these elections along with an extract of these proceedings and obtain his approval therefor. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signd : The Rev. S.A. Broneveld (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J. de Vos, G.E. Holst, G.H. Scholtz and J. Lachom; and the deacons; J.J. Bellise, J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 10th March 1769 (p. 281)

Absent: The Revs. S.A. Bronsveld and H. Philipsz; Elders: G.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom, G.E. Holst: and the Deacons: J. van den Broek, F.B. Giffenig (all of them on account of indisposition or official duties). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 198

After invoking Jehovah’s holy name, the President said that this meeting was convened on the requisition of the Political Commissaris, who has, on behalf of His Excellency the Governor, tabled a request from the Rev. Mr. Silvius, after reading which it was resolved to circulate the same among the bretheren for their perusal, in order that a decision thereon may be taken at a fuller and more representative meeting. After which two further extracts of resolutions of the Political Council, which had already been circulated among the members, were tabled, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 17th of January 1769 . ”On the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, it was resolved and decided that the annual school visits in the Colombo Dissavany be done by the Rev. Mr. H.Philipsz, and the visits in the Chief Comptoirs of Tutucorin and Kalpitiya be done by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. (Below): Certied by M. Mekern, sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 31st of January 1769 . ”Having observed from an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of this City of the 18th instant that they have elected six new deacons, namely: the Lieut of the Burgery Mr. Jongbloed, the Junior Merchants Messrs de Bordes and De Roock, and the bookkeep- ers Messrs. Raket, Hartenburgh and Doebbrats, it was hereby resolved and decided after discussion to approve the same. Certified by; M. Mekern, sworn clerk.” These estracts were noted for necessary action, and the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed by the members who were present, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); and the elder Mr. J. de Vos.

Ordinary meeting held on the 13th of March 1769 (p. 282)

Absent : The Rev. S.A. Bronsveld (indisposed) and the Rev. H. Philipsz (on duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened partly to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion and partly to deal with the business which was put off at the last meeting. The Political Commissionaer was then asked whether he had any report to make on behalf of the Government and he replied in the negative; and the offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs: Fybrandsz and Ondaatje respectively. It was not possible to take up at present the business which was put off at the last meeting as the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius had not yet been circulated among all the bretheren, and proceeding therefore to the Censura Morum, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The old city (Pettah) by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and elder Mr. de Vos. As regards the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had visited Kalutara and Panadura on his last circuit, which the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje had not been able to do on this occasion, as he now had to conduct the services of Holy Communion for the Rev. Mr. Silvius and also could not find the free time to do so. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 199

The administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum, which was last done by the Rev. Mr. Bonsveld assisted by the elder Mr. Scholtz, was allotted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President); Elders: G.H. Scholtz, G.E. Holst and J. de Vos; and Deacons: J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum meeting held on the 22nd of March 1769 (p. 283)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Bronsveld and Philipsz and the elder J. Lachom (all of them on account of indisposition or official duties). The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened partly to attend to the decision made at the last meeting and partly to hold the usual Censura Morum. Further, the President having asked what further report should be made to His Excellency the Governor on the 2nd appeal of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, which was tabled by the Political Commissaris on behalf of His Excellency at the session held on the 10th of this month, which has been read by and known to all the members of this Consistory, it was unanimously resolved by the now full and representative session, after their careful and sympathetic consideration of the case, in compliance with the order of His Excellency, to respectfully request His Excellency the Governor that the Rev. Mr. Silvius, about whose good name and salvation we were always concerned, may be sent away from here, according to the ancient Church order and practice, in order thus to prevent a final banishment and recision (i.e. cutting away) from the community, which would really be an everlasting shame and sorrow for them, especially as the entire Consistory is convinced of his annoying, impenitent and stubborn behavious, which has grown from bad to worse, and that he has become a mockery and a blasphemy to God’s most revered and holy name, to his office and to the nation among all classes of people here; and it is hereby decided that the Scriba should appropriately amplify this request, giving sufficient reasons and at the same time appropriately refuting the statements made in this request, and that the same be respectfully submitted to His Excellency the Governor after further revision and approval, along with an extract of these proceedings. Whereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the newly admitted Church members were dismissed with God’s blessings after they had responded to the three usual questions; and the bretheren had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except three ’ attestaties ’ which were tabled by them, which were handed over to the Scriba . The meeting then proceeded to hold the Censura Morum, and to our great joy, no adverse reports were received against the, life and teachings of any of the present or absent members of the Consistory or against any members of the congregation. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming services of Holy Comnunion as follows:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders and deacons Messrs. Lachom, de Vos, Giffenig and Ida. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 200

In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the same elders and deacons. The preparatory house visits of the native congregation was entrusted to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz. Regarding the notification received from the Government, it was decided to record the same below (lit: in the margin hereof) for due compliance, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Notification ”The congregation is hereby informed that at 9 a.m. in the morning on Wensday next the 22nd instant, in the Church here, with open doors and in the presence of Special Commis- sioners of the Political Council, the Court of Justice and the Church Consistory of this place, the outgoing deacons will duly account for and transfer to the newly elected Deacons the administration and the statements of income and expenditure of the Poor Funds during their tenure of office, along with a balance sheet of the books of account as at the 31st of August last, therefore anyone wishing to be present at the same at the time and place abovemen- tioned is at liberty to do so as usual, Colombo, 18th March 1769. By order of His Excellency Iman Willem Falck, Councillor Extraordinary of the Netherlands Indies and Governor and Director of the Island of Ceylon with the dependencies thereof. (Below): Signed by: J.G. van Angelbeek, Secretary.” Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Vos, G.H. Scholtz, G.E. Holst; Deacons: J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary combined meeting held on the 3rd of April 1769 (p. 284)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. Bronsveld, and the deacons Messrs. Bellise and Giffenig (on account of indisposition and official duty respectively). After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened at the request of the Rev. Mr. Silvius. The Rev. Mr. Silvius having then been informed of the decision of the Consistory regarding His Reverence on the 22nd of last month, came today to the meeting and requested us to bear with him (lit: deal patiently with him) for the last time, and to postpone the carrying out of that decision until the next meeting of the Censura Morum, during which interval he promised to show an improvement in his ways of life whereby the Session would be in a position to help His Reverence, on the undertaking that in case he gives the slightest provocation or offence then that decision against His Reverence may be carried into effect, repeating at the same time his request, and admitting that he had been rash and hasty owing to the weakness of his human nature, wherefore His Reverence expressed his great sorrow and regret to this Consistory, who, he affirmed before the presence of God had up to the present moment dealt with him in a spirit of much brotherly love and understanding (lit: mercy), and begged to be pardoned for his lapses; Whereupon the meeting, after due consideration of all the circumstances, and in view of the definite assurance (lit: conviction)of His Reverence, as well as in an individual mutual spirit of Christian regard: towards His Reverence, unanimously agreed to accede to this final request of his, and to postpone the carrying out of the last (i.e. recent) decision, and also Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 201

to inform the Government accordingly along with an extract of these proceedings; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz (President), Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; Elders: J. de Vos, G.H. Scholtz and G.E. Holst; and the deacons: Messrs; J. van den Broek and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on the 19th of June 1769 (p. 285)

(No names of absentees are entered). The meeting opened with prayer by the President, who said that it was convened for mak- ing the arrangements for the usual services of Holy Communion; but before proceeding to do so, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on be- half of the Government, mentioned the matter, which was also brought up by the President, namely: that His Excellency the Governor had sent to this Consistory the applicants for the vacancy of schoolmaster of the Castle (Fort) here for our further report after our investiga- tions regarding their fitness, suitability and transfer. In compliance with this salutary wish of His, Excellency the Governor, it was unanimously decided (lit; deemed best) to proceed to examine all of them and make a report. In the case of the applicant schoolmaster of Galle (Mr. Solly), it was decided that he should remain where he is (lit: in statu quo ) for consideration on a future occasion in view of his fitness and in order to assist the decrepit and ailing ’ Krankbezoeker ’ there (Mr. Strigt); and so also in the case of the schoolmaster of the Orphan Chamber (Mr. Lourens), as he enjoys a reasonable means of subsistence; but in the case of the old schoolmaster (Mr. de Jong) it was resolved to nominate him for the post of schoolmaster of the Castle (Port) in view of his profession in the Castle and his request and in consideration of his advanced age, and to appoint in his place as the City schoolmaster the young Mr. Lachom (i.e. Mr. Lachom jnr), who was accordingly sent for examination by the President (the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje) and the elder Mr. Scholtz, and was now considered by them to be not only capable in reading, writing and arithmetic and in singing, but also especially in the fundamentals of the pure Christian doctrines of our true Church, and it was accordingly resolved to report the same, along with an extract of these proceedings, to our Government, for favour of their approval and orders. Thereafter, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forth- coming house visits: - The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Holst. The out City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Lachom, The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, as well as the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the Scriba (Mr. Philipsz), all reported that they had not been able to visit the outstations entrusted to them on this occasion on account of their duties in the Castle. The administration at the Leper Asylum, having been conducted for a period of one month by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst, the same was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Scholtz. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 202

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.H. Scholtz, J. de Vos, G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.E. Jongbloed, J. de Hordes and F.P. de Roock.

Censura Morum held on the 28th of June 1769 (p. 287)

Absent : The elder Mr. Lachom. After invoking God’s holy name, the Political Commissaris having been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the affirmative, namely: that the Government was awaiting the result of the latest decision of the Censura Morum regarding the Rev. Mr. Silvius. Whereupon, the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who was present at this meeting, having been asked whether His Reverence had any comments to make at this meeting;, mentioned that His Reverence, through God’s good grace and help, had been able to fulfill his promise made at the last meeting here on the 3rd of April, namely: that he would show proof of better conduct and ways of life, so that (lit: whereby) the Session would be in a position to help him, on the further promise too that he will continue in the future to persist, in his good intentions and. endeavours; and His Reverence therefore once again requested that this Consistory would be pleased to release him from his order of suspension and re-instate him in his office; which request the bretheren, on further reflection, and in consideration of the fact that the said Rev. Mr. Silvius had conducted himself well during the past three months, and that none of the bretheren had any adverse report to make against his conduct (lit: ways of life), acceded to after repeated brotherly admonition, provided that His Reverence would assure and satisfy the aggrieved minds of the people by means of a public penetitial sermon: and it was at the same time decided to report accordingly to our Government along with an extract of these proceedings and to await their orders thereon. The bretheren had nothing special to report on their recent house visits. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and Holst and the daecons Messrs. Jongbloed and de Bordes; and, the service in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons. Three soldiers named Christoffel Reyger, Johannis Niederheber and Barent Spruyk, who had no ’ attestaties ’, requested admission to Holy Communion, and their request was allowed on the condition that they underwent a short examination. The Tombokeeper then came in with some schoolmasters and submitted the names of persons who desired to make their confession of faith and they were referred to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz for this purpose. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the Church congregation; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: Messrs. J.H. Scholtz, G.E. Holst and J. de Vos; and the Deacons; Messrs: J.E. Jongbloed, J. de Bordes and P.P. de Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 203

Extraordinary meeting held on the 13th of July 1769 (p. 288)

Absent: The Political Commissaris (on official duty), the Rev. Mr. Silvius (on official duties); Elder: G.E. Holst; and deacon Mr. J.E. Jongbloed. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in view of an extract of a Political Council resolution which he had received, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 22nd of June 1769 . ”After reading an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of the 19th of this month, it was decided, on the recommendation of Their Reverences to appoint the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ and schoolmaster of the old City (Mr. William de Jong) as the schoolmaster of the Castle on his present salary of 36 guilders and on his recently renewed agreement, and that the Assistant who has been released from the. Company’s service (Mr. Pieter Lachome) be appointed in his place as schoolmaster in the old City on a salary of ... guilders on a five-year agreement. (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 7th of July 1769 . ”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of this City of the 28th of June last was read, wherein the Rev. Henricus Silvius, who was suspended from the performance of the duties of his office on account of his public lapses (i.e. vexations) in terms of a resolution of this Council of the 4th of December 1767, has again been re-instated on the condition that he preaches a penitential sermon, and after due deliberation it was hereby resolved and decided to approve this decision of Their Reverences, in the hope and expectation that the Rev. Mr. Silvius will in the future not only be most careful to avoid such serious excesses on account of which he has now already been twice suspended, but would also with true repentance and exemplary conduct in life and behavious endeavour to regain the confidence of the community. (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” These extracts were note for necessary action, and a letter regarding the Rev. Mr. Silvius was according sent to His Reverence through the Sexton on behalf of this Consistory. After reading and signing the minutes of the previous meeting, the President brought to the notice of the Session that on account of the continuous duties of the three Predikants in the inner and outer Churches here, the outposts had not only not been visited and served (lit: ministered to) for some time, but also that notwithstanding the fact that there were previously three Ministers performing teaching duties, this work and that in the outer Church would be neglected in the future on account of the work (lit: commitments) at the Rectorate and the duties attached to it and the present school visits, and he therefore enquired whether, in order to overcome these difficulties, it would not be useful and necessary that the Proponent of Tutucorin Mr. Jan Franciscus, who now resides here, should not provisionally continue to remain here to assist in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) and be more usefully employed here than at Tutucorin as we are now lacking in the Tamil schools and Churches; and it was accordingly unanimously resolved to submit this so salutary proposal to our Government along with an extract of these proceedings and solicit their approval for the same. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fy- brandsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz, J. Lachom and J. de Vos; Deacons: Messrs. J. de Bordes and F.P. de Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 204

Extraordinary meeting held on the 8th August 1769 (p. 290)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on circuit in the country); Elders J.H. Scholtz (sick); and the Deacon Mr. J. de Bordes (on official duty). The meeting haying opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was specially convened in view of two letters which he had received, which, on being opened and read, was found to be: one from the Classis of Amsterdam dated ... forwarding the Synodal Acts of North Holland of the year ..., which, according to the normal procedure, was first to be sent to His Excellency the Governor for his, perusal, and the other letter was from the Church Consistory at Batavia dated ... forwarding their report on the churches in the Netherlands Indies, which is to be circulated to the members. Both these letters were noted, for reply in due course. Thereafter, Mr. Holst, who had hitherto served as a co-elder at this Assembly, but has now been admitted to serve as a member of the Honourable Political Council and on that account is released from this Assembly, was so released with the mutual expression of thanks for all the valuable work, friendship, devotion and assistance, and with all spiritual and physical blessings of Almighty God, and he was duly led but of the Church by the Scriba and the brother elder Mr. Lachom. On the enquiry being made whether any of the bretheren had anything further to bring up, the President brought to the notice of the meeting how excessive commotions, tumults and discord and dissensions are daily increasing both among some of the members of this congregation and in their families and households, which give reason for fear of grave conse- quences, and that the cause of these profanities could reasonably, though not precisely, be attributed to the person called Christoffel Butlet, who had come over here some time ago and whose actions have for some time past greatly influenced and roused the feelings of the congregation, both in view of his holding of special meetings as well as the peculiar gesticu- lations and exercises at the same which are too ludicrous to mention here, and that he (Mr. Butler) thereby furnishes good reasons for us to believe that he belongs to the so peculiar and abominable sect of the so-called ’Hernhutters’: it was therefore accordingly resolved, in order to prevent further evil consequences, and also to avoid any further cause for suspicion, I to respectfully request His Excellency the Governor once again to send away (i.e. banish) the said Mr. Christoffel Butler, who is an alien here without even a valid Church testimonial, to any place whatsoever as His Excellency may be pleased to determine. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Silvius (acting Scriba ), Elder: J. de Vos; and Deacons: F.P. de Roock and J.E. Jongbloed.

Ordinary meeting held on the 18th of September 1769 (p. 291)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; and Elders: J. de Vos and J. Lachom. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and at the same time tabled two letters and three extracts, the former of which having been opened were found to be, one from the Classis of Rotterdam forwarding the Synodal Acts passed in that Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 205

City, and the other from Galle forwarding their report on the Churches there, all of which, including the three extracts were dealt with in the usual manner, the former being filed of record with the inward correspondence for necessary action, and the latter, which read as follows, being noted for due compliance, namely: Extract of a letter dated the 12th of May 1769 from Batavia to Colombo . ”Meanwhile, it is our wish that some of the most capable Proponents , or those who are most advanced in the, preaching of God’s holy and precious Word, be set apart to study the Portuguese language, in order that they may be employed tanas both here in the Capital City as well as elsewhere according to their individual talents. (Below): Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 27th of July 1769. ”Having observed from an extract of the resolution of the Church Consistory here of the 13th of this month that the native congregation here could not be visited by the brother Predikants and instructed and edified by the preaching of God’s holy Word, owing to the fact that the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje has been appointed as Tector (of the Seminary) consequent on the death of the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and cannot therefore find the necessary time and leisure, and that the three other Ministers are daily occupied with their duties in the inner and outer. Churches, in addition to which the annual school visits have to be done by one of them, and in view of these circumstances have requested that the native Proponent attached to Tutucorin, Mr. Johan Franciscus, who has come over here on a holiday, may be allowed to remain here for the present to assist at the outer (Wolvendaal) Church; Therefore, considering that the number of Predikants here is really too inadequate for maintaining the regular periodical ministrations for the poor native congregations at the outposts and at Cotta as was done in the past, when, besides the Rector, there were four officiating Predikants , and that a native Proponent of the Reformed Faith at Tutucorin can be of little use to the native inhabitants, since those of them who are Christians belong to the Roman Catholic faith; it was therefore unanimously resolved and decided hereby to grant this request. (Below); Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Monday the 14th of August 1769. ”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of this City of the 8th of this month was read, wherein Their Reverences make representations that for some time past strange commotions, tumults and dissensions have taken place among various members of the com- munity and in their households, which must obviously (lit: apparently) be attributed to a certain person named Christopher Butler who, having come over here from Tranquebar about one and a half years ago, had greatly influenced and roused the feelings of the con- gregation here by conducting special meetings with strange gesticulatory exercises at their meetings, and has particularly furnished much reason to believe that he belongs to the sect of ’Hernhutters’ on which grounds Their Reverences request that the said Mr. Butler may be peacefully (i.e. quietly) sent away from this Island in order to prevent all further evil consequences; And having deliberated thereover, and especially having observed that although at the session of the 20th of October 1768 and on this occasion too in the extract of the proposal submitted by the reverend bretheren against this Mr. Butler no proofs have been furnished Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 206

and therefore on this occasion too there is no definite indication at all of any attempts (lit: actions) against the peace of the community and much less of any forbidden conventicles, or even of heterodox and schismatic dogmas (i.e. tenets), and the said Mr. Butler, on the contrary, had publicly and unreservedly declared the Augsburg Confession of Faith, and that the said Mr. Butler has not even declared that he belongs to the sect of so-called ’Hernhutters’ of the ’Bretheren of the Unity’ (in the text: fratres unitatis), but has nevertheless drawn over several members of the congregation to him on the plea of (lit: under the name of) private exercies of worship, and according to all appearances has drawn them over to this Sect, which has given rise to (i.e. caused) all sorts of discord, not only between blood-relations but also between husbands and wives, and that greater calamities (i.e. commotions) could be feared in the future if these happenings are not checked as early as possible by refusing to permit the said Mr. Butler to reside longer in this Island; And as His Excellency the Governor at the same time mentioned that he had already informed the said Mr. Butler that he must leave this Island as early as possible, and that he (Mr. Butler) had thereupon undertaken to leave for Tranquebar at the earliest opportunity, it was therefore resolved and decided after careful deliberation not to tolerate the said Mr. Butler any longer in this Island, and that he should therefore definitely comply with the order already made by His Excellency the Governor for his departure. (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” The forthcoming house visits were then arranged for as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. The inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Lachom. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had ministered at the outposts entrusted to him, and promised to make a further report in writing to this Consistory as regards Chilaw. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Nagamuwa, but could not yet do so at Cotta. The ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Vos as the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz had already done their turn there. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: Mr. J.H. Scholtz; and the Deacons: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock.

Censura Morum meeting held cm the 27th of September 1769 (p. 294)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders J. Lachom and J. de Vos; and Deacons; E. Raket (on official duty) and J.E. Jongbloed (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy, name in prayer, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits. The newly-admitted Church members were dismissed with the blessings of the Session after they had responded to the three usual questions. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of the Consistory or against any members of the congregation here. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 207

The service of holy communion in the Castle was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos and the deacons Messrs Roock and Raket; and the service in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same elders and deacons. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion in the month of August at Panadura and Kalutara. The Rev. Mr. Silvius was hereby nominated as ’ Scriba Epistularum ’ to prepare the annual reverts for despatch at the earliest opportunity. Further, it was decided that the answering to the three questions, which, for some time past, took place in the Church, should in the future be conducted by the President and the elder at his home as was previously done. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elder: Mr. J.H. Scholtz; and Deacons: Messrs. J. de Bordes and F.P. de Roock.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 10th of November 1769 (p. 295)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. Scholtz and Lachom; and Deacons: Messrs. Jongbloed, de Bordes and Hertenberg (all on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that the meeting today was convened in order to read and approve and sign and seal the reports to Holland, which was immediately done, and everything having been found to be reported according to the wishes of the Consistory, the reports were handed over to the President and the Scriba for further despatch to His Excellency the Governor. Whereupon, Mr. S.F. Sperling came in and for the last time was seriously advised to leave for his allotted station at Jaffna as early as possible and perform his duties there, upon the penalty of being deported in case he obstinately neglects to do so and disobeys; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); and the deacons: F.P. de Roock and E. Raket.

Ordinary meeting held on the 2nd January 1770 (p. 296)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. Scholtz, Lachom and de Vos; and the deacon: J. de Bordes (all of them on account of indisposition or official duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Before doing so, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd block in the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Scholtz. The outer City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Vos. The President then informed the meeting of the willingness of the three Proponents to comply with the salutary wish of the Supreme Government of the Netherlands Indies, which Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 208 was recommended to this Consistory by our Government in the extract of the resolution of the Political Council, regarding the setting apart of the most capable Proponents to study the Portuguese language for work in the Capital City; but considering that of these three persons, the one named Jan Franciscus really had better opportunities here for such work and appeared to be fitter than the others, he was accordingly, on his promise to do so, recommended to make himself efficient as early as possible in the Portuguese language, and it was resolved to inform our Government accordingly along with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; and the deacons: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock.

Censura Morum held on the 10th of January 1770 (p. 297)

Absent: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J. Lachom; and the deacons: I. Hertenberg and J. Doebbratsz (indisposed and on official duty respectively). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous meeting were first read and approved and Signed: and the bretheren reported that they had nothing special to report regarding their recent house visits, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who presented an ’attestatie’ in favour of Miss Lenooy, which, along with the list of names of the newly-admitted Church members, was noted for registration after the usual announcements. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle was entrusted by the Rev. Mr. Silvius to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Hartenberg and Doebbratsz), and the service in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons. The Scriba reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at Nagamuwa on account of his preaching duties in the Castle Church, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje too reported that he had not been able to visit the outposts for the same reason. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against the life and teachings of any of the present or absent members of this Consistory. As regards the other Church members, there came up the cases of those who had been followers of the ’Hernhutter’ Mr. Butler who was recently sent away (i.e. banished) from here by the Government, regarding whom it was decided by a majority of vote to summon them to be present at the next Session for questioning. It was also resolved to warn the widow Mrs. Genke, through the Sexton, on account of her bad conduct, to abstain from the lord’s Table until such time as she shows an improvement in her ways of life an adequately convinces this Consistory for re-admission to Holy Communion. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; Elders: Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos; and Deacons: Jongbloed, de Bordes and Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 209

Extraordinary meeting held on the 23rd of January 1770 (p. 298)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J. Lachom; Deacons: J.E. Jongbloed (indisposed) and E. Raket (on official duty). The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened partly to elect new elders in place of the outgoing bretheren, and partly in view of two letters which he had received, both of which were from Jaffna, one containing a request from a soldier named Joan Frans Wittig for his Church ’attestatie’, and the other addressed to this Consistory by the Consistory at Jaffna, containing their annual report on the state of the Churches and schools in that Province; and it was decided that the latter be circulated among the members as usual, and the Scriba was directed to comply with the request in the former; but considering the fact that a resolution was passed in this Consistory some time ago that the Church reports to Holland should be sent out by the early fleet (as has now been clone here for some years), and that on account of this we have now received the reports on the state of the churches and schools in Jaffna and Galle too late for communication in the letters to the Fatherland, it was therefore unanimously resolved to request the reverend bretheren at Jaffna and Galle in writing to kindly furnish us with their reports earlier in the future, in order to enable us to review the state of the churches of Ceylon in time for despatch by the first return fleet. The Church members who, according to the decision at the last Censura Morum meeting were warned to appear, were then called in and questioned in the matter, and as no real facts could be gathered from their replies, the meeting made the following decision in order to go carefully further into the matter: namely, that these persons be further tactfully (lit: with calmness) examined by the Rev. Mr. Silvius, accompanied by the brother elder Mr. Scholtz and the deacon Mr. de Bordes, in order to ascertain what their tenets and beliefs are, so as to enable us to take necessary action to the circumstances revealed. These matters having been disposed of and having considered the request of the present brother elders to be released on the expiry of their terms of office, this meeting, considering that their presence would be of. advantage, and also that we could then proceed every year to nominate and elect elders (Note: probably what was intended was: in case one of them continued to remain in office for a further year), requested the said bretheren to continue in office for a further year and help this Consistory, to which they readily agreed; and proceeding then to the election of two new elders in place of the other two brother elders whose terms of office had already expired, a nomination of four persons was received, namely: Messrs: B. Aleman, D. Potken, E. Jongbloed and J. de Bordes, out of whom the following were then elected by a majority of vote as elders of this City, namely: Messrs. D. Potken and E. Jongbloed, and it was resolved to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings and obtain their approval for installing them in office according to the usual Church procedure. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Silvius informed the meeting that he had not been able to minister at the Leper Asylum as the President of that institution (lit: place) had not provided him with a palanquin. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (President); Elder: J.H. Scholtz and Deacon: F.P. de Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 210

Extraordinary meeting held on the 12th of March 1770 (p. 299)

Absent: The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (indisposed), H. Philipsz (on duty); Elder: J. Lachom (indisposed); Deacons: Messrs, de Bordes and E. Raket (both on duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to examine the Proponent Don Gabriel Silva for preaching duties in the country, but before doing so he tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution dated the 6th of February, whereby the election of elders by this Consistory at its meeting on the 23rd of January was approved, which was duly noted for information and necessary action according to the usual Church procedure. Thereafter, the abovementioned Proponent was called in, and after he had made a brief discourse on a set text from the Acts of the Apostles, Chap. 17, verse 25, and examined thereafter in the fundamentals of both natural and revealed theology, he appeared to be fairly well grounded both in exposition (i.e. thesis or theory) as well as in the art of discussion (lit; refutation) and that he had not spent his time uselessly since his last examination; wherefore, he was then unanimously deemed to be fit by all the members to be recommended to the authorities for appointment to the office of country preacher, and it was therefore accordingly resolved that the said Proponent be furnished by the Scriba of this Consistory with a testimonial (i.e. certificate) for this purpose duly signed by him, in order that he may then be able to minister in whatever place he may choose to serve. No requests were made, except one from Johan Fernandoge Levensie, who produced proof of his baptism, and the Scriba was directed to furnish him with an extract of the same. Finally, on the enquiry of the President whether any member had anything further to sug- gest, the Scriba mentioned that on several occasions baptismal certificates were presented to him for his signature, in which Roman Catholics were mentioned (i.e. entered) as witnesses, which he had in fact hitherto signed as no definite ruling had yet been made by this Consis- tory in this connection, and that this had always caused him some embarrassment, and he therefore asked for definite orders in the matter: it was therefore resolved and decided not to allow any Roman Catholics to be witnesses (i.e. sponsors) at baptisms in future. The Scriba further said that he also felt embarrassed in carrying out the Commission delegated to him with the brother elder Mr. Scholtz and the deacon Mr. de Bordes in the resolution of the 23rd of January last in regard to the so-called ’Hernhutter’ to be found here, as he (the Scriba ) has since then been well informed (i.e. come to know very well) that all negotiations with this sort of people merely end (i.e. result) not only in dubious but also in ambiguous (lit: double-meaning) and really ludicrous answers and replies of that kind: wherefore, it was also resolved to cancel (lit: hold up or revoke) the said Commission and to summon these people to be present for the last time at the next Session, and to ask them only whether they still adhere to the person called Butler and his teachings (i.e. doctrines) or not, in order to be able to deal with them further according to the merits of their replies. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; Elder: J.H. Scholtz; and the Deacons: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 211

Ordinary meeting held on the 2nd of Apri 1770 (p. 300)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (indisposed); Elder: J. de Vos (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having declared that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the newly-elected brother Elders were welcomed by the President on behalf of all the members of this Consistory, and two extracts of Political Council resolutions were tabled, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 6th of February 1770 . ”Having observed from an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of this City of the 23rd of January last that the Junior Merchant and Treasurer Mr. Dirk Joan Potken and the Lieutenant of the Burgery Johannes Everhardus Jongbloed have been elected as Elders, it was hereby resolved and decided approve the same. (Below): Certified by: J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 2nd of March 1770. ”Since it has become necessary, in view of the death of the Reverend Predikant of the Dutch Congregation and Rector of the Seminary Sigisbertus Albertus Broneveld, and the appointment of the Rev. Predikant of the Tamil congregation William Jurriaan Ondaatje as Rector of the Seminary, to make further arrangements both in respect of the congregation and the normal preaching turns as well as for the visiting of the native congregation in this Dissavani and in the newly-conquered kingdom of Chilaw, in order that adequate provision may be made for preaching duties and for the administration of the Sacraments not only on Sundays and feast-days in the Castle Church (Fort) in the Dutch language and in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church in the Tamil and Sinhalese languages, but also for the native congregations at Kalutara, Panadura, Negombo, Cotta, Nagamuwa and Chilaw to be visited by the Predikants from time to time, in order that the Christian faith may be maintained and flourish among them, for which duties at the prewent moment there are not more than ... Predikants and the Proponent Jan Francisco whose services were requisitioned from Tutucorin, the meeting therefore gave this important matter their careful thought, and after consideration of this Consistory’s resolution of the 10th of July 1766 whereby the necessary arrangements were especially fixed for the care of the native congregations at Negombo, Dandagamuwa, Cotta, Nagamuwa, Kalutara and Panadura, it was unanimously resolved and decided as follows:- 1. That the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje since his appointment as Rector of the Seminary shall be considered as the Predikant for the Dutch community, and that the Proponent Mr. Francisco shall preach in Tamil on Sundays and feast-days in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church, in the hope however that the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who by his zeal and his devotion in his office has hitherto given so much satisfaction to this Government, and therefore also, through the special favour of the Government, has recently been promoted (lit: advanced), would not only preach to the Tamil congregation here in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church off and on, and especially also administer the Holy Sacraments to them, but also, as far as the other duties of his office may permit him to do so, will visit the recently formed native congregation at Chilaw and that of the Negombo district from time to time and preach God’s holy Word and administer the holy Sacraments to them; 2. That the Rev. Mr. Philipsz shall duly minister to the Sinhalese and in the outer Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 212

(Wolvendaal) Church on all Sundays and feast-days, but that he shall in the future also be relieved of the preaching turns hitherto performed by him among the Dutch congregation; 3. That the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz is hereby recommended to attend to the task of the translation into the Sinhalese language of the New Testament and of the rhymed version of the Psalms of David which has hitherto been in abeyance owing to their manifold duties, and undertake this work again and earnestly pursue it; and 4. That as for the rest, the above-quoted resolution of the 10th of July 1766 regarding the ministration to the native congregations shall continue to remain in full force; and it was also resolved and decided to inform the Church Consistory of these arrangements, along with an extract of these proceedings, for their due compliance with the same. (Below): Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” These extracts were noted for due compliance, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Bronsveld and the elder Mr. de Vos. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Scholtz. The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje reported that they had not been able to do the usual visits to the outposts entrusted to them on account of the indisposition of the former and the official engagements of the latter. This was duly noted, and the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. On- daatje; and the Elders; J.H. Scholtz, J.E. Jongbloed and D.J. Potken.

Censura Morum held on the 11th of April 1770 (p. 303)

Absent : The Rev . W.J. Ondaatje Elder: J.H. Scholtz; and Deacon: E. Raket. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting having been read and signed, the bretheren reported that they had nothing special to mention regarding their recent house visits, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius who presented an ’attestatie’ in favour of Mr. de Cock and a list of the names of those who had made their Confession of Faith before His Reverence, which list of names, as well as those presented by the other bretheren, were given over for due announcement from the pulpit and for registration. The Ensign Krauws and the bookkeeper Lourensz having been summoned in, in compliance with the decision at the Session of the 10th of January last, were sincerely asked by the President whether they still adhered to the person and the teachings of Mr. Butler who was considered to be a ’Hernhutter’ and the latter replied that he adhered to the Word of God as it is contained in the Holy Scriptures and to the teachings of the Heidelburg Catechism which is based on that Holy Word, and that he also took care to inculcate the same among the members of his family, and the former said that he was neither a Lutheran nor a Calvinist but cleaved only to the teachings of Jesus Christ his Saviour, and as regards Mr. Butler, since he was a man who conducted himself well and his teachings consisted of nothing that was harmful, he therefore liked him and still likes him: which the meeting having heard and carefully considered, resolved to let the matter remain in statu quo until such time as they have proof of their heterodoxy or otherwise. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 213

Whereafter, Mrs. Koelman came in and requested to be re-admitted to Holy Communion, which request was allowed on the favourable testimony of Mrs. Lebeck and her daughters, with an earnest admonition however that she should be careful in the future to avoid such unchaste behaviour as she had for some time indulged in. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of their congregations’, except the improper (i.e. indecent) conduct of the free maid of Mrs. van Buren named Dorothea, wherefore it was decided to inform her through the Sexton that she should abstain from Holy Communion. The service of Holy Communion in the Inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Scriba in the place of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Jongbloed and Potken and the deacons Messrs. de Bordes and De Roock; and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same elders and deacons; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the President and the elder Mr. de Vos. Further, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, but had not been able to do so at Nagamuwa on account of his indisposition and his official duties. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and J. de Vos; and the Deacons: Messrs. de Roock and Doebratsz.

Ordinary meeting held on the 18th of June 1770 (p. 305)

Absent : Deacons: J. de Bordes and P.P. de Roock. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened to make, the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and he then tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 22nd of May 1770 . ”Further, on the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, it was resolved and decided to promote the Proponent Don Gabriel de Silva who serves at Kalutara to the office of Country Preacher and to allow him (according to the decision of this Council of the 30th of December 1760) the salary of 15 rixdollars per month, as he has been nominated and found to be suitable for this work by the Church Consistory at Colombo. (Below): Certified by J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.”. This was duly noted; and the minutes of the last meeting having been read and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje respectively. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Vos. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz reported that they had visited the outposts entrusted to them; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 214

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius and H. Philipsz; and the Elders: Messrs. J.H. Scholtz, J.E. Jongbloed and D.J. Potken.

Censura Morum held on the 27th of June 1770 (p. 306)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; The elder Mr. D.J. Potken; and the Deacons Messrs. J. de Bordes, E. Raket and J. Hertenberg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Whereupon, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and their recent house visits was noted, and the names of the newly-admitted and recently-arrived Church members were handed over to the Scriba . The meeting then proceeded to the Censura Morum, and no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the congregation; and the cases of those who were already under censure were allowed to remain in statu quo until further signs of contrition. As regards the orders (lit: articles) for the ’ Krankbezoekers ’ framed by the Government and sent to this Consistory for examination, it was resolved to circulate the same among the members. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Raket and Hertenberg), and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same elders and deacons. As regards the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum, the Rev. Mr. Silvius reported that he had not been able to minister there because the Regent of that Institution had sent coolies without a palanquin, and besides this, His Reverence was not in a position to proceed there with the coolies only; whereupon the President proposed to the meeting this two fold proposition for their consideration and advice, namely: Firstly: whether the excuse of the Rev. Mr. Silvius was reasonable or not: which was answered in the affirmative, because in a case of this nature it must be remembered that coolies accompany the palanquin and that without the same His Reverence could not be expected to make this journey; Secondly: Whose duty it then was to supply palanquins? In this case too it was decided that it was the duty of the Regent, as it naturally follows that the person who has to supply the one item that is necessary should also supply the others; As regards the practice in recent times that no palanquins are made available, this must be attributed to the preference of some of the Revd. Predikants and Elders who use their own palanquins, but this should not be regarded as a rule in the case of the other bretheren. Apart from all this, some of the bretheren now think that the administration of Holy Communion in the said Leper Asylum which had taken place in former times was conducted on the present presumed conditions. It was therefore resolved to send an extract of these proceedings to the Regent of the Leper Asylum in order that he may kindly make suitable arrangements for the same. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 215

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius; and the deacons: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and J. Doebbratsz.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 25th of July 1770 (p. 308)

Absent : Elder J.H. Scholtz; and Deacons. J. de Bordes and E. Raket. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened partly to obtain the opinions of the Rev. Bretheren regarding the instructions for ’ Krankbezoeker ’ which were circulated to them, and partly in view of a letter and the Synodal Acts recently received by him. Thereupon, it was observed that the entire Session was of the opinion that the Instruc- tions for ’ Krankbezoeker ’ suggested by the Consistory at Jaffna were quite good, and that therefore the same could in all respects, in respect of the blessing by the Consistory of each ’ Krankbezoeker ’ for the progress of Christianity, be practised; and it was accordingly re- solved by this Consistory that the opinions of Their Reverences thereon in compliance with the requisition of the Government, be submitted to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings. As regards the letter, it was found that it was from the Classis of Amsterdam, forwarding the Synodal Acts of the year 1768, which it was resolved to deal with in the usual manner. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Silvius and H. Philipsz; and the elders Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and D.J. Potken.

Ordinary meeting held on the 24th of September 1770 (p. 309)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Elders: J. de Vos and J.E. Jongbloed; Deacons: P.P. de Roock (indisposed) and E. Raket (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make arrangements as usual for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were first read and approved and signed by the mem- bers who were present, and thereafter the following extract of a Political Council resolution was read:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 24th of July 1770 . ”Finally, it was decided to inform the Rev. Predikants that the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Solly has been transferred from Galle to Colombo to assist the other ’ Krankbezoeker ’, and that the same be notified to Their said Reverences for their information, along with an extract of these proceedings. (Below); Certified by; J. Reintous, 1st sworn clerk.” On reading which, it was decided that Jan de Mey should do Church duties only and that Mr. de Jong should officiate at the Prayer Hall and Mr. Solly at the Hospital here. Thereafter, a proposition was made to the President that it be ascertained from the Gov- ernor whether the instructions for ’ Krankbezoeker ’, which were sent to this Consistory for examination, have been approved. The recently received Synodal Acts of South Holland of the year 1769 and those of North Holland, which have already been read and circulated, were to be sent to the bretheren at Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 216

Jaffna and Galle, and the accompanying letter dated the 23rd of October 1769 was to be filed of record and for reply in due course. Two letters addressed to this Consistory were also received and opened, and were found to be from the Church Consistories at Batavia and at Galle, and contained the reports on the state of the churches at these places. Thereafter, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forth- coming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the eider Scholtz. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Potken. The old City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Vos. As regards the ministrations at the outposts, it was reported that they were duly con- ducted; but since, according to the report of the Rev. Mr. Silvius that on his informing the Regent of the leper Asylum after the last Session that he was ready to administer Holy Communion at that institution provided he was given the necessary transport with coolies and palanquins, he had not received any reply, and that no service of Holy Communion was held there, the Consistory accordingly resolved that the President should address His Excellency the Governor on the subject in the name of the Consistory for the favour of his orders thereon. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ) and J.J. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum held on the 3rd of October 1770 (p. 310)

Absent : Elder J. de Vos (indisposed) and deacons E. Raket (excused) and F.P. de Roock (on whom the usual fine was imposed unless he furnished adequate reasons for his absence, which should have been done earlier). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who presented a Church ’attestatie’ in favour of Mrs. Kalkoen. A person named Louise Hartman, a Church member of Galle now residing here was at her request and on the good testimony of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Solly and his wife, admitted on this occasion as a guest at Holy Communion since she had promised to furnish her ’attestatie’ from Galle. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were then handed over to the Scriba for necessary action; and Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any of the other members of our Church. The ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of the recently arrived supply ship, Harmen Swart, came in and produced his credentials, which were accepted. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 217

The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Jongbloed and the Deacon Mssre. de Bordes and Doebbratsz, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The President having, according to the report now made by him to this Consistory, spoken to His Excellency the Governor about the Commission entrusted to him at the last Session requesting His Excellency’s orders regarding the arrangements for the services of Holy Com- munion at the Leper Asylum, and His Excellency having been pleased to do so, the Rev. Mr. Silvius was directed to proceed there as early as possible for this duty. It was further decided that the letters to the Fatherland be prepared in the usual manner by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje as it is his turn, being the Predikant of the Dutch congregation here, and that mention be made that the revision of the Acts of Apostles in the Sinhalese language has been completed and will shortly be ready for the Press. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz; and the Deacons Messrs. Jongbloed and Doebratsz.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 29th of October 1770 (p. 311)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.H. Scholtz and D.J. Potken; and the Deacons: Messrs. J. de Bordes, F.P. de Roock and J. Hertenberg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of the letters to the Fatherland which were prepared by him and were now ready, which were read and approved and signed and sealed, and it was resolved that they be sent to His Excellency the Governor by the President and the Scriba for transmission as usual) and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs, W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), and the Elders: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and J. de Vos.

Ordinary meeting of the 30th December 1770 (p. 312)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. H. Silvius (indisposed); Elders: D.J. Potken (excused), and the Deacons Mr. E. Raket (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened for making the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Whereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed by the members who were present, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Silvius respectively. Thereafter, two letters, one being from Middelburg and the other from Jaffna were read, and it was resolved to file them for necessary action and for due reply. Arrangements were them made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 218

The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz. And the 3rd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Potken. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had visited the outposts entrusted to him at the beginning of this month; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta; and the elder Mr. de Vos, on behalf of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, reported that they had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum; and the next ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President); W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fy- brandsz; Elder; J.E. Jongbloed; and the Deacon: F.P. de Roock.

Censura Morum held on 9th January 1771 (p. 313)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (excused); Elders: G.E. Holst (excused) and D.J. Potken and J. de Vos (both excused), and so also the deacons Messrs: E. Raket and J. Hertenberg. The meeting having opened with prayer, the president said that this meeting was chiefly convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; But before proceeding thereto, the brother Deacon Mr. de Roock requested that the fine imposed on him at the last Censura Morum meeting of the 3rd of October be waived, as he was really sick with fever at the time and was therefore not in a position to attend and that his son was not aware of it whereupon be was exempted from the fine imposed on him. The baptism of a person named Clara, an inmate of the household of the Foreman of the Ships’ Carpentry here Mr. Jurriaan Landsknegt, was recognised, as well as that of a person named Isabel, the former on the testimony of Catharina Elisabeth Landsknegt and Jan Carel Andriesze, and the latter on the presentation of a baptismal certificate signed by the Roman Catholic priest Pedro Paulos. The native Proponent Joan Franciscus then came in and requested to be examined for preaching duties in the country and furnished proof that he had obtained the permission of the Government to do so, and his request was therefore granted, and the examination was fixed for the 5th of February next to be conducted by the Rev. President. The bretheren reported that they had nothing special to mention regarding their recent house visits, and those of them who had admitted new Church members gave a list of their names for due registration. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, it was found to our great joy that no adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any of the members of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Scholtz and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. De Roock and Raket; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bertheren. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rve. Messrs. H. Silvius ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: Mr. J.E. Jong- bloed; and the Deacon: F.P. de Roock. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 219

Extraordinary meeting, held on the 23rd of January 1771 (p. 315)

Absent : Elder: J.H. Scholtz and D.J. Potken (the former indisposed) and the deacon Mr. J. Doebbratsz. The meeting having been opened with prayer, the President said that this meeting was specially convened in order to ascertain, as it is usual at this time of the year, whether any of the present elders and deacons wish to be released on the expiry of their terms of office, especially as the elder Mr. Scholtz, on account of his absence owing to illhealth, had asked the President to be relieved; and besides him, the following bretheren too, whose terms of office had expired, had asked to be released, namely: Messrs. de Roock, Raket and Hertenberg, which requests, as well as that of Mr. Scholtz, were granted, while the brother elder Mr. de Vos, on the sustained (i.e. repeated) request of this Consistory, kindly agreed to continue in office for a further period of one year. Proceeding then to the election itself, firstly, in place of the brother elder Mr. Scholtz, out of a double nomination, the Junior Merchant and outgoing deacon Frederik Pieter de Roock was elected as an Elder by lot (the voting being equal); and as Deacons of this City in the place of the outgoing deacons (among whom were the previously elected brother elder brother Jongbloed and Mr. de Bordes who has since been promoted to the grade of Merchant and member of the Political Council here), out of a double panel of ten nominations, the following bookkeepers were elected as deacons: namely: Justinus Kriekenbeek, Johannes Clement Guide, Lourens Perera, Mathias Raket, Jan Jacon Qualenbrink and Hendrik Diederik Dias da Fonceka; and it was resolved to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: J. de Vos; Deacons F.P. de Roock and E. Raket.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 5th of February 1771 (p. 316)

Absent : The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Scholtz (both of them being indisposed); Elders: Messrs. Jongbloed and Potken (excused); and the Deacon J. Doebbratsz (indisposed). The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in view of the resolution at the Censura Morum meeting held on the 9th of January last, to examine the Proponent Jan Franciscus for appointment as a country preacher. He was accordingly called in and firstly made to give a short discourse on the text of Luke Chap. 22, verse 32, and thereafter briefly examined by the President in the fundamentals of Holy doctrine and was then asked to wait outside; and he was unanimously considered to be sufficiently capable to be promoted as a country preacher. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; and the elder J. de Vos. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 220

Ordinary meeting held on l8th March 1771 (p. 317)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.H. Scholtz; Deacons: E. Raket and J. Herten- berg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and at the same time tabled 2 extracts of Political Council resolutions and an extract of a letter from Batavia, which it was decided to note for necessary action and for record herein as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 7th of February 1771 . ”An extract of a resolution of the Colombo Church Consistory of the 21st of January last was read, and after due deliberation, it was resolved and decided hereby to approve of the election of elders and deacons mentioned therein, excepting only that of the Trade Superintendent Mathias Raket, in whose place the Church Consistory is hereby recommended to elect another Deacon. (Below): Certified by M. Makern, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 1st of March 1771 . ”There was read to the meeting a report by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the other Commissioners who, in compliance with the resolution of this Government of the 29th of November last year, had investigated the administration of the Poor House, and having deliberated thereover, it was resolved and decided hereby to approve of the said Commission’s recommendations to withhold the payment of monthly allowances to such youths who are really fit to work with their own hands, and also their recommendations for reducing the allowances of some of those who receive alimentation, amounting in all to a reduction of about 25 rixdollars; And since the Roman Catholic poor, according to, the evidence of the said Commissioners, conduct themselves devoutly, and that their allowances etc. amount to mot more than approximately 13 rixdollars per month and the Diaconate is not therefore greatly burdened thereby, it was further resolved to allow them to continue to enjoy their present allowances, but that the Deacons should be ordered, as they are hereby enjoined, not to admit any more of the Roman Catholic poor in the future as the Diaconate is already overburdened with the poor who are members of the Reformed Faith; Further, considering that, according to the said report, the commitments (lit: burdens) of the Diaconate cannot be further reduced, and that moreover, according to the record of the said resolution, it is evident that its present incomes would not be adequate to enable it to carry on longer, it was resolved and decided on the proposal of the Governor, that a house collection be made monthly on the first Monday of every month for the benefit of the poor of the Diaconate, which, in the Castle and the outer City, should be done by two Deacons, and in the suburbs and the Kayman’s Gate areas up to and including the villages of Hulftsdorp and Wolvendaal at the homes of Christians, by the Commissioned Bailiffs (lit: Ward representatives) of the old City (Pettah), commencing from Monday next or at least eight days thereafter; And that an extract hereof be sent to the Colombo Church Consistory and to the bailiffs (i.e. ward representatives) of the old City (Pettah) for their information and due compliance. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 221

Certified by: M. Mekern, 1st sworn clerk”. Extract of a letter dated 11th September 1770 from Batavia to Colombo . ”Your Excellency should also note and observe that we have appointed the Upper Merchant Adriaan Moens on the 6th of this month as Commandeur of Malabar on the salary and emoluments attached to that office to relieve the Titular Governor the Hon. Mr. Seuff, wherefore the said Mr. Moens should hand over his administration as early as possible to his nominated successor the Trade Bookkeeper Bartholomeus Jacobus Raket, who should at the earliest opportunity be recommended to our Lords and Superiors for the grant of the status (lit: quality) of Commandeur and Upper Merchant attached to that post. Certified by: M.Mekern, 1st sworn clerk.” Further, the newly-elected brother Elders and Deacons were welcomed by the President on behalf of all the members of this Consistory. Whereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed by the members who were present, and the office of President was over by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and the office of Scriba was handed over by the latter to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Vos. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Roock. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta, and the elder Mr. de Vos said that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz had administered Holy Communion assisted by him at the Leper, Asylum, and that three Church members were admitted there, which was noted for information, and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. Further, the bookkeeper Mr. Baltus van Lier was elected as a Deacon in the place of the Trade Superintendent Mattheus Raket who had been excused, and it was resolved to report the same to the Government for their approval. Thereafter, on the request of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, the meeting resolved that another extract of the Consistory resolution regarding the examination of the Proponent Jan Fran- ciscus be issued by the Scriba in place of the one given to the said Proponent by the Rev. Mr. Silvius. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed were nominated to attend as Commissioners at the handing over and transfer of the administration of the Diaconate. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed, F.P. de Roock and J. de Vos; Deacons: Lourens Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on the 27th of March 1771 (p. 321)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz and the elder D.J. Potken. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting wa,s convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 222

The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report in regard to their recent house visits, and only the Rev. Mr; Silvius, who had visited the inner and outer City, presented an ’attestatie’, which, along with two others which were also tabled at the meeting, and also the list of names of the newly-admitted Church members, were handed over to the Scriba for registration in the membership roll after the usual announcements in the Church. proceeding further to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any of the other members of the Church, except only the general rumour regarding the elder Mr. de Roock, which had come to the notice of one and all the bretheren, but considering that none of them were able to say with certainty whether the rumour was true or false, it was resolved to question the said elder de Roock about the matter, and to ascertain from him whether he admits being guilty thereof; but since His Reverence neither denied nor affirmed it but only promised to give a reply thereon as early as it was possible for him to do so in regard to the insinuations made against him, it was therefore unanimously decided to ask him to refrain from participation at the Lord’s Table as well as from the duties of elders attached thereto until such time as he has exonerated (lit: purged) himself in the matter. Finally, it was resolved that the service of Holy Communion in the inner (i.e. Fort) Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Jong- bloed and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Perera, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder; F.P. de Roock; Deacons: L. Perera, J. Hertenberg, J.C. Gulden and H.D. Dias da Fonceka.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 8th April 1771 (p. 323)

Absent : Elder: J.E. Jongbloed; and Deacons: L. Perera and J.C. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened solely at the request of Mr. de Roock, who then presented a statement (lit: declaration) written and signed by some men and ladies in his defence and exoneration, as proof that the rumour mentioned at the last Session was entirely false, wherefore the members felt them- selves free to permit His Reverence to resume participation at Holy Communion as well as his duties as an elder. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elder: F.P. de Roock; Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink and H.D. Dias da Fonceka.

Ordinary meeting held on the 24th of June 1771 (p. 324)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris was welcomed to the Session and he said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 223

The President then said that this meeting was convened to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Whereupon the minutes of the previous meeting having been approved and signed, the of- fices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje respectively. It was decided to record herein two extracts of Political Council resolutions, one containing the notification of the appointment of the Proponent Joan Franciscus to the office of country preacher, and the other approving the election of the bookkeeper Balthus van Lier as a. Deacon of this City, which had already been circulated among the members of this Consistory, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council on Friday the 12th of April 1771 . ”The Proponent Mr. Francisco, who has for some time preached every Sunday in the Wolvendaal Church and has behaved himself honourably in his conduct and behaviour, has been examined by the Venerable Colombo Consistory for appointment as a country preacher and has, according to the worthy testimony of Their Reverences mentioned in the Scholarchal resolution of the 4th of March last, given adequate satisfaction at the same; Wherefore, after deliberation and due consideration of the fact that the said Church of Wolvendaal has more than one Proponent on a salary of 10 rixdollars per month, it was resolved and decided, in view of his zeal and in order to make him more and more capable for preaching duties, to appoint him hereby to the office of country preacher on the salary of 15 rixdollars per month, in terms of the resolution of this Council of the 20th of December 1760, commencing from the 1st of March last; Whereupon (lit: against which) it was hereby resolved to abolish the post of Tamil School- master of the Old City (Pettah) where there are no school children at all, and to employ the present schoolmaster elsewhere according to his suitability. Certified by; M. Mekern, 1st sworn clerk.” And the second extract read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 10th of May 1771 . ”On an extract of a resolution received from the Colombo Church Consistory it was resolved and decided after due deliberation hereby to approve their election of the bookkeeper Baltus van Lier as a Deacon in place of the Trade Superintendent Mattheus Raket. Certified by: M. Mekern, 1st sworn clerk”. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Vos. The old city and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had visited the outposts, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta and will shortly be doing so at Nagamuwa. The Rev. Henricus Philipsz presented to this Consistory his translation into Sinhalese of the Epistles of the Apostle Paul to the Romans, and requested that the same may, after due recision (for which task the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz was nominated with the assistance of the Mohottiaar of the Governor’s Gate Abraham Philips, whom it was decided to request His Excellency the Governor to release for this work), be forwarded to the Press; and he Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 224

promised, if God gives him the life and health to do so, to do his very best from time to time also to translate the remaining religious books (of the Bible), and the meeting resolved to communicate the same to the Government, along with an extract of these proceedings, for the favour of their approval. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. J. de Vos and F.P. de Roock and J. Jongbloed; and the Deacons: Messrs. L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum, held on the 3rd of July 1771 (p. 326)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on commission); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed, U.J. Potken, J. de Vos; and Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek. The meeting having been opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Hereupon, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report thereon, and no remarks having been made in regard to the newly-admitted Church members, it was resolved that their names be announced in the Church and duly registered in the membership roll. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any other members of our Church; and it was resolved that the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Vos and De Roock and the deacons Messrs. Kriekenbeek and Guide, and that in the Wolvendaal Church by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. There being no other business and no other requests, the meeting terminated with thanks- giving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. M. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ); Elder: F.P. de Roock; and Deacons: L. Perera, J.J. Qualenbrink and H.D. Dias da Fonceka.

Extraordinary meeting held on 15th July 1771 (p. 327)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius; Elders: D.J. Potken and J.E. Jongbloed. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that he had convened this meeting in order that the members may be present at the opening of the letters from the Fatherland and the Synodal Acts and also of an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which he had received. The opened letters were in four parts, two of them being ordinary letters from the Classes and two special letters which were from Delft dated 14th November 1770 and from Amster- dam dated 9th January 1771. The two first-mentioned Synodal Acts dated 10th December 1770 were those of South and North Holland, which were read, and it was resolved to deal with them in the usual manner and to reply to them in due course, and likewise also with Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 225

regard to the contents of the request in the two special letters. The extract of the resolution of the Political Council read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 2lst of June 1771 . ”On the report of the School Board it was resolved and decided after due deliberation that the seminarians named Don Louis and Pasqual de Silva should be examined as usual in the Church Consistory in order to ascertain whether they have been sufficiently instructed in the fundamentals of the Reformed Faith to be promoted as Proponents . Certified by: M.Mekern, 1st sworn clerk.” Hereupon, the meeting resolved to send the said students for examination by the President who will privately test them in one thing and another, and they could then be examined before the full Session at a subsequent meeting. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed; and the meeting termi- nated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Philipsz; Elder: F.P. de Roock; and Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 5th of August 1771 (p. 328)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on commission); Elders: D.J. Potken, J. de Vos and F.P. de Roock; and Deacons: J.J. Kriekenbeek and L. Perera (on official duties). The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to examine the students, in compliance with the requisition in the extract of the resolution of the Political Council of the 15th July last sent to this Consistory in this connection; Whereupon, the students named Pasqual de Silva and Don Louis were called in, and the former of them was satisfactorily tested for some time on the text in John Chap.10, vs. 16, and the latter on Ephesians Chap.1, vs.7, and the President (Rev. Fybrandsz) then proceeded to examine them further, especially on the fundamentals of natural and revealed Theology, which examination lasted for some time, and the President then solicited the sentiments of the members as to whether the examination was adequate, and having asked the candidates to remain outside, he asked the members of this Consistory for their further opinions on the examination held and whether they considered that the said students had sufficiently qualified at the test to be admitted to the grade of Proponent whereupon Their Reverences unanimously confirmed that they had fared sufficiently well to be admitted for public preaching duties along with the other Proponents ; and it was at the same time decided to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for their approval. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrands (President), Ondaatje ( Scriba ) and Silvius; Elder: J.E. Jongbloed and Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 226

Ordinary meeting held on the 23rd September 1771 (p. 329)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on commission); Elders: D.J. Potken and J. de Vos; and the Deacon: L. Perera. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris having then been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the President tabled two extracts of Political Council resolutions, one approving the translation of the Epistle of St, Paul to the Romans in the Sinhalese language by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to be sent for revision, and the other regarding the appointment of the two recently-examinee students for the office of Proponent , which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 19th of July 1771 . ”It was observed from an extract of a resolution of the Colombo Church Consistory of the 15th of this month that the Rev. Hendrik Philipsz has. translated into the Sinhalese language the Epistle of St. Paul to the Romans and undertaken to zealously devote himself to the translation of the other yet untrsnalated canonical books of the Bible: whereupon, after due deliberation, it was resolved and decided to approve of the Consistory’s proposal to delegate the task of revision of the said translation to the Predikant Joan Joachim Fybrandsz and appointed the Mohottiaar of the Governor’s Gate Abraham Philipsz to help His Reverence in that work, and to thank the Rev. Mr. Philipsz for the trouble he has taken, as we do hereby thank him, with the recommendation that he should devote himself further with the same laudable zeal (or ardour) to the translation of the remaining untranslated Canonical books. (Below): Certified by: M. Mekern, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 13th of August 1771 . ”Having been notified in an extract of a resolution of the Colombo Church Consistory of the 5th instant that the students of the Seminary, named Pasqual de Silva and Don Louis, who were examined by Their Reverences in compliance with the resolution of this Council of the 21st of June last for appointment to the office of Proponent , have been found by the said Consistory to be suitable for appointment as Proponents and for public preaching duties, it was hereby resolved and decided, after due deliberation, that the said Pasqual de Silva and Don Louis be so appointed; And it was further resolved to permit the said Pasqual de Silva and the Tamil Proponent Manuel Morgappa, who have studied the Portuguese language, to proceed to Batavia at the next available opportunity, in compliance with Their Excellencies’ revered orders of the 12th of May 1769 and 7th May 1771. Hereafter, the office of President, in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and that of Scriba Scriba was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; and the following arrangements were, made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Roock. The Old City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the edler Mr. de Vos. As regards the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he was about to proceed Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 227 shortly to Kalutara and Panadura to administer Holy Communion at these places; the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Nagamuwa and will shortly be proceeding to do so at Cotta; the Leper Asylum was ministered to by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, and this duty was entrusted to the Scriba and the elder Mr. de Roock on the present occasion. The meeting having proceeded further to the appointment of a Scriba Epistolarum for this year, was however unable to do so on account of the poor attendance at the present Session, and this was postponed for the date of the next Censura Morum meeting. Regarding the two Synodal Acts which were received here this year and were circulated as usual, these were now to be sent with a covering letter to Galle. Finally, the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Jacob van der Tak, who had arrived here this year on one of the supply ships, was called in and presented his credentials, which were found to be valid and accepted, and they were handed back to him. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Philipsz (President and Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.E. Jongbloed; and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on the 2nd of October 1771 (p. 331)

Absent : The. Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje; Elders: Messrs. Potken, Jongbloed and de Vos; and Deacons: Messrs. Gulden and van Lier. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Hereupon, the minutes of the previous meeting were read, approved and signed by the members who were present. The bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who tabled a Church ’attestatie’ in favour of Maria Elisabeth Cramer from Jaffna, which, along with the names of the recently-admitted Church members, were accepted for registration in the membership rolls. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any other members of the congregation, except that the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who was now remonstrated over a lapse on his part on a certain occasion, was given the opportunity of withdrawing his statement (lit: words), which was accepted by the bretheren. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the brother elders Messrs. Potken and Jongbloed and the deacons Messrs. van Lier and Da Fonceka; and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the same bretheren, and the preparatory house visits in the outer City were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz St the elder Mr. de Roock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President and Scriba ) and H. Silvius; Elder: F.P. de Roock; and Deacons: L. Perera, J. Kriekenbeek, J.J. Qualenbrink and H.D. Dias da Fonceka. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 228

Extraordinary meeting held on 9th October 1771 (p. 332)

Absent : The elders Messrs. de Vos and de Roock (the latter being excused). The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje having safely returned and summoned the bretheren, opened the meeting with prayer, and said that this meeting was convened in order to solve (lit: arbitrated over) a minor difference among the bretheren (lit: a brotherly dispute), and before doing so, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed. The President then said that the so-called difference between the bretheren to settle which this meeting was partly convened, was that it had not been possible to decide who should be nominated for the preparation of the annual reports to the Fatherland, which was now once again brought up, and notwithstanding that one section of the bretheren were of the opinion that this work should also be. attended to by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz on the contrary asked to be excused from the same, which another section of the bretheren supported as being reasonable unless the Rev. Mr. Philipsz wished to undertake the same; whereupon,(in order to avoid unnecessary argument) His Reverence readily undertook the task of preparing the annual reports to the Fatherland for this year and to reply to the letters as usual with a report on the state and condition of the churches and schools entrusted to our care here as now decided. Hereupon, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje informed the meeting that having found no elder to assist him at Kalpitiya in the month of June 1771 he had, subject to approval, elected the bookkeeper Abraham Mauritz Fabritius as an elder and the Assistant Carel Braimond Goldestein as deacon there in place of the bookkeeper Gerrit Meby who had retired on account of old age, and at Tutucorin in the month of September, in place of the defaulting elder, he had also, according the usual custom, elected as elder the Ensign Bernard Izaack de Ballon: this was duly noted. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje (President), Philipsz ( Scriba ), H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J.E. Jongbloed; and Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 7th November 1771 (p. 333)

Absent : Elders: D.J. Potken, F.P. de Roock; Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, and after the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, the meeting proceed to read, sign and seal letters to the Fatherland which had been prepared, and for which purpose this meeting was specially convened, which having then been done, they were handed over to the President and the Scriba for transmission to His Excellency the Governor with a request that they may be despatched with the other documents. Regarding the Sinhalese translation of the Epistle of the Holy Apostle of Paul to the Romans which, in accordance with the decision of this Consistory and the approval thereof of the Governor, has been revised by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Mohottiaar Abraham Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 229

Philipsz and found to be a true and accurate translation, it was resolved to submit the same to the Government with an extract of these proceedings, with a request that it be sent for publication (lit: to the Press) for the edification of the Sinhalese congregation. Finally, it was also decided to deal in the usual manner with the letter from Galle for- warding their report on the state of their churches and schools under sealed cover to this Consistory; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and J. de Vos; Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on the 30th of December 1771 (p. 334)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; and Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek (excused). The meeting having begun with prayer, the President said that it was specially convened to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Firstly, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, having replied in the negative, the President tabled a letter, which, on being opened, was found to be from Jaffna, containing the report on their churches there, whereupon it was resolved to deal with it in the usual manner. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev.s. Philipsz and Silvius respec- tively. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The 3rd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Roock. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had recently administered Holy Com- munion at Cotta, but not at Nagamuwa; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on the 8th of January 1772 (p. 335)

Absent : Elders: D.J. Potken (excused), J. de Vos (indisposed), J.E. Jongbloed and B. van Lier (absent in the country). The meeting having opened with prayer, the Presidents said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, whereupon the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report and presented the names of those who had been recently admitted as Church members, which was accepted along with that of those who had come over to us with their Church ’ attestaties ’ which were read and approved and accepted for registration in the membership rolls. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, (thank God) no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any of the other members of the congregation. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 230

The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Vos and De Roock and the deacons Messrs. Perera and Qualenbrink; and the service and the preparatory house visits in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) were entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren; and that at the Leper Asylum was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. The one Daniel Hendrik Tenius came in and requested to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion until such time as he receives his ’attestatie’ from Bremen: which request was granted. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion last November at Kalutara and Panadura; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Silvius ( Scriba ); Elder: F.P. de Roock; and the Deacons: L. Perera, J.J. Qualenbrink and J.C. Gulden.

Extraordinary meeting held on 20th January 1772 (p. 336)

Absent : Elders: D.J. Potken and J. de Vos; Deacons: B. van Lier, J.C. Gulden and H.D. Dias da Fonceka. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual election of elders and deacons, in case any of the bretheren whose terms of office had expired wished to be released. Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled an extract of a Political Council resolution dated the 31st of December last year, which, on being read, it was observed that the Sinhalese translation of the Epistle to the Romans, which had been revised by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Philipsz and approved by this Consistory, had been approved for publication by the Press: which was duly noted for necessary action. Further, the President having asked which of the brother elders and deacons wished to be released on the expiry of their term of office, it was observed that the terms of none of the bretheren had expired, except only that of the elder brother Jongbloed; and since he earnestly insisted on being released for the reasons stated by him, he, however, in view of the earnest and pressing wish of this Consistory and to the great Joy of all the members who were present, agreed to continue in office for a further period of a year; While, of those who were absent, there was only the brother elder Mr. de Vos, who in a letter today had asked to be relieved, and since he had already, on being urged by this Consistory on two separate occasions, served for two years beyond the usual term of office, his request was graciously allowed, and in his place, out of a double panel of nominations, the burger Hendrik Joannes van den Broek was elected by a majority of vote, and it was resolved to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. Further, the Scriba of this Consistory reported that he had visited the Leper Asylum on the 12th instant with the elder Mr. de Roock in order to administer Holy Communion there, and had found that nothing was ready on his arrival there in spite of the fact that he had notified the President of the Leper Asylum through the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 231

Sexton several days in advance; whereupon it was resolved that the President takes up this matter with the President of the Leper Asylum Mr. de Bordes. The President also tabled at this meeting the 1st Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians as translated by him into Sinhalese, with the request that it be further revised: which request was acceded to, and this task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Abraham Philips; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting; held on 6th April 1772 (p. 338)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (on circuit); Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacons: J. Krieken- beek and L. Perera (who were excused); the elder Mr. De Roock, who came in after the prayer period was penalised with the usual fine. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government reported in the negative, and thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Silvius and Fybrandsz respectively, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje acted as Scriba pro tem [ pore ]. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Vos. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Potken. The old city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Roock. The elder Mr. de Vos reported that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with his assistance, and that they had admitted a person named Cornelis Hendrik van Embdem, a former drummer, as a member of the Church. Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Ondaatje too said that they had duly ministered at their respective outposts. Finally, the key of the bookcase (i.e. almirah) belonging to the Consistory was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje, H. Philipsz; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and P.P. de Roock; and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on 15th April 1772 (p. 339)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (on circuit in the country), H. Philipsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: D.J. Potken and J. de Vos (indisposed); and the Deacons: B. van Lier, H.D. Dias da Fonceka and J. Kriekenbeek. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. After the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, the bretheren said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits; and the names of the newly- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 232

admitted Church members and the ’ attestaties ’ tabled were then handed over to the Scriba for due registration in the rolls. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, it was observed that there was nothing special to mention. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Jongbloed and the deacons Messrs. Kriekenbeek and Gulden; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal Church) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. No further matters were brought up, except that the President, in the case of emergency (lit: need), could decide on matters concerning the country preachers and Proponents ; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Silvius (President); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; and the deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on 22nd June 1772 (p. 340)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. H. Silvius; Elder: J. de Vos; and Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek (both of them on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, who acted as President in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Silvius to attend to matters that nay be brought up at today’s session, said that the meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion; And firstly, the minutes of the previous meeting having been approved and signed, the office of President was taken over from the Rev. Mr. Silvius by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, and that of Scriba was taken over from the latter by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Thereafter, an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which had already been circulated was tabled, and its contents were recorded herein as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 31st of March 1772 . ”Having observed from an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 20th of January last that the Ensign of the Burgery Johannes van den Broek has been elected as an elder in place of the elder Johannes de Vos who has been released, it was hereby resolved and decided to approve the same. (Below): Certified by W. Billing, provl. 1st sworn clerk”. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. van den Broek. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Potken. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed reported that they had administered Holy Communion this month at the Leper Asylum to seven lepers, and this duty was allotted on the present occasion to the Rev. Mr. Silvius assisted by the elder Mr. van den Broek; and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion to the members at the outposts entrusted to him, and also done the revision of the translation into Sinhalese of the Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 233 and that according to the revision of the same done by him and the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz was found, like the revision of the Epistle to the Romans, to be a true and accurate translation; and it was decided to report accordingly to the Government with an extract of these proceedings, and to solicit their approval to have it published for the edification of the Sinhalese congregation. A request was made by a Sergeant named Casparus van Schelver of Dort who had come at the request of His Excellency the Governor to be examined here with a view to ascertaining whether he had the necessary qualifications for the duties of ’ Krankbezoeker ’, and he was sent over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands the elder Mr. Jongbloed for this purpose, who, having examined him on the 29th instant, confirmed that he possessed the necessary qualifications for the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’, it was resolved to report accordingly to the Government for the favour of their approval. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock and J. van den Broek; Deacons: L. Perera and H.D. Dias da Fonceka.

Censura Morum of ... June 1772 (p. 341)

Absent : Deacons: J. Kriekenbeek, L. Perera, H.D. Da Fonceka and J.C. Gulden (all of them on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, and the minutes of the previous meeting having first been approved and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that one of them had received an ’attestatie’, which was handed over to the Scriba along with the names of the newly-admitted Church members for due registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any members of the congregation, except in the case of Mrs. Franszen, and in view of the bad reports received against her, it was decided to inform her through the Sexton in the name of this Consistory, that she should refrain from participation at the Lord’s Table on this occasion. The service of Holy Communion in the Fort Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Rook and van den Broek and the deacons Messrs. da Fonceka and van Lier, and that in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren, and that in the Leper Asylum to the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. van den Broek. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: D.J. Potken, J.E. Jongbloed, F.P. de Roock and J. van den Broek; and the deacon J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on 21st September 1772 (p. 342)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on commission); Elder: D.J. Potken; and the deacon: J. Kriekenbeek. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 234

The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and the Political Commissaris having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting having then been approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba having been handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively, a packet received by the President was opened, which, on being read, was found to be from the Classis of Amsterdam, dated 8th April 1771, forwarding the Synodal Acts of South Holland held in that year at the Hague, which was noted for necessary action as usual, and it was decided to record herein two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council which had already been circulated to members and which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 17th of July 1772 . ”Having observed from a resolution of the Colombo Church Consistory on the 22nd of June that the 1st Epistle of the Apostle St. Paul to the Corinthians, which has been translated into the Sinhalese language by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, has been revised by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz, and found to be a true and accurate translation, it was therefore resolved and decided to have it printed and published for the edification of the Sinhalese congregation, and to thank the Rev. Mr. Philipsz for the trouble he has taken, with a recommendation that he should pursue with the same laudable zeal with the translation of the yet untranslated canonical books of the Bible”. Further extract of the aforesaid resolution. ”Having also observed from the abovemen- tioned resolution of the Consistory that the Sergeant Casparus van Schelver of Dort was found on examination to be possessed of the necessary qualifications for the post of ’ Krankbe- zoeker ’, it was therefore resolved and decided that the said Casparus van Schelver could be hereby appointed as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ at Batticaloa, where the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Kol- lette is so advanced in years that he can no longer satisfactorily perform his duties. (Below): Certified by: W. Billing, provisional 1st sworn clerk”. Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Friday the 17th of July 1772 . ”On a request from the officials at Galle of the 1st of July for a second Predikant , or at least a Proponent , to assist the Predikant Mr. Spoor since His Reverence in spite of his great zeal is unable to minister alone by himself, and the Predikant Mr. Schmidt on account of his advanced age is unable to perform the duties of Predikant , it was resolved and decided to transfer the Proponent of Kalutara Don Gabriel to Galle and. the Proponent Don Louis to Kalutara. (Below): Certified by: W. Billing, provisional 1st sworn clerk.” Thereafter, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st. block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Roock. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The old City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. van den Broek. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Kalutara and Panadura and at the Leper Asylum for the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and the ministration at this institution was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had ministered at the outposts entrusted to him. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 235

Further, having discussed as to who should be delegated to prepare the annual reports, and what matters should be mentioned in the reports to the Fatherland and to Batavia, this task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, and that the letters should be replied to as usual and also that mention be made of the important matters recorded in the minute book. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz further presented at this meeting his translations into Sinhalese of the 2nd Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians and the Epistle to the Galatians, with the request that the same may be revised; which request was acceded to, and this work was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz for revision with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz, and it was also resolved at the same time to report accordingly to the Government with an extract of these proceedings. Among those who had requests to make there was Only the native Predikant Don Gabriel, who came in and requested this Consistory to furnish him with a Church ’attestatie’ as he, having been, transferred by the Government of this Island to Galle, was about to leave for that place, which was granted to him, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), M. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; and Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on 30th September 1772 (p. 345)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz and H. Philipsz; Deacons: Messrs. J. Kriekenbeek, B. van Lier and H.D. Dias da Fonceka. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that two ’ attestaties ’ were presented, which, along with the list of names of the newly-admitted Church members, were dealt with in the usual manner. Mrs. Fransen than came in and presented an unusual (lit: fantastic) request, which was refused by the meeting as being contrary to Church practice. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum, the meeting observed with joy and satisfaction the good and proper conduct of the members of this Consistory and of the members of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Jongbloed and the deacons Messrs. Perera and Qualenbrink, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had duly ministered at the outposts entrusted to him and had found everything to be quiet and in order, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (President); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and P.P. de Roock; and the Deacons: L. Perera, J.J. Qualenbrink and J.C. Gulden. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 236

Extraordinary meeting held on 19th October 1772 (p. 346)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius; Elders: D.J. Potken, J. van den Broek; and the Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in view of a letter which he had received, addressed to this Consistory. Firstly, the Political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed by the members who were present. The letter was then opened and read and was found to be from the Classis of Walcheren, dated at Middelburg the 18th of October 1771, which was noted for record and necessary action and passed on to the Scriba Epistularum along with a report now tabled by the Pres- ident regarding the progress of the students at the Seminary so that they may be mentioned in the letters to the Fatherland. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fy- brandsz; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualen- brink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 9th November 1772 (p. 347)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: F.P. de Roock and J. van den Broek; Deacons: J. Kriekenbeek, H.D. da Fonceka and B. van Lier. The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to approve and sign and seal the letters to the Fatherland which had been prepared by the Rev. Mr. Silvius: which was accordingly done, and it was resolved to have them sent to His Excellency through the President and the Scriba for favour of transmission as usual. It was also resolved that a letter from Galle dated the 25th of September, forwarding a copy of their report on their annual school visits, be note d for record and for necessary action, and that an extract of a Political Council resolution regarding the revision of the 2nd Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Corinthians and his Epistle to the Galatians, which had been circulated to the members and which read as follows, be incorporated herein:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 23rd of October 1772 . ”Having observed from a resolution of the Church Consistory that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Philips, has been entrusted with the revision of the 2nd Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Corinthians and of the Epistle of the same Apostle to the Galatians, which had been translated into Sinhalese by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, it was accordingly resolved and. decided to note the same and to convey to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz the special appreciation of this Council of the zeal which he has shown in this work. (Below): Certified by J. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 237

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ) H. Silvius; Elder: J.E. Jongbloed; Deacons: L. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Ordinary meeting held on 28th November 1772 (p. 348)

Absent : The elder J.D. Potken. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting having then been read and approved and signed, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Silvius. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz then reported that he had revised the translations of the 2nd Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians and also the Epistle to the Galatians with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz and found them to be accurate, and it was accordingly resolved to forward them to the Government with an extract of these proceedings, for their approval to have them printed and published. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Mr.de Roock. The 3rd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Mr. Jongbloed. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had recently administered Holy Commu- nion at Cotta and that he will shortly do so at Nagamuwa. There were no requests, except those of Paulus Menke and Jacobus Bartimeus, both of whom asked to be examined for appointment as ’ Krankbezoeker ’: which requests were allowed and they were sent over for examination by the President in the presence of the elder Mr. de Roock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz and W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: F.P. de Roock; and the deacons: Messrs. I. Perera and J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on the 6th of January 1773 (p. 349)

Absent : Elders D.J. Potken and J. van den Broek; Deacon: J. Kriekenbeek. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened to hold the usual Censura Morum; But before doing so, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that they tabled the names of those who had been admitted as Church members, which were noted for due registration in the membership roll. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or against, any members of the congrega- tion. The services of Holy Communion both in the inner (Fort) and the outer (Wolvendaal) Church were entrusted, on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje assisted by the elders Messrs. de Roock and van den Broek and the deacons Messrs, Kriekenbeek and Gulden. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 238

The President reported that in terms of the commission delegated to him at the previous meeting he had ’examined the applicants Paulus Menke and Jacobus Bartimeus, and that the latter was better in singing than the former, but that the former fared better in Holy Doctrine, for which reason the meeting decided to recommend the former to the Government for appointment as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ along with an extract of these proceedings for their approval. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and F.P. de Roock; and the Deacon J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary combined meeting held on 18th January 1773 (p. 350)

Absent : The elders Messrs. J.E. Jongbloed and J. van den Broek. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was specially convened in order to hold the necessary election of new elders and deacons. After first reading an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 15th January last, wherein it was observed that Mr. Paulus Menke, who had been recommended to the Government by the last resolution of this Consistory has been appointed as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ here on the salary of 24 guilders per month, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he I had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled two further letters, which, on being op and read, were found to be, the first of them from the Classis of Amsterdam forwarding the Synodal Acts of North Holland of the year 1770, and the other was from Batavia, containing their annual report on the state of the churches in the Netherlands Indies, and it was resolved to take the usual action on them. There also came in to our meeting the Rev. Johan Godfried Manger, who was sent over by the Supreme Government of the Indies for service as Predikant here, and as His Reverence was unable to present his credential which was still on board the ship along with his other belongings, he was however welcomed on behalf of this Consistory and given a seat in the Session with mutual cordial blessings. Proceeding thereafter to the principal business for the day, the President enquired whether any of the brother elders and deacons wished to be released on the expiry of their terms of office, and all the elders and deaocons who were present expressed such a desire; but the two brother elders who were present then agreed, on the urgent request of this meeting, to continue in office for a further period of a year, but the brother deacons could not be persuaded to do so, and they were therefore released from their duties on the expiry of their terms of office, and in their place, the following six persons were elected as Deacons by a majority vote out of the panel of nominations received: namely, Johan Hendrik Sezilles, Johan de Ridder, Jacob Doebbratsz, Jan Honter, Wilhelmus Staats and Johan Strobach, and it was accordingly resolved to notify the Government here of these elections and to solicit their approval of the same. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (president), H. Silvius ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: F.P. de Roock and Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 239

Ordinary meeting held on 29th March 1773 (p. 352)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius, J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz; Elders: D.J. Potken and F.P. de Roock; Deacons: J. Kriekenbeek, B. van Lier, L. Perera, H.D. Dias da Fonceka and J.G. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, pro tem [ pore ] President and Scriba , said that he had convened this meeting in order to conduct the normal business. Firstly, the Political Commissaris was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he replied in the negative. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the outgoing brother deacons were heartily thanked for their faithful services and the recently elected brother deacons were introduced to the meeting with God’s blessings. Thereafter, a notification regarding the handing over of the administration of the Diaconate and two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council which read as follows, were read and noted for necessary action, and the Rev. H. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Roock were delegated as Commissioners of this Consistory at the handing over of the administration of the Diaconate referred to above: Extract of a resolution of the Political Council on. Friday the 15th of January 1773 . ”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo on the 6th of this month was read, whereby the former Assistant Paulus Menken, who was found after prior examina- tion to be qualified for the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’, was appointed to the same by Their Reverences pending the approval of the Government; Whereupon, after due deliberation, it was resolved and decided hereby to appoint the said Paulus Menken as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ on the salary of 24 guilders per month attached to that post, and to place (i.e. station) him on the return ship ’Woestduin’, and it was also resolved to instruct the Church Consistory accordingly with an extract of these proceedings, and to say that they should only inform this Government whether he (Mr. Menken) is suitable (i.e. qualified) for this duty. (Below): Certified by F.J. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 18th February 1773. ”Having observed from a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 28th of November last that the 2nd Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Corinthians as well as his Epistle to the Galatians, which were translated into Sinhalese by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, has been revised by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz and found to be true and accurate, it was therefore resolved and decided to have the said two Epistles printed and published for the use of the Sinhalese Christians. On a second extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 18th of January, regarding the release on the expiry of their terms of office of the six presently offici- ating Deacons, and the election of the following six new Deacons in their place, namely: John Agathon Hendrik Sezilles, Johannes de Ridder, Jacobus Doebbratsz, Jan Honter, Wilhelmus Staats and Johan Christoph Strobach, it was resolved and decided after due deliberation, to approve of the installation (i.e. appointment) of the three firstnamed persons, and that three of the presently officiating deacons, namely: Messrs. Qualenbrink, da Fonceka and Gulden, should continue in office for a further period of a year, so that in the future not Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 240 more than three Deacons would be released every year. (Below): Certified by Dominicus Ida, Secretary.” As regards the booklet entitled ”Meditations, prayers and thanksgivings both before and after the service of Holy Communion”(Dutch: Meditatien, gebeden en dankzeggingen zo voor als na de bediening) by C. Drelingcourt, P. de Moulin and other godly persons, which has been translated into Tamil by the Proponent Jan Franciscus and submitted to His Excellency the Governor and handed over by His Excellency to the President for revision as usual, it was resolved to pass it on to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who undertook to revise it with the assistance of some persons who were capable in the Tamil language and to submit a report thereon to this Consistory. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder van den Broek. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and elder Mr. Potken. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Mr. De Roock. Finally, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Silvius and Fybrandsz respectively; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje ( pro tem [ pore ] President and Scriba ); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and J. van den Broek; and the deacon J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on 7th April 1773 (p. 354)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders; D.J. Potken and J. van den Broek; and Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and J.C. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Whereupon, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting having been read and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that two ’ attestaties ’ were tabled by the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Silvius, which, along with the list of names of those who had made their Confession of Faith, were noted for due registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the members of this Consistory or against any of the other members of the congregation, except in regard to the habitual drunkenness of the Dutch and the Sinhalese schoolmasters in the Seminary, Messrs. Brouwer and Rodrigo; whereupon it was resolved that the former should be spoken to by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Jongbloed, and the latter by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and warned to conduct themselves better. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Silvius, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and Jongbloed and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Gulden; and that in the outer Church (Wolvendaal) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the same bretheren; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum, which was done by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken according to the roster, was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Silvius (President); Elders: J.E. Jongbloed and P.P. de Roock; Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink, J. Doebbratsz, J. de Ridder and J.A.Sezilles. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 241

Ordinary meeting held on 21st June 1773 (p. 355)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz and the deacon: J.C. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the following extracts were read out:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Tuesday the 1st June 1773 . ”On the proposal of His Excellency the Governor, it was resolved and decided to call (i.e. appoint) the Rev. Predikant Godfried Manger, who had recently arrived here from Batavia on the ship ’Schagen’, who is now busy studying the Sinhalese language, as Minister for the Dutch congregation of Colombo. Certified by: M. Mekern, Secretary. ” The Rev. President thereupon heartily welcomed the Rev. Mr. Manger, and the Rev. Mr. Silvius relinquished the office of President for the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz (who was absent), and the Rev. Mr. Manger took over the office of Scriba . The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and elder Mr. Jongbloed. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and elder Mr. van den Broek. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Potken. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that the booklet entitled Meditations, prayers and thanksgivings before and after the service of Holy Communion has been revised by certain learned persons and was found to be in order, and it was accordingly thereupon decided to request the approval of the Government to have it printed and published. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had ministered at Nagamuwa and Cotta, and also translated into Sinhalese the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians and Colossians, which were handed over for revision by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz. The Rev. Mr. Manger requested the permission of the Consistory to preach, as soon as he is ready to do so, on Wednesday evenings, in order chiefly to gain experience in the High German language, and his request was allowed, and it was resolved, to send an extract of these proceedings to the Government. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius, J.G. Manger, W.J. Ondaatje; and the Deacon J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on ... (The date is not entered in these minutes) (p. 356)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz, W.J. Ondaatje and H. Philipsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Thereupon, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The President complained to the Consistory of the imprudent behaviour towards him of the schoolmaster Mr. Lasshome, and it was decided to give him a severe warning thereover. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were read out and accepted for regis- tration. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 242

The service of Holy Communion (in the Fort Church) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs De Roock and van den Broek and the deacons Messrs. van Lier and Doebbratsz, and as none of the bretheren were present it was not possible to make a decision in regard to the service at the Wolvendaal Church; and there being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius and J.G. Manger; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed, P.P. de Roock and J. van den Broeck; Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink and J. Doebbratsz.

Extraordinary meeting held on 1st August 1773 (p. 357)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: D.J. Potken and P.P. de Roock; and the Deacon: J.C. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, a letter received from the Fatherland was read, and also a letter written from here to the Consistory at Batavia. The request of the Rev. Mr. Manger to be permitted to have High German hymns printed and sung for edification in High German was allowed; and it was also resolved that the child named Andries Sukkard, whose name was forgotten to be (altered in the baptism register be registered (Dutch: immatriculeeren). There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), the Rev. H. Silvius; and the deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Extraordinary meeting held on 6th September 1773 (p. 358)

(No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). The President having opened the meeting with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the two ’ Krankbezoekers ’ Messrs. Myer and van Meerten were called in, and after due examination, it was unanimously decided to appoint the latter for Church duties here, and it was resolved to forward an extract of these proceedings to the Government. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.G. Manger ( Scriba ) and Rev. H. Silvius.

Ordinary meeting held on 20th September 1773 (p. 359)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz and H. Philipsz; Elders: D.J. Potken, J.E. Jongbloed and J. van den Broeck; Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and J.C. Gulden. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Hereupon, the outstanding minutes of the previous meetings were read and signed by the bretheren who were present, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Ondaatje respectively, and the Scriba was directed to Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 243

forward to the Government an extract of the proceedings regarding the examination of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - The 1st block - the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and elder F.P. de Roock. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. The Old City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. van den Broeck. The elder Mr. de Roock, who came in after the termination of the meeting was penalised in the usual fine. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); and the Deacon: J.J. Qualenbrink.

Censura Morum held on 29th September 1773 (p. 360)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz, Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacon: J. de Ridder. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Whereupon, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The names of the newly-admitted Church members and of those who had come in with their ’ attestaties ’ were handed over to the Scriba for due registration. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. Jongbloed and Potken and the deacons Messrs. Sezilles and de Ridder; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had visited the adjacent coast of Tutucorin and the outposts of Panadura and Kalutara; and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje likewise reported that he had ministered at the outposts of Dandagamuwa, Negombo and Chilaw; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was to be done on the next occasion by the Rev. Mr. Silvius and the elder Mr. de Roock. Finally, on the enquiry being made as to who should be deputed to prepare the letters to Patria etc., and what matters should be mentioned in them, the meeting resolved that it should be done by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz as it was his turn to do so, and that the letters received should be appropriately answered and mention made of the progress made by the more zealous Predikants and ’ Krankbezoeker ’. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.E. Jongbloed; and the deacons: J. Doebbratsz and J.A. Sezilles.

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1774 (p. 361)

(No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 244

approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively. Two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council were then tabled, which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 10th December 1773. ”On the proposal of His Excellency the Governor it was resolved and decided to call (i.e. appoint) the Rev. Albertus Lieftink, who had recently arrived here from Batavia on the ship ”T huis ter Mye” as Minister of the Dutch congregation at Jaffna. (Below): Certified by; W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 10th December 1773 . ”On the report of the School Board, it was resolved and decided that the student in the Seminary named Johannes de Silva be examined by the Church Consistory to ascertain whether he possesses a sufficient knowledge of the fundamentals of the Reformed Religion and other qualifications for promotion as a Proponent . (Below); Certified by W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” The contents of the first extract were noted for necessary action, and in compliance with the directions received in the second extract, after enquiring around the meeting, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz was nominated to examine the student mentioned therein. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st. block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. The 2nd. block - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Roock. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. Thereafter, on the enquiry of the President whether any of the bretheren had any further matters to bring up, the elders and deacons who were present orally, and the absent brother elder Potken through the Rev. Mr. Manger, requested to be released on the expiry of their terms of office; and their requests were allowed. Proceeding then to nominate and elect new elders and deacons: in place of the brother elders Potken, Jongbloed, de Roock and van den Broeck, out of a panel of eight nomina- tions received, the following were elected as Elders by majority of vote: the Merchant and Chief Warehousekeeper C. de Kock, the merchant and Trade Bookkeeper J. de Bordes, the Merchant and Chief Auditor Daniel de Bok and the Junior Merchant and Superintendent of the Iron Stores J. de Vos; and similarly, in place of the three outgoing deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink, da Fonceka and Gulden, out of a panel of six nominations received, the follow- ing were elected by majority of vote as Deacons of this City: the Bookkeepers Hartenberg, Johan Strobach and Wilhelmus Staats; and it was resolved to report accordingly with an extract of these proceedings to the Government for the favour of their approval. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz presented his Sinhalese translations of the Epistles of the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians, to Timothy, to Titus, to Philemon and to the Hebrews, the revision of which was again entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz with the assistance of the Mohottiaar Abraham Philipsz, and it was also resolved to inform His Excellency the Governor of the same with an extract of these proceedings. Two further extracts of letters from Batavia to Colombo dated the 14th of June 1773 and the 19th of August 1773, and also two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council of the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 245

13th of August and the 8th of October 1773, which had already been circulated to members, are recorded hereunder:- Extract of a Circular letter from Their Excellencies at Batavia to Colombo dated 14th June 1773. ”While we, along with this, send Your Excellency herewith some copies of the amended Order of Intercessory Prayer for use in the Churches, to be forwarded to the Church Consis- tory over there for their information and due compliance” (Below): Certified by W.Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a letter dated 19th August 1773 from Batavia to Colombo . ”In regard to religion: we have with the greatest satisfaction noted that the Predikant Mr. Philipsz had translated into Sinhalese the Epistles of the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians and to the Galatians, and that he is also busily engaged in translating the remainder of the Canonical books of the Mew Testament, to which work we hope and wish that His Reverence will give his earliest attention in order to achieve that laudable aim; while at the same time, we have called (i.e. appointed) the Predikant who has recently arrived here from the Netherlands, the Rev. Albertus Lieftink, on the 14th of June, to minister the Gospel there by W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 8th October 1773. ”Having observed from an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo that Their Reverences have chosen the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Adrianus van Meerten as the more qualified of the two ’ Krankbezoeker ’ who arrived here this year for Church work, it was therefore resolved and decided hereby to approve the said appointment, since the ’ Voorlezer ’ of the Castle Mr. de Reus is unfitvand can do no work and the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. de Mey, who now performs the duty of ’ Voorlezer ’ is much advanced in years, and that the services of another ’ Krankbezoeker ’ are very necessary. (Below); Certified by: W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); and the elder J.E. Jongbloed.

Censura Morum held on 12th January 1774 (p. 364)

Absent : The Rev. H. Silvius; Elders: D.J. Potken, F.P. de Roock, J. van den Broeck; Deacons: J.J. Qualenbrink, J.C. Gulden, H.D. Dias da Fonceka and J. van Ridder. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Firstly, the minutes of the previous were approved and signed, and the bretheren who, had done the house visits said that they, had nothing special to report, and the names of the newly-elected Church members and two ’ attestaties ’ that were tabled were passed on to the Scriba for enrolment. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Roock and van den Broeck and the deacons Messrs. Qualenbrink and Gulden; and that in the Wolvendaal Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the same bretheren; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was allotted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the elder Mr. Jongbloed. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 246

As regards the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that in the month of December ha had received a request from Kalutara to postpone his visit there as the old framework of the Church had been removed; and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje too said that he had not been able to visit the outposts entrusted to him; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta but could not do so at Nagamuwa owing to illness. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any of the members of this Consistory or against any of the members of our Church, except in respect of the persistent improper and offensive behaviour of the Rev. Mr. Silvius, who even recently, prior to his departure for Galle, no notice of which had been given by him to this Consistory, has conducted himself improperly; however, in order that he may be further notified of the same, and that a definite decision may be made thereon, this matter was put off for the next Censura Morum meeting, and the bretheren were meanwhile advised to make certain of the facts regarding his conduct. There being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), J.J. Fybrandsz, J.G. Manger; and Deacons: J. Doebbratsz and J.A. Sezilles.

Extraordinary meeting held on 21st February 1774 (p. 365)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. H. Silvius, J.G. Manger; Elders: D.J. Potken, J.E. Jongbloed, F.P. de Roock, J. van den Broeck; Deacons; J.J. Qualenbrink, H.D. Dias da Fonceka, J.C. Gulden and J. Doebbratsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to examine the student Johannes de Silva, in accordance with the decision at the session of the 3rd of January. Before doing SO however, the President tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on 28th January l774. ”Having observed from a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 3rd of this month that the Merchants Cornelis de Cock, Jacobus de Bordes and Daniel de Bock and the Junior Merchant Johannes de Vos have been elected as elders, and that the bookkeepers Isaac Hertenberg, Johannes Christoffel Strobach and Jacobus Wilhelmus Staats have been elected as Deacons, it was accordingly resolved and decided, on the Circular proposal of His Excellency the Governor, to approve the same. (Below): Certified by J.C. Franchimont.” This was noted for necessary action as usual. The student Johannes de Silva was then called in, and he firstly gave a short discourse on the first part of the text in John 6, verse 5, and he was thereafter examined in the fundamentals of natural and revealed Theology, which lasted for some time, and on soliciting the opinions of the members of this Consistory, who considered that the test was adequate, the President asked the candidate to remain outside, and on his soliciting Their Reverences’ opinions on the examination and whether the student had fared sufficiently well at the test to be appointed to the grade of country (lit: native) Proponent . Their Reverences unanimously confirmed that he was sufficiently qualified to preach the Gospel along with the other Proponents ; Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 247

Whereupon it was decided to report accordingly to the Government with an extract of these proceedings and to recommend him for the same. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ) and J.J. Fybrandsz.

Ordinary meeting held on 21st March 1774 (p. 367)

Absent : The Revs. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz (on commission); Elders: D.J. Potken, F.P. de Roock, J. Jongbloed, J. van den Broeck; Deacons; J.J. Qualenbrink, J.A. Sezilles, H.D. da Fonceka and J.W. Staats. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion; where- upon, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the recently installed brother elders and deacons were introduced with the blessings of the Consistory, and the outgoing brother dea- con Mr. Gulden, who was the only one present, was heartily thanked for his faithful services. The office of Scriba was then handed over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, took over the duties of President until the return of His Reverence. Thereafter, the President tabled a letter, which, on being opened, was found to be from Amsterdam, dated 12th January 1773, forwarding the Synodal Acts held there on the 28th of July 1772; which was noted for necessary action as usual. The President also tabled a notification regarding the handing-over of the administration of the Diaconate, which was noted for due compliance, and the brother elders Messrs de Roock and de Vos were nominated to be present at the same. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Cock. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder de Bock. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Jongbloed: this was noted, and this duty was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Hanger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes, D. de Bock and J. de Vos; and Deacon: J. de Ridder.

Censura Morum held on 30th March 1774 (p. 369)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz and the deacon I. Hertenberg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the reading, approving and signing of the minutes of the previous meeting of the Censura Morum, the President tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council which read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on the 6th of March 1774. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 248

”An extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 21st February was read, reporting that in compliance with the resolution of this Council of 10th December 1773, the student Johannes de Silva was examined and found to be qualified for appointment as Proponent ; it was therefore resolved and decided hereby to appoint the said Johannes de Silva as country (lit: native) Proponent on the salary of 10 rixdollars per month. (Below); Certified by: F.J. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” This was noted for information and due compliance, and the said Proponent was called in and informed accordingly, and earnestly reminded of his responsibility and the sad conse- quences of its neglect. Thereafter, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs, do Cock and de Bordes and the deacons Messrs. Doebbratsz and de Ridder; and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrused to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any members of this Consistory or against any members of the congregation, except the disturb- ing rumour about the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Solly, and the behaviour of the Rev. Mr. Silvius which has already been mentioned at the previous Censura Morum meeting; whereupon it was resolved that the latter case be allowed to remain in statu quo , and as regards the former that he (Mr. Solly) should be informed through the Sexton and told that he must cease to perform his duties and also abstain from participation at Holy Communion. Finally, the Rev. Manger reported that he had visited the congregation at Tutucorin, and had found them to be living in peace and goodwill. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes, D. de Bok, J. de Vos: Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, J. de Ridder and J.C. Strobach.

Ordinary meeting held on 20th June 1774 (p. 371)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes; Deacon: J. Doebbratsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President tabled the following extract of a resolution of the Political Council:- Extract of a Political Council resolution of Ceylon on 9th April 1774 . ”A letter from the Predikant Mr. Ondaatje was read, requesting that the first book of Moses named Genesis, which he had translated into the Tamil language, be sent for revision by capable persons and be thereafter printed and published for the use of the native Christians; and having deliberated thereover, it was resolved and decided to entrust the revision of the same to the Rev. Mr. Melho of Jaffna, and that one or two schoolmasters or other learned persons there who may be deemed to be qualified for this task be appointed to assist His Reverence in the work; and it was resolved at the same time to convey to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje the appreciation of this Government over his undertaking this important work and over His Reverence’s intention to pursue further in the translation of the Old. Testament so far as his duties would permit him to do so. Certified by: F.J. Billing, 1st. sworn clerk.” Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 249

This was noted for information, and the minutes of the previous meeting were then read and approved and signed: and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively. The Rev. Mr. Manger reported that he had ministered at the Leper Asylum with the elders Mr. de Cock, and this duty was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Bordes. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported to the meeting that he had ministered at Kalutara and Panadura in April; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had done so at Cotta. Finally, it was resolved to submit the request of the Sexton Mr. Stoll to His Excellency the Governor with an extract of these proceedings; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: D. de Bock; Deacons: Messrs. J. de Ridder and J.A. Sezilles.

Censura Morum held on 29th June 1774 (p. 372)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the names of the newly-admitted Church members were handed over to the Scriba for enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the members of this Consistory or against any of the members of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Bock and de Vos; and that in the Outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assist by the same bretheren. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to Clod. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz; Elders: C. de Cock, D. de Bock; Deacons; J.A. Sezilles and J.C. Strobach.

Extraordinary meeting held on 1st August 1774 (p. 373)

(n.b. The names of absentees are not entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President tabled a letter from the Classis of Delft, which was read, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz again tabled at the meeting a further portion of his translation of the Mew Testament, which was passed on to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz for revision; and there being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President); Elders: J. de Bordes and D. de Bock; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, J. de Ridder and J.A. Sezilles. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 250

Ordinary meeting held on 19th September 1774 (p. 374)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger and H. Philipsz; Elders: Messrs. C. de Cock. and J. de Vos. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was incon- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and Signed: and. the letters received from the Fatherland and the extracts received from the Political Council, which were circulated, were tabled, the former of which was noted for necessary notion, and the latter read as follows:- Extract of a letter dated 8th July 1774 from Batavia to Colombo . ”Referring to matters of religion: we note with the greatest satisfaction that the Rev. Mr. Manger has, in addition to his normal preaching turns in Dutch, also preached in High German on Wednesday evenings, and also applies himself to the study of the Sinhalese language, and we wish and pray that his human efforts to spread the Gospel of Salvation may be blessed in every way and crowned with all success.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Saturday the 9th of April 1774 . (n.b. This is the same extract that was tabled at the Ordinary Meeting held on 20th June 1774 [see above]). The offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Ondaatje respectively; and on the enquiry being made as to who should be deputed to prepare the letters to the Fatherland and what matters should be mentioned in them, it was resolved that this should be done by the Rev. Mr. Manger in the usual form. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Bock. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Cock. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Kalutara and Panadura, and the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje said that he had done so at Kalpitiya, Chilaw, Negombo and Dandagamuwa and also at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. de Vos, who acted in placed of Mr. de Bordes, and this duty was entrusted on the present occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bock; whereafter the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Bordes and D. de Bock; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, J. de Ridder and J.A. Sezilles.

Censura Morum held on 28th September 1774 (p. 375)

Absent : Elders: J. de Bordes and J. de Vos; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, I. Hertenberg and J. de Ridder. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the visual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and an ’attestatie’ Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 251

which was tabled, along with a list of the names of the newly-admitted Church members, were read and handed over to the Scriba for enrolment; and a request from Mr. Borwater (Jnr.) to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion was granted on the condition of his making his Confession of Faith or undergoing a brief examination; and the President and the Scriba and the elder Mr. de Bock were delegated to make investigations regarding the conduct of a woman (lit: free woman) who is a member of the Church belonging to the household of the Hon. Dessava de Coste; and the ’ attestaties ’ of two ’ Krankbezoeker ’ who were due for repatriation were handed over to the Scriba to be scrutinised, signed renewed by him. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any of the members of this Consistory or against any of the members of the congregation, but everything was found to be peaceful and in good order. As regards the forthcoming services of Holy Communion, the service in the inner (Fort) Church was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, it being his turn to do so, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Cock and de Bordes, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had ministered at the outposts entrusted to him; and the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President) and H. Philipsz; Elders: D. de Bok; Deacons: J.A. Sezilles, J. Doebbratsz and J.W. Staats.

Ordinary meeting held on 5th January 1775 (p. 376)

Absent : The Political Commissaris and the Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer and the signing of the minutes of the previous meeting, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz respectively. The notification regarding the recently-held Day of Prayer, and two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council, one containing the call (i.e. appointment) of the Rev. Mr. Silvius to Galle, and the other the gratification of the new Psalm book etc, were circulated among the bretheren, the former of which is filed as an annexe hereto, and the latter which is incorporated here and read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 8th July 1774 . ”The officials at Galle, in their letter of the 4th of this month, having forwarded an extract of a resolution of the Galle Consistory of the 25th of June, containing a request that the Predikant Mr. Silvius, in view of the satisfaction which ha has given to the congregation, may be called (i.e. appointed) to Galle in support of their request, it was accordingly resolved and decided to call (i.e. appoint) the Rev. Mr. Silvius to Galle. (Below): Certified by W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Friday the 12th December 1774 . ”It was resolved and decided that the ryhmed version of the Psalms which was recently revised in the year 1773 on the orders of Their High Mightinesses the States General of the Netherlands and was re-printed here from the copy printed and. published at Leiden by C. van Hogeveen, be ratified (lit: authenticated) by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, who has revised Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 252 the printed proofs of the same, with authority for His Reverence to sign (lit: certify) each of the newly-printed copies before they are given out; and that the printed copies, which amount to 140 only on account of the lack of printing paper, be issued for the use of the Dutch congregation of Colombo. (Below): Certified by W. Billing, 1st sworn clerk.” This was noted for due compliance, and it was resolved to introduce (i.e. use) them as they as they are ready (i.e. become available). The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Vos. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The old City and its suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Bok. The report of the Scriba of this Consistory and the elder Mr. de Bok that the former had administered Holy Communion at Cotta and that he will shortly proceed to Nagamuwa for this purpose, and that the latter had assisted the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz in the administration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum, was noted, and this latter duty was entrusted on the present occasion to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Vos. The outposts of Kalutara and Panadura were also ministered to by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Further, on the enquiry being made by the President whether the bretheren had any other comments to make, the brother Deacons whose terms of office had expired requested to be released, which request was acceded to by the meeting; and in place of the two outgoing Deacons Johannes de Ridder and Jacob Doebbratsz, since the third agreed to continue in office for a further period, the following were elected as Deacons by a majority of vote: namely, the Junior Merchant Johan Jacob Gilbert and the bookkeeper Frederich Bernhard Giffenig; and it was resolved to inform the Government of these elections along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. Further, the bretheren having taken into consideration that the ’ Voorlezer ’ of the Dutch Church Adrianus van Meerten, who, on account of the prolonged illness of his colleague Fredrik de Reus has for some length of time performed the duties in the said Church alone by himself, and has on more than occasion applied to this Consistory requesting that he may be given an increase in his moans of subsistence, and that the said Mr. de Reus, although he does no work at all, still enjoys his full, a part of which he could well afford to miss since his household expenses would not be so heavy (lit: burdened) in view of the death of his wife; it was therefore resolved, in view of the circumstances set out above, to recommend his (Mr. Meerten’s) request to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings, with a request that he be accommodated in some way or other. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J. de Bordes, D. de Bock and J. de Vos; and the Deacon: J.A. Sezilles.

Censura Morum held on 11th January 1775 (p. 378)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Ondaatje; Elders: D. de Cock and J. de Bordes; and the Deacon: J. Doebbratsz. In the absence of the President, the meeting having been opened with prayer by the Scriba , he said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 253

Before doing so, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the bertheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and three Church ’ attestaties ’ which were tabled were handed over to the Scriba for enrolment. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation, which must be chiefly attributed to the diligent practice of public worship. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Bok and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Doebbratsz and da Ridder, and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Among those who had requests to make, there came in the free woman referred to at the last meeting of the Censura Morum, who informed this meeting that s he greatly longed to participate at Holy Communion, whereupon she was told to apply to the Rev. Mr. Manger. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: D. de Bok and J. de Vos; and Deacons: J.A. Sezilles, J.C. Strobach and J.W. Staats.

Extraordinary meeting held on 21st January 1775 (p. 379)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: D. de Kok and J. de Bordes. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to approve, sign and seal the letters to Patria which were now ready. The Political Commissaris having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the said letters were carefully scrutinised, signed and sealed, and handed over to the President and the Scriba to be sent to His Excellency the Governor for transmission to the Netherlands; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (President) and J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders; D. de Bok and J. de Vos; and the Deacon: J.A. Sezilles.

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd April 1775 (p. 380)

Absent : Elder: D. de Cock; Deacons; J. Doebbratsz and J. de Ridder. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that the meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion; where- upon, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. Hereafter, the outgoing President reported that the new rhymed books of the Psalms were received; which was duly noted. Further, the President tabled a letter from the Chamber of Zeeland, which was to be filed with the inward correspondence, and also an extract of a resolution of the Political Council and an Order of Intercession for the authorities, both of which were duly noted for compliance, and the extract read as follows:- Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 254

Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Thursday the 26th January 1775. ”Having observed from an extract of a resolution of the Church Consistory of Colombo of the 5th instant that the Junior Merchant Johan Jacob Gilbert and the bookkeeper Frederik Bernhard Giffenig have been elected as Deacons of this City in place of the bookkeepers Jacobus Doebbratsz and Johannes de Ridder who have been released, it was resolved and decided to approve the same. In the same resolution the Church Consistory has recommended the ’ Voorlezer ’ of the Dutch Church Adrianus van Meerten for an increase in his emoluments in view of the fact that, although he performs the duties of ’ Voorlezer ’ alone by himself but enjoys, only 24 guilders as salary with guilders 7.13.8 as subsistence allowance and 4 rixdollars as house rent, wheras the real ’ Voorlezer ’ Frederik de Reus, who has not been able to do any work at all for some time on account of his illness has nevertheless hitherto enjoyed the full emoluments of ’ Voorlezer ’ of 36 guilders as salary with 4 rixdollars as house rent and guilders 11.10.6 as subsistence allowance and 4 cans of wine although he could now manage with something less as he will need less for his household expenses in view of the death of his wife; and having deliberated thereover, it was therefore hereby resolved and decided that the ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. van Meerten be paid guilders 11.18.0 instead of guilders 7.13.8 as subsistence allowance with 4 cans of wine, and against this, that the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. de Reus be paid the subsistence allowance of the former, namely guilders 7.13.8. (Below): Certified by: F.J. Billing, 1st. sworn clerk.” Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st block - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The 2nd block - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder J. de Vos. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder J. de Bordes. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the outposts allotted to him, and the Rev. Mr. Mayer too said that he had done so at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. de Vos: this was noted, and the latter duty was entrusted on the present occasion to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Cock; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President); W.J. Ondaatje, and J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Bordes, D. de Bok and J. de Vos; and the deacon: I. Hertenberg.

Censura Morum held on 12th April 1775 (p. 382)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: C. de Cock; Deacon: I. Hertenberg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, after which the newly-installed deacons were introduced with God’s blessings, and the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed. Thereafter, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that the Rev. Mr. Manger tabled two ’ attestaties ’ from the son and the daughter of Mr. Leembruggen, which, along with the names of those who had declared their Confession of Faith were handed over for enrolment, and it was at the same time decided that the members should in the future be received (i.e. admitted) by the President. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 255

Further, requests from Jacobus Cornelis van Sprang and his wife, Mrs. Bisschop, the Assistant Mr. Smit and his wife, the wife of Mr. Schnefus and the widow Mrs. Fransz to be admitted as guests at Holy Communion were allowed. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Cock and de Bordes and the deacons Messrs. Hertenberg and Strobach; and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted also to the Rev. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren. Whereafter, the Rev. Mr. Manger reported that he had preached in Sinhalese for the first time in the Wolvendaal Church on the 5th of March last, and that the Rev. Mr. Philipsz was also present among the congregation, which 9 meeting noted with great joy and decided to inform the Government of long with an extract of these proceedings. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the beginning of this month at Kalutara and Panadura; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had done so at Cotta and that he would be doing so at Nagamuwa during the next fortnight; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The. Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President pro tem [ pore ]); Elders: J. de Bordes, D. de Bok and J. de Vos; Deacons: J.C. Strobach, J.W. Staats, J.A. Sezilles and F.B. Giffenig.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 27th of April 1775 (p. 384)

Absent : Elder: J. de Vos, and Deacon: J.C. Strobach. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in view of a letter which he had received, which on being opened was found to be from Jaffna, from the Predikant there the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, containing certain complaints about the behaviour of the Commandeur Mr. Rose towards His Reverence; whereupon it was resolved to submit this letter along with the extracts annexed thereto to His Excellency the Governor for his perusal, with a request since we may appear to be partial to (lit: take the side only of) the Rev. Mr. Lieftink and therefore feel obliged to reserve our opinions thereon that the matter be decided by His Excellency according to his usually wide judgment and discretion, so that the establishment (i.e. administration) of God’s congregation there may be maintained with progress and also that t he authority (i.e. rights) of the Churches, which appear to be undermined, may be upheld (i.e. maintained). The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje, J.G. Manger; Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes, D. de Bok; and the Deacon: I. Hertenberg.

Ordinary meeting held on 19th June 1775 (p. 385)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger (on circuit); Deacon: J.A. Sezilles (on official duty). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 256

Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council along with the documents of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, which extract read as follows:- Extract of a resolution of the Political Council of Ceylon on Wednesday the 17th May 1775 . ”It was, resolved and decided to return to Their Reverences the aforementioned documents of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink received from the Church Consistory after the Secretary has taken certified copies of them, and to postpone the decision (lit: disposal) thereon until such time as the proofs promied by the officials at Jaffna concerning the Rev. Mr. Lieftink are received. (Below): Certified by Dominicus Ide, sworn clerk.” This was duly noted; and the minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and that of Scriba by the latter to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. Thereafter, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Mr. de Bordes. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Bok. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported to the meeting that he had completed the work which he had undertaken of translating the New Testament into the Sinhalese language, and he handed over to the meeting the 1st Epistle of the Apostle St. John from Chapter 3 to the end of the Revelations of St. John, which it was resolved to pass on as usual to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz for revision with the assistance of the Mohottiaar and for transmission thereafter to the Printer; and it was decided to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs, J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes, D. de Bok and J. de Vos; and the Deacon J.C. Strobach.

Censura Morum held on 27th June 1775 (p. 386)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on duty), J.G. Manger (on circuit); Deacons: J.J. Gilbert and I. Hertenberg (on official duties). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum and to open three letters which were received. Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the letters were opened, and the first letter was from the Classis of Amsterdam dated 11th April 1774, containing the Synodal Acts of North Holland held at Hoorn in the year 1773, beginning on the 27th of July and ending on the 5th of August; the second letter and an extract of a letter were from Jaffna, dated the 5th of June 1775, from the Rev. Mr. Lieftink. The meeting decided to take the usual action on the first letter. Regarding the letter from the Rev. Mr. Lieftink and the extract of a letter, it was resolved and decided to submit the same to the Government like the earlier document dealt with at the session on the 27th of April last for their perusal and to await their orders thereon. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 257

Thereafter, the Political Commissaris was led out of the meeting by the Scriba , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. Proceeding then to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received against any member of this Consistory or again any member of the congregation. The names of two persons who were admitted as Church members were handed over to the Scriba for enrolment. The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. de Cock and admitted one new member; and this duty was entrusted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrands and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Bok and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Sezilles and Staats; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (president), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Bordes, D. de Bok and J. de Vos; Deacons: J.C. Strobach and J.W. Staats.

Extraordinary meeting held on 4th August 1775 (p. 387)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on circuit); Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes, J. de Vos; and Deacon: I. Hertenberg. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in view of two extracts which he had received from the Political Council. The Political Commissaris who was then asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the extracts from the Political Council were read and found to be as follows:- The first, dated 4th of June last, containing a commendation (Text: ’Louange’) for the Rev. Mr. Philipsz on his completing the work on the Sinhalese translations of the New Testament, with an expression of the special appreciation of the Government. The second, dated the 14th of June last, was a disposition (or opinion) regarding the case of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, and the return of His Reverence’s letter and the extract of a letter from Colombo to Jaffna and an extract of the resolution of this Consistory of the 27th of June last. Whereupon, they were all duly noted, and in regard to the Rev. Mr. Lieftink’s allegations against the Commandant and Mrs. Rose and against the Rev. Mr. Manger (in so far as they may be considered to be purely Church matters), it was resolved that it be generally allowed to remain in statu quo in view of the departure of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink to Batavia, and in view of the favourable testimony (i.e. evidence) of the Rev. Mr. Manger which came in in the meanwhile regarding the Honourable Commandant Rose and his wife, while no reflection is cast on the person of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink and his gravamen (note: a legal term, meaning ’complaint’) which was made without adequate proof; Although this Consistory would rather, on a future occasion (lit: opportunity) wish to obtain clarification as to the grounds on which the Consistory of Jaffna deemed the grievances of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink against the Honourable Commandant Mr. Rose to be ”most reasonable and genuine” at Their Reverences’ Ordinary and Censura Morum meetings held on the 7th of April last without even giving an opportunity to the Rev. Mr. Manger, when Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 258

they had the means of doing so during his (Mr. Manger’s) recent special presence there; and the allegations made by the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, which he vaguely insinuated against the Rev. Mr. Manger, were considered to be specially distasteful (lit: abominable) and caused much offence and distress to this Consistory; Thereupon, the Rev. Mr. Manger presented two testimonials which read as follows:- ”The undersigned Commandant of this Jaffna Commandement and all the members of the Political Council of this Commandement do witness hereby that it is sincerely true that the Rev. Predikant Johs. Godefredus Manger, during his stay here in Jaffna, preached the Word of God simply, clearly, understandably and purely, and administered the Sacraments with extraordinary zeal, and has thereby wholly and apparently also stirred and edified the entire congregation; and that His Reverence has also confirmed the sincerity of his preaching by his own good conduct and behaviour in every way, avoiding all annoyances (i.e. offence or vexation) and. abundantly done his best in every way to bring about (i.e. create) love and goodwill and to maintain what may truly be expected of a godly and zealous Minister; wherefore we hereby, both on behalf of ourselves as well as on behalf of the entire congregation, thank His Reverence most heartily and sincerely wish him all health and prosperity and God’s richest blessings in the future, on his return journey to Colombo. Jaffna 24th July 1775. (Signed): Chr. Rose, Joh. Herthum, J.B. van Coeverden, J.B. Tyken, L. van der Spar, J. Panneel, Carl Fred. Schreuder, A.E. Lebeck and G. Mooyaart.” ”To whom it may concern (latin: L.B.S. - meaning) We, the undersigned members of the Jaffna Church Consistory, cannot neglect the duty of furnishing the Rev. Js. G. Manger, on his departure for Colombo, with a testimonial (attes- tatie) regarding his conduct and his work here, as we now hereby testify, that His Reverence, during his stay here, has faithfully and zealously performed his duties as a Minister, for the advancement (as far as human weaknesses permit) of God’s glory, for instruction in the ways and means of Salvation, and for the edification of this congregation; and likewise too in His Reverence’s civil conduct and behaviour he has done nothing that is improper, vexatious or unbecoming (i.e. contrary to) of what the congregation entrusted to his care nay expect of a good and faithful Minister; and in the existing sad circumstances in Jaffna in respect of the ministry of God’s Word and the administration of the Sacraments, His Reverence has done nothing to annoy or offend his fellow-bretheren or given occasion for any signs of discord. We wish His Reverence and all who may read this the blessings and protection of God. (Below): Jaffna the 21st of July 1775. (Signed): J. van der Spar, J.H. Verhagen, J. Koets, Joh. Garnier, Chr. Ger. Saldfeld.” (In the margin): L.S. Whereupon it was resolved to make copies of both these testimonials ( attestaties ) from Jaffna which were produced by the Rev. Mr. Manger, and to forward them to the Govern- ment, with an extract of these proceedings, and to request them (as we now hereby request) to kindly send them to Batavia along with the other documents of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink. In order to prove most clearly (lit: in clear proof of) the equity (i.e. justice) of the case of the Rev. Mr. Manger, and the excessive temperament (lit: passion) and malice on the part of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink towards his colleague, who is greatly loved by this Consistory and the congregation here, and in order that his honour may not be. doubted or belittled by the action of the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje further asked the members to consider whether it would not be advisable, for the more expeditious (lit: speedy) edification of the Tamil congregation here, that he suspends the work of translation of the Old Testament Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 259 into that language (which could not be proceeded with as expected owing to his numerous engagements) and take up instead the revision, according to Church practice, of the Tamil version of the Old Testament published at Tranquebar in the year 1723, and thereafter send it to the Press with the approval of the Government. This proposal of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje was considered to be most beneficial for the Tamil congregation here, and for a more speedy edification of this community than that which could be achieved by the translation that has already been undertaken if, for instance, the Old Testament version which was published at Tranquebar in the year 1723 could be revised according to Church practice; and the meeting accordingly nominated the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, as far as his duties would permit him to do so, to undertake this revision, and the country-preacher Jan Franciscus and the former Mudaliyar Christopher Farnando and the Tamil schoolmaster of the Seminary Franciscus Paulus were deputed to assist him; and it was also resolved hereby to submit the same for the approval of our Government. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), W.J. Ondaatje ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elder: D. de Bocj; Deacon: J.C. Strobach.

Extraordinary meeting of 18th September 1775 (p. 390)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Ondaatje and Philipsz (indisposed); Elders: J. de Bordes and D. De Bok; Deacons: I. Hertenberg and J.A. Sezilles. The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, an extract of a resolution was read, which was duly noted, and the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed. While the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz continued to officiate as President, the office of Scriba was taken over by the Rev. Mr. Manger, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and elder de Vos. The old City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: C. de. Cock and J. de Vos; Deacon: J.C. Strobach.

Censura Morum held on 27th September 1775 (p. 391)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje, F. Philipsz; Elders: C. de Cock, J. de Bordes; Deacons: I. Hertenberg, J.A. Sezilles and F.B. Giffenig. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and three persons were admitted as Church members on the declaration of their Confession of Faith. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: everything was found to be in order, and the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, with the assistance of the elders Messrs de Cock and de Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 260

Bordes and the deacons Messrs. Gilbert and Giffenig, and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy. Communion at Kalu- tara and Panadura and. at the Leper Asylum, and the latter duty was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Bok on the next occasion. The preparation of the letters to the Fatherland was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders; C. de Bock and J. de Vos.

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1776 (p. 392)

Absent : Elder J. de Vos. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and at the same time tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council regarding the exchange of duties of the ’ Voorlezer ’ of the Castle (Fort) Church Adrianus van Meerten with the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of the supply ship ’Oude Haarlem’, who had recently arrived here, Mr. Hubregt La Kroix. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and signed, and the offices of President and of Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively. There then came in, in the following order (lit: one after the other), Messrs. Adrianus van Meerten and Hubert La Kroix referred to above, the former of whom requested this Consis- tory to furnish him with a favourable ’attestatie’ and a recommendation (i.e. testimonial), stating that it is his intention to proceed to the Fatherland to pursue his studies in Theology, which the Consistory acceded to provided his intentions materialise, and he was told at the same time that he could make his application to the Governor as to the rest of his plans; and the latter presented his credentials, which accepted were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The 1st and 2nd blocks - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. de Bok. The outer City and suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bor. Therafter the requests of the brother elders and deacons to be releas on the expiry of their terms of office were granted; and proceeding to the nomination and election of new elders and deacons, in place of the four outgoing elders, out of a panel of 8 nominations the following were elected as elders of this City, by a majority of vote, namely: The Up- per, Merchant Henricus Leembruggen, the Merchant Gerrit Engel Holst, the Captain Jean Brochier and the Junior Merchant Johannes Reintous; and as Deacons of this City, in place of the three outgoing bretheren Messrs. Hertenberg, Strobach and Staats, out of a panel of six nominations, the following were elected, also by a majority of vote, namely: the Junior Merchant Johannes van Ebbenhorst, and the bookkeepers Hendrik Diederik Dias da Fonceka and Gerrit Fybrandsz; and it was at the same time decided to report to our Government accordingly with an extract of these proceedings, for the favour of their approval. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 261

Finally, it was resolved and decided to direct the Secretary to comply with the request made to us in a private letter by the Proponent Manuel Morgappa to be furnished with a Church testimonial regarding his appointment as Proponent and his conduct during; his period of service as a Proponent in Ceylon; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed: The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), W.J. Ondaatje; Elders; C. de Cock, D. de Bok; Deacon: I. Hertenberg.

Censura Morum held on 10th January 1776 (p. 394)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elder: J. de Bordes; Deacons: J.J. Gilbert, J.A. Sezilles, J.W. Staats and J.C. Strobach. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Further, on a letter received from the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje as Scriba Epistylarum requesting to be informed what information he should include as regards Jaffna in the letters to the Fatherland, it was resolved to mention regarding the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, that he has been permitted to leave for Batavia on account of his bad conduct with depreciation of his pay, and as regards the Rev. Mr. de Melho, that mention should likewise be made in the said letters that we with deep regret must report that he has been suspended from his office on account of some serious charges which are being further investigated. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the elders. Messrs. de Bok and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Hertenberg and Strobach; and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The names of the newly admitted Church members, three in all, were handed over to the Scriba as usual for enrolment. As regards the outposts, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had had no opportunity (lit: free time) to visit them and that this will shortly hove to be done; and likewise the Scriba too said that he could not visit Cotta and Nagamuwa owing to the heavy rains. The Leper Asylum will shortly be ministered to; and this duty was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and one of the elders on the next occasion. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Deacon: F.B. Giffenig.

Extraordinary Combined meeting held on 25th January 1776 (p. 395)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: J. do Bordes; Deacons: J.W. Staats, J.J. Gilbert, J.A. Sezilles and J.C. Strobach. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to despatch the letters to the Fatherland which had been prepared by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, and after the Political Commissioner who had first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government had replied in the negative, these letters Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 262 ware read and approved and signed and sealed and handed over to the President and the Scriba for delivery to His Excellency the Governor for transmission as usual. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. (N.B. These minutes are not signed by any of the members).

Ordinary meeting held on 25th March 1776 (p. 396)

Absent : Rve. Messrs. Philipsz and Manger (on commission); Elders: J. de Bordes, D. de Bok and J. de Vos; Deacons: I. Hertenberg, J.C. Strobach and F.B. Giffenig. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President asked the Political Commissaris wether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he replied in the negative. The President then tabled a notification regarding the handing over of the administration of the Diaconate by the outgoing to the incoming Deacons and an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 26th of January last approving the installation of the new elders and deacons which were duly noted. Thereafter, the newly-elected elders and deacons were welcomed and the outgoing bertheren were thanked, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz respectively. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- The Castle (Fort) - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Leembruggen The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had ministered at the outposts of Kalutara and Panadura in January last; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and the elder Mr. Leembruggen. Thereafter, the ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. Lacroix came in and requested that he be also appointed as undertaker, which request was referred to the President for disposal after scrutiny of the rules pertaining thereto. There also came in the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Paulus Menken and produced his classical Act of appointment and his wife’s ’attestatie’, the former of which was handed back to him as usual after perusal, and the latter was passed on for necessary action as usual; and, coming in again for the second time, he asked to be employed here, a decision on which was put off till such time as he shows proof of better conduct than he had hitherto displayed. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. W.J. Ondaatje (Acting President), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: H. Leembruggen, G.E. Holst; J. Brohier and J. Reintous, and the deacon J.A. Sezilles.

Censura Morum of 3rd April 1776 (p. 397)

Absent : The Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and J.G. Manger (both on commission); the Elder: H. Leembruggen; and the Deacon: J. Ebbenhorst. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting having been read and approved and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 263

special to report, except that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled four ’ attestaties ’ which he had received, which were passed on for registration as usual along with the names of those who had been admitted as Church members. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Leembruggen and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Gilbert and Sezilles, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons. Proceeding thereafter to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation, except that the bad conduct of the daughter of the late ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. Reus was mentioned, and it was decided to ask her to abstain from Holy Communion on this occasion. Further, the meeting considered it advisable to submit to the Government of this Island the request of the ’ Voorlezer ’ Mr. Lacroix which was referred to the President at the last session; and there being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Mr. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: H. Leembruggen, G.E. Holst, J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and the Deacons: J.A. Sezilles, J.J. Gilbert, F.B. Giffenig, H.D. Dias da Fonceka and G. Fybrandsz.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1776 (p. 399)

Absent : Deacon: J.J. Gilbert. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, and he replied in the negative. Thereafter, an extract of a resolution of the Political Council was read, which was noted for necessary action; and it was resolved that the Predikant who officiates at a service shall enter amount of the offertories in a book. Therafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz took over the office of President, and the Rev. Mr. Manger took over the office of Scriba . Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- In the Castle (Fort) - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Brohier. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje said that he had ministered at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Leembruggen, and this duty was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz too reported that he had ministered at Cotta and Nagamuwa, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz said that he had done so at Panadura and Kalutara; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: H. Leembruggen, G.E. Holst and J. Brohier; and Deacons: J.A. Sezilles and F.B. Giffenig.

Censura Morum held on 3rd July 1776 (p. 400)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 264

After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; whereafter the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The newly-admitted Church members were accepted for enrolment, and the service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Brohier and Reintous, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The Sexton then requested the Consistory to appoint him to succeed the late Sexton of Jaffna Mr. Sperling: which was granted, and it was decided to recommend the same to His Excellency the Governor. It was also decided to request His Excellency’s approval for reprinting the Sinhalese trans- lation of the Four Gospels after prior revision, as the Rev. Mr. Philipsz said that he had discovered certain errors in it; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz, J.G. Manger and H. Philipsz; Elders: H. Leembruggen, G.E. Holst, J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and the Deacons: J.J. Gilbert, F.B. Giffenig, H.D. Dias da Fonseka and G. Fybrandsz.

Extraordinary meeting held on 13th August 1776 (p. 401)

Absent : The Political Commissaris. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President tabled two letters from Holland and an extract, the latter of which was noted, and it was decided to send an extract to the Government of this Island, reporting that the Sexton Mr. Jeremias Stol was examined by the President and two other Predikants and was found to be reasonable capable. It was further decided to request the Government, with an extract of these proceedings, (as we do now sincerely request Their Honours), that the Predikant F.F. Manger, who will be coming out hare, be sent to Colombo to work with us here, since it was specially intended by the Consistory that His Reverence should come here and had therefore expedited his departure from Europe. Finally, it was decided to report the necessary details regarding the Rev. Mr. de Melho, and to recommend the organist Mr. Christian Reikheer for the post of Sexton and Mr. N.N. Toerks for the post of Organist. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger, H. Philipsz; Elders: H. Leembruggen, G.E. Holst, J. Brohier, J. Reintous; and the Deacons: J.A. Sezilles and F.B. Giffenig.

Ordinary meeting held on 23rd September 1776 (p. 402)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on commission); Elder: J. Reintous; and Deacon: J.J. Gilbert. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 265

The Political Commissaris having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government replied in the negative. An extract of a resolution of the Political Council regarding the appointment of the Sexton Mr. Stoll as schoolmaster of Jaffna etc. was read and its contents were noted; and the minutes of the last meeting having been approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Ondaatje respectively, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz acted as Scriba in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) - the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Leembruggen. In the outer City and suburbs - the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Holst. Finally the reports of the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz that they had ministered, the former at the Leper Asylum and the latter at Nagamuwa and Gotta, were noted, and the next ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Brohier; and there being no further business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.E. Holst and J. Brohier; and Deacon: J.A. Sezilles.

Censura Morum held on 2nd October 1776 (p. 403)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (on commission); and Deacons: J. van Ebbenhorst and J.A. Sezilles. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been approved and signed, the bretheren who had clone the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, but mentioned to the Consistory (i.e. brought to their notice) that the laudable and also so desirable practice of visiting (Church members) before the service of Holy Communion seem to be fruitless (lit: useless; here because, on the one hand, because it (i.e. participation at Holy Communion) is so shamefully neglected and improperly (i.e. indifferently) observed by several, yea even most, of the Church members; and, on the other hand, because it appears to be regarded as a nuisance by them, so that they would rather that the Predikant and the Elder pass them by and. not visit them, while, in the meantime, these bretheren labour in vain (lit: tire themselves out uselessly) with no real benefit (i.e. gaining no advantage whatsoever), notwithstanding the fact that the said bretheren, in the execution of this commission, have almost often to remain standing before the doors of the houses of Church members, because they do not know whether they would be welcome (lit: admitted) or not, and even if they were received and offered the invitation to Holy Communion, then the invitees have still no notion at all or at the most have but a faint idea of the real purpose, which they would even just as well have from the three pulpit announcements and the preparatory sermon before Holy Communion which are held in order that they may be able to prepare themselves beforehand for that solemn duty which they would now thus be able to fulfil (i.e. comply with). Having deliberated thereover, the bretheren wholly agreed, for the abovementioned rea- sons, to discontinue the doing of house visits before the service of Holy Communion, and to Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 266 report accordingly to His Excellency the Governor. No further reports were received regarding the conduct of Church members. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Leembruggen and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Da Fonceka and Fybrandsz, and that in the outer, (Wolvendaal) Church, in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje whose turn it was to do so, was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.E. Holst, J. Brohier, H. Leembruggen and J. Reintous; and the Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and G. Fybrandsz.

Extraordinary meeting of 7th November 1776 (p. 404)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (at Tutucorin), the Rev. W.J. Ondaatje (at Jaffna); Elder: H. Leembruggen; and Deacon: G. Fybrandsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Hon. Mr. de Bock was welcomed as Political Commissioner and introduced to the Session, and the President said that this meeting was convened in order to seal the letters to the Fatherland which were prepared by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; and after the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government had replied in the negative, these letters were immediately read and approved and signed and sealed and handed over to the President and the Scriba for delivery to His Excellency the Governor with a request that they may be transmitted as usual; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: G.E. Holst, J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and Deacon: J.A. Sezilles.

Ordinary meeting held on 30th December 1776 (p. 405)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elders: H. Leembruggen and J. Reintous; and the Deacons: J.J. Gilbert and F.B. Giffenig. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. The President further tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 27th of September last regarding the call (i.e. transfer) of the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje to Jaffna and the appointment of the Rev. Mr. Manger as Rector of the Seminary here, which was duly noted. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had visited Tutucorin and found the congrega- tion there to be at peace and harmony; and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz too reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta and that he will shortly be doing so at Nagamuwa. Similarly, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that since the month of May he had had no opportunity of visiting the outposts of Kalutara and Panadura. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 267

The Rev. Mr. Ondaatje requested to be released and asked for an ’attestatie’, for his wife, which will be given to him in due time. The ministry at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger assisted by the elder Mr. Brohier as he had not yet done his turn there. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: G.E. Holst, J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and the Deacon: F.B. Giffenig.

Censura Morum held on 8th January 1777 (p. 406)

Absent : The Rev. W.J. Ondaatje; Elders: H. Leembruggen and G.E. Holst; and the Deacons: J.J. Gilbert, J.A. Sezilles, J.C. Strobach and F.B. Giffenig. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled two letters, which, on being opened, were found to be one from Batavia from the Rev. Mr. Lieftink, and the other was from Amsterdam forwarding the Synodal Acts of Worth Holland held at Edam in the year 1775, which were noted for necessary action. The Political Commissaris was then led out of the meeting by the President, and the meeting proceeded to the Censura Morum, and no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Brohier and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Gilbert and Sezilles, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Manger reported that the Captain Jan Philip Linbergen had come over from Jaffna as a Church member and that the Lieutenant van Essen who had recently come over from Galle had requested to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion promising to get his ’attestatie’ from there shortly, and it was resolved to enrol the name of the former and to grant the request of the latter. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders; J. Brohier and J. Reintous; Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and G. Fybrandsz.

Extraordinary meeting held on 21st January 1777 (p. 407)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to elect new deacons and tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 6th instant, authorising this Consistory to examine the pupils Louis Rodrigo and Matthys Jurgen Ondaatje and the schoolmaster Don Salomon for appointment as Proponents , which was noted for due compliance and the President was deputed as usual to examine them Proceeding to the election of Deacons: Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 268 out of a nomination of six persons, the following were elected as Deacons in place of the bretheren Messrs. Gilbert, Ebbenhorst and Sezilles, namely: the Ensign of the Burgery Johannes Wilhelmus van Cuylenburg, the Tombokeeper Adriaan van Dort and the Assistent Abraham Samlant, and it was resolved to report the same to the Government along, with an extract of these proceedings, for the favour of their approval. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje bade farewell to this Consistory with an expression of his thanks for the fellowship and companionship which he had hitherto enjoyed and wished God’s blessings on the bretheren, and the President replied to the same on behalf of the Session with similar good wishes, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Mayer; Elders: G.E. Holst, J. Brohier, J. Reintous; Deacon: F.B. Giffenig.

Extraordinary meeting held on 18th February 1777 (p. 408)

Absent : Elders: H. Leembruggen and G.E. Holst; and Deacon: G. Fybrandsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to comply with the orders received in the Political Resolution of the 6th of January last to examine the pupils Louis Rodrigo, Matthys Jurgen Ondaatje and the school- master Don Salomon, and he also tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 4th instant, wherein the Government of this Island, having deliberated over the ex- tract of the resolution of this Consistory of the 21st of January regarding the installation of the Ensign of the Burgery Mr. van Cuylenburg, the Tombokeeper Mr. van Dort and the Assistant Mr. Samlant as deacons of this City in place of the Junior Merchants Messrs. Gilbert and Ebbenhorst and the bookkeeper Mr. Sezilles, informs this Consistory that Their Honours would be pleased if the outgoing Merchants were succeeded by others of the same official status, which was noted for due compliance; and proceeding again to elect deacons in compliance with the wishes of Their Honours, the following were elected, namely: the Trade Bookkeeper Mattheus Petrus Raket, the shopkeeper (Dutch: winkelier) designate Mr. Lourens Christiaan Frobus and the afore-mentioned Tombokeeper Adriaan van Dort, and it was at the same time resolved to report accordingly to the Government for their approval. Whereafter, the abovementioned pupils and schoolmaster having been called in, they were asked to mount the pulpit in turn (lit: one after the other) and preach on given texts, which lasted for some time, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz as President then proceeded to examine them in theology, chiefly on the fundamentals of natural and revealed theology, which examination having lasted for some time, the President asked the candidates to remain outside and asked the members of this Consistory for their opinions on the examination; whereupon Their Reverences affirmed that the first candidate Louis Rodrigo had not sufficiently qualified and could therefore be refused (lit; had therefore failed) and this was left to the disposal of the Government, and that the two others, although they had reasonably answered the Questions that were put to them., they could not however, with a clear conscience (i.e. conscientiously) be admitted for public preaching duties as they were still weak in certain aspects, but. that Mattheus Jurgen Ondaatje could however, if the Government was pleased to do so, be allowed to proceed to Batavia, in the hope that he would in the meantime qualify to undergo a fuller test there, and that Don Salomon could be appointed as a Catechist here, for which duty he Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 269

is fit and qualified; and it was also resolved to report accordingly to the Government with an extract of these proceedings. There being no other business the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and the Deacon F.B. Giffenig.

Ordinary meeting held on 18th March 1777 (p. 410)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having answered in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. It was further resolved to resist (lit: to check) the audacity of the Roman Catholic Father (in refusing to issue a baptism certificate to those who desired to come over to us) and if it occurs again, to earnestly request the Government to take action in the matter. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: H. Leembruggen, J. Brohier and J. Reintous.

Censura Morum held on 26th March 1777 (p. 411)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes.) The minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the request of the outgoing brother deacons to be released was allowed and they were dismissed with the blessing of the Session and the new Deacons were welcomed. The newly-admitted Church members were accepted as no adverse reports were made regarding their conduct. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received in regard to the conduct of the members of this Consistory. The service of Holy Communion in the Fort Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fy- brandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Leembruggen and Holst and the deacons Messrs. da Fonceka and Giffenig; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philips assisted by the same bretheren. Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits, and the meeting termi- nated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: J. Brohier and J. Reintous; Deacons: F.B. Giffenig, Fybrandsz and A. van Dort.

Ordinary meeting held on 23rd July 1777 (p. 412)

Absent : (n.b. Mo names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris having first been asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having answered in the negative, it was resolved to write to Galle regarding the ’attestatie’ of Mr. Van Es. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 270

Thereafter, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Brohier. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.G. Manger and the elder J. Brohier.

Censura Morum of 2nd July 1777 (p. 413)

Absent : Elders: J. Leembruggen and G.E. Holst; Deacons; H.D. Dias da Fonceka andL.C. Frobus. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the names of the newly-admitted Church members were handed over for enrolment. The bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Brohier and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Raket and Fybrandsz; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The outposts were duly ministered to during the month of June by both Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Philipsz; and the next ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to Mr. Manger and the elder J. Brohier. Among those who had requests to make there came in one Albertina from Hertombosch, who requested to be admitted as a guest at Holy Communion, promising to obtain and furnish her ’attestatie’ from Jaffna, which request was allowed on this condition; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger, J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and the deacons B.J. Raket and A. Van Dort.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th September 1777 (p. 414)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on commission); Elders: H. Leembruggen and J. Reintous; Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and B.J. Raket. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed. The office of Scriba was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, and the office of President was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, in whose absence the Rev. Mr. Manger officiated as President. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- The 1st and 2nd blocks in the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Leembruggen. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 271

The letters from the Fatherland dated at Vlissingen the 1st of November 1776 and at Delft the 1st of December 1776, which had been circulated to members, and the synodal acts which accompanied them, were noted for necessary action as usual. The ministry at the Leper Asylum, which had been done by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder J.Brohier was allotted on this occasion to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. The ’attestatie’ of the Lieutenant van Essen, which was brought in by the Sexton, was noted for due announcement and registration; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger, J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder J. Brohier and the Deacon G. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum held on 1st October 1777 (p. 415)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz and the deacon G. Fybrandsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer and the signing of the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting, it was decided, at the request of the brother Deacons, to invest Mr. Frobus in office at the next opportunity, as he had already been proposed by the congregation on three occasions for installation as a new Deacon. The letter from Jaffna containing their report on the churches and the schools there, as well as three ’ attestaties ’ which were tabled, were passed on for necessary action as usual. The bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The names of the newlyadmitted Church members were noted for due announcement and enrolment. The two ’ Krankbezoeker ’ who had arrived here on the supply ship, namely: Gilles de Koste and Hendrik Jonas Moorkramer, came in and presented their credentials, which on being found to be valid were handed back to them. There also came in two soldiers and asked for their ’ attestaties ’, but as their names were not entered in the membership roll, they were referred to the Rev. Mr. Manger to undergo a short examination. The service of Holy Communion in the Fort Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fy- brandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Leembruggen and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Da Fonceka and Van Dort, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the same elders and deacons. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: H. Leembruggen, J. Brohier and J. Reintous; and Deacons: H.D. Dias da Fonceka and A. Van Dort.

Ordinary meeting held on 29th December 1777 (p. 416)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Elders: G.E. Holst and J. Reintous. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 272

Arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Brohier. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had ministered at Trincomalee and Batticaloa. The brother elders and deacons requested to be released: whereupon it was decided to take up the election of new elders and deacons at the Censura Morum meeting. Further, the Sexton of the Old City (Pettah) requested to be appointed as 5th Undertaker’s man, whereupon it was decided to submit his request to the Government with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : Elder H. Leembruggen; and Deacon G. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum held on 7th January 1778 (p. 417)

Absent : The Political Commissaris and the elder G.E. Holst. The minutes of the previous meeting having been approved and signed, an extract received from the Government was read, approving the withdrawal of the revision of the Old Testament in Tamil as recommended by this Consistory. No special report having been made on the recent house visits, the service of Holy Com- munion in the Fort Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Brohier and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Fybrandsz and Frobus, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were noted for due announcement and enrolment. Proceeding to the election of new elders and deacons: in place of the three outgoing elders Messrs. Leembruggen, Holst and Brohier, out of a nomination of eight persons, the following were elected by a majority of vote: namely, Messrs. Borwater, Mekern and Kinberger; and in place of the three outgoing deacons Messrs. Da Fonceka, Fybrandsz and Giffenig, Messrs. Strobach, Samland and Willem Cuylenburg were elected. It was further decided that it would be more beneficial (lit: edifying) if, instead of the daily evening prayers in the Dutch language which the High Dutch (i.e. Germans) very little of or nothing at all, the evening prayers are held twice a week in the future, once in Dutch and once in High Dutch (i.e. German), and for this purpose if one prayer time is conducted in High Dutch (i.e. German), which duty was delegated to the second Preceptor of the Seminary Mr. Pistor as the ’ Voorlezer ’ in High Dutch (i.e. German). There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elder: H. Leembruggen; and Deacon: G. Fybrandsz.

Ordinary meeting held on the 6th of April 1778 (p. 418)

Absent : Elder: J. Kinberger; and Deacons: A. Van Dort and B.J. Raket. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the minutes of the previous Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 273 meeting were read and approved and signed, and the outgoing brother elders and deacons were discharged with the blessings of the Session, and the newly elected bretheren were introduced and welcomed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively. Two letters which had been circulated to the members, one from Vlissingen dated 9th May 1776, and the other from Batavia dated the 2nd of January 1778, along with the report by the President on the state of the Churches here, which are to be found in their respective places, were noted for necessary action in due course. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Borwater. In the old city and the suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Mekern. It was reported that the outposts had been duly ministered to; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philips ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Borwater, M. Mekern and J. Reintous.

Censura Morum held on 15th April 1778 (p. 419)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on school visits). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were passed on for necessary action as usual. No adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Borwater and Mekern and the deacons Messrs. van Dort and van Cuylenburg; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President and Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Borwater, M. Makern and. J. Reintous; and the deacons: L.C. Frobus, A. van Dort, J.W. Van Cuylenburg and A. Samlant.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1778 (p. 420)

Absent : Deacons: B.J. Raket, L.C. Frobus and A. Van Dort. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political. Commissaris having said that he had nothing special to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 274

The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Mekern. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Borwater. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintour.

Censura Morum held on the 1st of July 1778 (p. 421)

The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that the Rev. Mr. Manger tabled an ’attestatie’ of Sergeant Abraham van den Broek, which, as well as the names of these who had declared their Confession of Faith, were noted for due announcement and registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against the present or absent members of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Borwater and Mekern and the Deacons Messrs. Strobach and Samland; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the same bretheren. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Cotta and Nagamuwa, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz said that he had done so during the last month at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Reintous, which reports were duly noted, and the latter duty (i.e. at the Leper Asylum) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger whose turn it now was to do so, with the elder Mr. Kinbergen; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern and J. Reintous; Deacons: J.W. van Cuylenburg, A. Van Dort and A. Samlant. Extraordinary meeting of 15th July 1778 (p. 422) Absent : Deacons: A.P. Raket and J.C. Frobus. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in view of a letter which he had received, which, on being opened, was found to be from Amsterdam, dated 6th October 1777, enclosing the Synodal Acts of that year held at Haarlem, which was passed on for necessary action as usual. Thereafter, the suspended ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Solly came in and requested the Con- sistory to kindly intercede on his behalf and release him from his suspension, which request was refused as he had not yet been acquitted by the Court of Justice. Thereafter, Mr. Manger reported that, on the orders of the Chief of Kalpitiya, he had visited the Madura Coast, and found the congregation there to be at peace and in good harmony and order, and also that the Church Consistory at Tutucorin have been obliged to Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 275

suspend from his office at their last Censura Morum meeting the ’ Voorlezer ’ of Tutucorin (Mr. Kryger) owing to his habitual drunkenness, with the foreknowledge of the Chief of that place, and he tabled an extract from the, proceedings of the Censura Morum meeting and also added thereto that Mr. Kryger has since promised to conduct himself better, but that time only must show whether he would do so. This was duly noted, and His Reverence asked that a letter be sent there accordingly. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; and Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintous.

Ordinary meeting of 28th September 1778 (p. 423)

Absent : All the brother Deacons. The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and signed, and the President tabled a letter which, on being opened, was found to be from Amsterdam. Thereafter, the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Messrs. Smit and Mulder came in, the latter of whom requested to be allowed to remain here, and after deliberation, it was resolved to submit his request to the Government with an extract of these proceedings, and so also with the request of Jan Fredrik Knuploock to be appointed as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ in the place of Mr. Mulder. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern and J. Reintous.

Censura Morum held on 30th September 1775 (p. 424)

Absent : Elder J.L. Kinbergen; and Deacons: J.C. Frobus and A.P. Raket. The meeting having opened with prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were ap- proved and signed. The bretheren who had done the house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received against and of the members. The service of Holy Communion was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Raket and van Dort. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were read out. The country preacher Mr. Francus who was questioned about his improper conduct and warned, presented (i.e. tabled) a booklet entitled ’A short compendium of the Christian Reformed Religion: by David Kribbe’, which he had already partly translated into the Tamil language, with a request that it be sent to the Government for their approval to have Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 276

it printed (lit: sent to the Press). After admonishing the country preacher Mr. Franciscus that he should complete the translation of the said booklet, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elder: M. Mekern; and Deacons: A. van Dort, A. Samland and J.P. van Cuylenburg.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 12th of November 1778 (p. 425)

(n.b.: No names of absentees are entered in these minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the letters to the Fatherland were read and sealed. The President then tabled an extract from the Ceylon Government regarding differences that had arisen at Jaffna between the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and Mesdames Brochet and Nagel, wherein the Government has asked the Church Consistory of Colombo for their advice on the points mentioned in the case regarding the above ladies. Having deliberated thereover, it was decided to ask the Government, with an extract of these proceedings, for a copy of the resolution of the Jaffna Church Consistory, since this Consistory is not in a position to give an opinion about the equity of the censure, not being aware of the reasons for such censure. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern and J. Reintous.

Ordinary meeting held on 28th December 1778 (p. 426)

Absent : Elder: J.L. Kinbergen; and Deacons: A.P. Raket and A. Van Dort. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Before doing so, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having answered in the negative, the President tabled an extract of a resolution of the Political Council of the 10th December 1778 regarding the continuance here of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Joan Mulder, and the minutes of the previous meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the offices President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintour. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; and the Elders: J.H. Borwater and J. Reintous.

Censura Morum held on 6th January 1779 (p. 427)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 277

After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The following arrangements were made for the services of Holy Communion:- In the innder (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Reintous and the Deacons Messrs. Frobus and van Cuylenburg. In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the same brother elders and deacons. The country preacher Jan Franciscus, notwithstanding the recent warning given him by this Consistory at its sitting of the 30th September last, having shown no signs of improve- ment and thus caused consternation and vexation to the congregation, it was therefore decided that he be censured by this Consistory. Proceeding then to elect new Deacons in place of the three outgoing deacons Messrs. Frobus, Raket St. van Dort, out of a nomination of six persons, the following were elected by a majority of vote: the bookkeepers B.P.D. de Haart, Johannes Doebbratsz and Lourens Perera, and it was resolved at the same time to report according to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. Finally, it was resolved that Church members should first be instructed by the President. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Riders: J. Reintous, J.L. Kinbergen, M. Mekern; and Deacon: A.P. Raket.

Ordinary meeting held on 22nd March 1779 (p. 428)

Absent : Elder: M. Mekern; and Deacon: A. Samland. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President asked the Political Commissaris whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government and he answered in the negative, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. Thereafter, the Scriba tabled two extracts received from the Political Council regarding a request from Galle for the services of a suitable person for appointment to the post of Sexton and schoolmaster of the Orphan House there in place of the late Mr. Everhardus van Laren, and the approval both of the newly-elected Deacons as well as the suspension of the country preacher Joan Franciscus: all of which were noted for necessary action, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger fit the elder Mr. Borwater. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous Thereafter, the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz, Fybrandsz and Manger reported that they had visited the outposts entrusted to them and administered Holy Communion there. Those who had requests to make having been summoned in there came in the country- preacher Joan Franciscus, who requested to be released from his suspension: this was put off for consideration at the next meeting, and the members were meanwhile advised to enquire into his conduct since his suspension, and when he was informed of this, he handed over a book entitled ”A short compendium of the Christian Reformed Religion extracted from the Heidelberg Catechism by the Rev. David Knibbe, Predikant of Leyden”, published in the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 278

Dutch language and now translated by him into Tamil for the benefit and advantage of the Tamil congregation, which the meeting resolved to send to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for their approval to have it revised by the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje and sent to the Press for publication for that salutary purpose. Finally, there came in the soldier Huibert Fontein, who requested that he may be appointed to the vacant post of Sexton and schoolmaster of the Orphan House at Galle, which was referred to the Rev. Mr. Manger for investigation as to whether he possessed the necessary qualifications therefor, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J.H. Borwater, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintous; and Deacons. J.C. Strobus and J.W. van Cuylenburg.

Censura Morum held on 31st March 1779 (p. 431)

Absent : Elders: J.C. Borwater and M. Mekern. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Thereafter, the newly-elected Deacons were welcomed by the President, and the miniates of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and only the Rev. Mr. Manger tabled a list of the names of those who had made their Confession of Faith, which was noted for due announcement and enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or any member of the congregation; and the service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Borwater and Kinbergen and the deacons Messrs. Samland and van Cuylenburg and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in the country preacher Joan Franciscus, who reiterated the request made by him at the last session to be released from his suspension, which it was resolved to allow him in view of the favourable reports received regarding his behaviour since his suspension, but he was however seriously warned regarding his conduct, in case he should again be found to be guilty of such drunk- enness, and it was resolved at the same time to inform the Government accordingly with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. It was also resolved, in regard to the soldier Huibert Fontein, who had applied at the last session for the vacant post of Sexton and schoolmaster of the Orphan House at Galle, and who had been found to be capable, to recommend him accordingly to the Government. Finally, there came in the Second Preceptor Johan Martyn Pistor, who asked to be excused (lit: released) of the duty of Reader in High Dutch (i.e. German) at the evening service, as he had not hitherto performed this duty, and the meeting resolved to bring this request to the notice of the Government with an extract of these proceedings and to recommend (lit: solicit) some remuneration for him for the said duty. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 279

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J.C. Borwater, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintous; and Deacons: J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach.

Extraordinary meeting held on 19th May 1779 (p. 432)

Absent : Elder: M. Mekern. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the President tabled an extract which he had received from the Political Council and a letter, which had been circulated to the members: the extract was regarding the release of the Preceptor Johan Martyn from the duties of Reader in the Church and conveying their approval for the release of the country preacher Joan Franciscus from his suspension as well as for the appointment of Huibert Fontein as Sexton and Schoolmaster of the Galle Poor House. These were all noted for necessary action, and it was at the same time resolved, in regard to the letter of 6th December 1777 addressed to this Consistory from Delft, forwarding the Synodal Acts, to file it with the inward correspondence for reply in due course and to take the usual action on the Synodal Acts. The President also tabled five extracts of resolutions of the Jaffna Consistory stating the grounds on which Mesdames Brochet and Nagel were censured; and having deliberated thereover, the meeting, in order to avoid any further argument (lit: cavilling) or disputes and to foster peace and unity among that congregation, expressed their opinion as follows: -namely: That the Rev. Mr. Ondaatje could be well assured by the public testimony in writing given by Mr. Nagel that he had nothing against His Reverence, and also that nothing was said by these ladies that was detrimental to His Reverence, but that it was all due to a pure misunderstanding, and that ample satisfaction (i.e. redress) had been made thereby; and besides this, that the said sisters, who, being ignorant of Church practice and their obligations thereover, have violated the same by not appearing before that Consistory when they were summoned by it to do so, which may be really due to the fact that it is probable that their husbands, who belong to another faith, had not authorised them and may have restrained them from fulfilling their obligations, and that it may be due to these reasons that they had incurred the censure of that Consistory for this act of disobedience, and that they could therefore be relieved of the same; and it was further resolved to report accord ingly to the Government as being the advice (i.e. opinion) of this Consistory, in compliance with their requisition, along with an extract of these proceedings. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elders: J.H. Borwater, J. Kinbergen, J. Reintous; Deacons: J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach.

Ordinary meeting held on (23rd) June 1779 (p. 434)

Absent : Deacon A.Samland. After invoicing God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the necessary arrangements for the usual services of Holy Communion. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 280

The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and. Manger respectively. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Mekern. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr.Manger and the elder Mr.Borwater. There being no other business the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintous; Deacons: J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach.

Censura Morum held on 30th June 1779 (p. 435)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Rev. Mr. Manger reported to the meeting that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Kin- bergen, and this duty on the next occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Mekern. Thereafter, the names of the newly-admitted Church members were read out, and it was resolved to announce them in Church and have them duly enrolled. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Borwater and Mekern and the deacons Messrs. Strobach and Perera; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: M. Mekern, J.L. Kinbergen and J. Reintous.

Extraordinary meeting held on 19th August 1779 (p. 436)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). after invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether, he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having answered in the neg- ative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to examine the credentials or testimonials of the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. van der Camp, who had arrived here from the Netherlands on the ship ’de Ganges’, and who had been examined by the Classis of Lingen and accepted, and had come over here at the request of this Consistory. Proceeding then to examine these documents, it was observed that the said Mr. van der Camp had not only been examined beforehand by the Classis of Lingen and accepted and appointed as a Proponent , but also that there was nothing again his conduct and behaviour; whereupon the meeting resolved to recommend this his request to the Government, along with an extract of these proceedings. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern and J.L. Kinbergen; Deacons: J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 281

Ordinary meeting held on 20th September 1779 (p. 437)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger (on school visits); Elder: J.H. Borwater; and Deacons: A. Samland, J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach (indisposed). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the service of Holy Communion. The Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, it was resolved to record to the extract of the Political Council resolution regarding the Proponent Christianas Camp, which had been circulated to members. The offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Nagamuwa and Cotta. Finally, the duty of preparing the annual letters to the Fatherland was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and there being no other business the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern and J.L. Kinbergen.

Censura Morum held on 29th September 1779 (p. 438)

Absent : Elder: J.H. Borwater; Deacons: A. Samland, J.W. van Cuylenburg and J.C. Strobach. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, and only the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled some ’ attestaties ’, which were handed back after perusal, and also a list of the names of the newly-admitted Church mem- bers, and no objections having been raised to them, they were duly accepted for enrolment, and the name of Maria, one of the abovementioned Church members, was to be recorded in the baptism register as she had been baptised as a Roman Catholic. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Doebbratsz and de Haart; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Manger reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Kalpitiya, Chilaw and Negombo; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 282

Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Philipsz ( Scriba ) and J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: M. Mekern, Kinbergen and J. Reintous; and Deacons: B.P.C. de Haart and L. Perera.

Extraordinary meeting held on 8th November 1779 (p. 439)

Absent : Elders: J.H. Borwater and M. Mekern; Deacons: A. Samland and J.W. van Cuylenburg. The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the meeting proceeded immediately to read, sign and seal the Church reports to the Lords Seventeen (i.e. Directors of the East India Company in Holland) and to the relevant Classes and the Church Consistory at Batavia, which had been prepared by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and tabled at this meeting, and this having been done, it was resolved to send them to His Excellency the Governor for transmission as usual. There being no other business, the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.H. Borwater and J.L. Kinbergen; and Deacon: J.C. Strobach.

Ordinary meeting held on 5th January 1780 (p. 440)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elder: J. Reintous; Deacon: A. Samland. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The political Commissaris, who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed, and the office of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Reintous. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. The President then tabled two letters dated at Middelburg the 12th of November 1778 and at Jaffna the 11th of November 1779, which were noted for necessary action as they had already been circulated to members. The President also tabled the 1st book of Moses called Genesis which he had translated into Sinhalese, and requested that it be sent to the Press for publication after due revision, which task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the Second Mudaliyar Philipsz for that purpose, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Deacons: B.P.C. de Haart and J. Doebbratsz.

Censura Morum of 12th January 1780 (p. 441)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger and the deacon J. Doebbratsz. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 283

The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that two (? three) ’ attestaties ’ were tabled in favour of Cornelia Reinica van Sanden, Geertruida Henrietta Lobeck and Jakomina Gerrardina Giffenig, which were duly noted for registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Reintous and the deacons Messrs. Strobach and van Cuylenburg; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, in place of the elders Messrs. J.H. Borwater, M. Mekern, J.P. Kinbergen and J. Reintous, and the deacons Messrs. Samland, van Cuylenburg and Strobach, all of whom had asked to be released on the expiry of their terms of office, out of a double panel of nominations, the following were elected as Elders: namely, J. de Bordes, D. Potken, R. Stork and J. de Vos, and the following were elected as deacons: namely, the Junior Merchant Mr. Vollenhoven and the bookkeepers Messrs. de Kretser and Ludekens; and it was at the same time decided to inform the Government of these elections for the favour of their approval to have them installed in office after the usual announcements in the Church. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Philipsz (President), Elder: J. Reintous; Deacon: B.P.C. de Haart.

Ordinary meeting held on 13th March 1780 (p. 442)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: Mr. de Bordes; and deacon: L. Perera. The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris on being asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting were read, but owing to the absence of the outgone elders, they were signed only by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Thereafter, certain extracts of 1730 were read, and also a letter from Batavia. The offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively, and the new brother elders were heartily welcomed by the Pres- ident with the blessings of the Session; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Stork. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: R. Stork and J. de Vos; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz and B.P.C. de Haart.

Censura Morum held on 22nd March 1780 (p. 443)

Absent: The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger and H. Philipsz; Elders: D. Potken and J. de Bordes: and Deacon: L. Perera. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 284

After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the signing of the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except the Rev. Mr. Manger who sent an ’attestatie’ in favour of Mrs. Mekern which was respected, and his request that she may be duly informed was action. The names of those who had trade their Confession of Faith were read and accepted for registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Stork and De Vos and the deacons Messrs. Doebbratsz and Perera; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at Kalutara and Panadura. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President); Elders: J.P. Stork and J. de Vos; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, J.B. Ludekens, J. Vollenhoven and C. de Kretser.

Ordinary meeting held on 19th June 1780 (p. 444)

Absent : Elders: D. Potken and J. de Vos; Deacon: J. Doebbratsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government had replied in the negative, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion; and the minutes of the previous meeting having first been read and approved and signed, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the fortcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. In the Old City St the suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Bordes. The report of the Rev. Mr. Philipsz that he had administered Holy Communion at the outposts entrusted to him and at the Leper Asylum with the deacon Mr. Strobach was noted, and the latter duty on the next occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs, H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; and the Deacon: B.P.C. de Haart.

Censura Morum held on 28th June 1780 (p. 445)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger and the. Deacon; B.P.C. de Haart. This meeting was convened in order to hold the Censura Morum as usual, and in view of the illness of the President, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz opened the meeting with prayer, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved and signed. The bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, only the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled an ’attestatie’ of Maria Francina Alenbach who Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 285

had come here from Galle, and no objections were raised against it or against the persons who had made their Confession of Faith, and their names were noted for due announcement and enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Bordes and Potken and the deacons Messrs. Vollenhoven and de Haart; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J. de Bordes, J.P. Stork and J. de Vos; Deacons: J. Doebbratsz, J.B. Ludekens, C. de Kretser and J. Vollenhoven.

Ordinary meeting held on 18th September 1780 (p. 446)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elders: J. de Bordes, D. Potken, J.P. Stork; and Deacon: L. Perera. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Hereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Stork. In the inner and outer cities - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. The ministry at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Potken, as the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Bordes had done their turn there in July. It was further resolved to record here the Circular sent to members regarding the exami- nation and recommendation of the soldier Carel Groot. Johan for the office of ’ Voorlezer ’ and ’ Krankbezoeker ’ of Trincomalee, which read as follows:- ”Carel Groot Johan, having been examined by the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger, was found to possess the necessary qualifications for appointment as a ’ Krankbezoeker ’ or a ’ Voorlezer ’, and therefore the bretheren are hereby requested to state whether they would agree to recommend him to the Government as ’ Voorlezer ’ of Trincomalee”. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: D.J. Potken, J.P. Stork; Deacon: B.F.C. de Haart. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 286

Censura Morum held on 27th September 1780 (p. 447)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Elder; D.J. Potken; Deacons: L. Perera and B.P.C. de Haart. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and approved and signed; and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The President thereafter tabled a letter which he had received, which, on being opened, was found to be from Amsterdam, dated 17th January 1779, containing a synodal Act of North Holland dated 28th July 1779, which was noted for necessary action as usual. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or any member of the congregation. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were read out and accepted for enrol- ment. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Stork and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. de Kretser and Ludekens; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons. The task of preparing the annual letters to our Lords Superiors (i.e. the Directors of the Dutch East India Company in Holland and the Classes) was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz; and there being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz, J.J. Fybrandsz and J.G. Manger; Elder: J.P. Stork; and Deacons: J. Vollenhoven, C. de Kretser and J.B. Ludekens.

Extraordinary meeting of 9th November 1780 (p. 448)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Elder: J. de Bordes; and deacon: J. Doebbratsz (all of them being ill). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was, con- vened solely to approve and sign and seal the letters to the Fatherland which had been prepared by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, which was done, and it was decided to dispose of them as usual; and also with the letter from Jaffna which had already been circulated to members. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz; Elders: D.J. Potken and J.P. Stork; Deacons: B.P.C. de Haart and L. Perera.

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1781 (p. 449)

Absent : Elder J. de Vos and Deacon: J. Doebbratsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 287 the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. Thereafter, the President tabled two letters, which, on being opened, were found to be one from Galle and the other from Amsterdam, the former enclosing the synodal Act of North Holland dated 27th June 1779, which was noted for necessary action as usual. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Stork. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Potken. Further, Mr. Kinbergen was elected as an elder in place of the late elder Mr. de Bordes, and in place of the three outgoing deacons Messrs, de Haart, Perera and Doebbratsz, Messrs. D.F. de Moor, N.N. van Sohsten and Auberts were elected, and it was at the same time decided to recommend the ’ Krankbezoeker ’ Mr. Helmers, who had arrived here from Trincoinalee, for appointment as Second ’ Voorlezer ’ and Schoolmaster of the Castle, with a request that he may be given favourable consideration in view of his good conduct, his long service and his great poverty. Whereafter, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Riders: J.P. Stork and D.J. Potken; and Deacon: L. Perera.

Censura Morum held on 10th January 1781 (p. 450)

After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum, proceeding to which no adverse reports were received. The service of Holy Communion was to be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Potken and de Vos. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were read and passed on for enrolment; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz, H. Philipsz; Elders: D. Potken and J.P. Stork; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens and C. de Kretser.

Ordinary meeting held on 2nd April 1781 (p. 451)

Absents : Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacons: C. de Kretser and J. Vollenhoven. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to attend to the normal business. Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively, and the service of Holy Communion in the Castle were entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos, and that in the outer city to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Stork. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 288

Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in Joost Pieter Mulder and his daughter Florentina Mulder requesting that their Trincomalee Church ’ attestaties ’ be respected, which was allowed, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.L. Kinbergen, J. de Vos and J.P. Stork.

Censura Morum held on 11th April 1781 (p. 452)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elder: J.L. Kinbergen; Deacon: J. Vollenhoven. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous censura morum meeting having then been read and approved and signed, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said they had nothing special to report, except that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled two ’ attestaties ’, to which no objections were raised, and the names of the newly-admitted Church members were passed on for due enrolment. The Rev. Mr. Manger reported that he had, at the request of the widow of Mr. Hendrik de Vos, admitted her as a guest at Holy Communion, on the condition that she obtains and furnished us with her ’attestatie’ from Jaffna. A letter addressed to this Consistory on being opened was found to be from the Galle Consistory, regarding the request of the bookkeeper, Hendrik Joan Ide for his ’attestatie’ (see the Church Inward Letter Hook). Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any member of the congregation, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Stork and the deacons Messrs. de Kretser and Vollenhoven. In the outer (Wolvendaal) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Those who had requests to make were then called in, and there came in firstly the book- keeper H.J. Ide with a written request to this Consistory (vide Inward Letter Book marked ’B’) to be allowed to participate at the Lord’s Table, which was granted. Mr. Dirk van den Driesen was, at his request, admitted as a guest at Holy Communion provided he obtains and furnishes his ’attestatie’ from Cochin. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.P. Stork and J. de Vos; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens, D. de Moor, J.S. Aubert and N.N. van Sohsten.

Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1781 (p. 454)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacons: J. Vollenhoven, C. de Kretser and J.B. Ludekens. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the President said that this Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 289 meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and. the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Mayer to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the office of Scriba was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken. The meeting then terminated with thanks giving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), Elders: J.L. Kinbergen and J.P. Stork; and the Deacon: C. de Kretser.

Censura Morum held on 27th June 1781 (p. 455)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: D.J. Potken; Deacons: N.N. van Sohsten and. C. de Kretser. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Two ’ attestaties ’ were then tabled in favour of the Ensign Mr. Marin and the young Miss Medller, together with the names of those who had made their Confession of Faith, and they were accepted for announcement from the pulpit and for enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum: no adverse reports were received against the conduct of any Church members; and the services of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church as well as that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church were entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Potken and the deacons Messrs. de Moor and Ludekens. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Manger said that he intends to get his pupils to preach at Negombo in order to gain experience (lit: by way of exercise) and asked what the meeting thought about this, and the meeting unanimously approved of it (lit: thought it was a good plan). The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz, J.G. Manger; Elders: J.L. Kinbergen and de J. de Vos; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens, D. de Moor and J.F. Aubert.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th September 1781 (p. 456)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elders: D. Potken and J. de Vos; Deacons: J. Vollenhoven and J.B. Ludekens. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. The Political Commissaris, who was then asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 290

were read and signed, and the office of President was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, and the office of Scriba was handed over by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz to the Rev. Mr. Manger. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. de Vos. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Stork. It was resolved to forward to the Government, along, with an extract of these proceedings, the First Book of Moses which was translated by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz into the Sinhalese language, and to request their approval to have it printed after prior revision for the use of the Sinhalese, congregation. Whereafter the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (President); Elders: J.L. Kinbergen and J.P. Stork.

Censura Morum held en 3rd October 1781 (p. 457)

Absent : Elder: J.D. Potken; Deacons: J. Vollenhoven and N.N. van Sohsten. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed. Thereafter, the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger said that they had done the house visits with brothers de Vos and Stork respectively, and that they had nothing special to report which had to be notified to this Consistory, only the Rev. Mr. Manger informed the meeting that the daughter of the Alderman (lit: Master of the Town) Mr. Stendel, who had arrived here from Jaffna, had requested to be allowed to partake as a guest at Holy Communion on one occasion, which was granted to her. No adverse reports having been received against the newly-admitted Church members they were accepted for due announcement and enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Stork and de Vos and the deacons Messrs. Aubert and van Sohsten, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (president), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: J.L. Kinbergen, J. de Vos, J.P. Stork; and Deacons: J.B. Ludekens, C. de Kretser, D.F. de Moor and J.F. Aubert.

Censura Morum held on 9th January 1782 (p. 458)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively. The Rev. Messrs. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen who had done the house visits in the Castle, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Potken who had done the house visits in the old City, said that they had nothing special to report. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 291

The newly-admitted Church members were approved, and their names were passed on for due announcement and enrolment. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Potken and the deacons Messrs. de Kretser and Vollenhoven, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received. Thereafter, in place of the outgoing brother elders Messrs. Potken, Stork and de Vos, and the deacons Messrs. Ludekens, Vollenhoven and de Kretser, Messrs. H. Leembruggen, D. Krayenhof and A. van der Hegge were elected as elders, and the Lieut, of the Burgery J.W. van Cuylenburg, the Junior Merchant C.F.W. Ranitsz and the bookkeeper Mr. Sezilles were elected as Deacons; and it was at the same time resolved to report these elections to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. The meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.L. Kinbergen and J.P. Stork; and Deacons: Messrs. D.F. de Moor, N.N. van Sohsten, C. de Kretser and J.F. Aubert.

Ordinary meeting held on 18th March 1782 (p. 459)

Absent : Elders: Messrs. D.J. Potken and J. de Vos; Deacons: Messrs. J. Vollenhoven and J.B. Ludekens. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government, having replied in the negative, the President tabled two extracts of resolutions of the Political Council regarding the translation of the first book of Moses into Sinhalese by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the approval of the newly-elected elders and deacons, which were noted for necessary action; and the minutes of the previous meeting were then read and approved and signed. Thereafter, the outgoing elder Mr. Stork and the deacon Mr. de Kretser, who were the only ones present, were heartily thanked by the President on behalf of all the members for their faithful services to this Consistory and to the congregation of this place, and they were led out of the meeting by the elder Mr. van der Hegge and the deacon Mr. Aubert. The Rev. Mr. Manger then handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. The following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Leembruggen. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Krayenhof; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Leembruggen, since the Rev. Mr. Fybrandtsz had officiated there for the Rev. Mr. Manger in the month of January with the elder Mr. Stork. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz tabled the second book of Moses which he had translated into Sinhalese, with a request that it be revised by one of the members of this Consistory Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 292 and then forwarded to the Press, which task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. R. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: J.L. Kinbergen, D. Krayenhof; Deacons: D.F. de Moor, J.B. Ludekens, J.F. Aubert, C.F.W. de Ranitsz and J.A. Sezilles.

Ordinary meeting held on 24th June 1782 (p. 462)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elder: H. Leembruggen (sick). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. The Political Commies saris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting of the 18th March were read and signed. The offices of Scriba and President were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Fybrandsz respectively; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kinbergen. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. van der Hegge. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled two ’ attestaties ’ in favour of the Junior Merchant, Burnant and Jan Bakker, which were noted for due announcement and enrolment; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Philipsz; Elders: J.L. Kinbergen, C.D. Krayenhof and A. van der Hegge; Deacons: D.F. de Moor, N.N. van Sohsten and J.F. Aubert.

Censura Morum held on 3rd July 1782 (p. 463)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz, and the elder J.L. Kinbergen. The meeting having opened with prayer, the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger re- ported that they had nothing special to report to the meeting on their recent house visits. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, after the reading and signing of the minutes of the previous meeting, no adverse (lit: particular) reports were received. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and van der Hegge and the deacons Messrs. Leembruggen and Aubert, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: C.D. Krayenhof and A. van der Hegge; Deacons: J.F. Aubert, D.F. de Moor, N.N. van Sohsten and C.F.W. de Ranitsz. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 293

Ordinary meeting held on 23rd September 1782 (p. 464)

(n.b. No names of absentes are entered in the minutes). The meeting having opened with prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous were approved and signed, and the letter from. Batavia dated 28th June 1782 and their general report on the state of the Churches in Netherlands India, which had been circulated to the members, were tabled, and they were to be filed in the Inward Correspondence Book for reply in due course. An extract of a resolution of the School Board of 6th May 1782 containing (lit: with) the order (lit: disposition) of His Excellency the Governor thereon regarding the examination of the five students was also read, and it was resolved to comply with that respected requisition, and the Rev. President was nominated to examine them and the date of the examination of the first student was fixed for the 14th of October next. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits preparatory to the services of Holy Communion: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Krayenhof. In the outer City and suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. van der Hegge. The request of a soldier seeking baptism, who wished to make his confession of faith for admission to Holy Communion, was granted. The celebration of Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in the month of July having been conducted by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, this duty on the next occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz assisted by the elder Mr. Krayenhof, and the admission of Church members prior to this supper will also be done by His Reverence. The student Ryklof Johannes Ebert came in and requested to be examined for the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’, which was allowed; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J.L. Kinbergen, C.D. Krayenhof and A. van der Hegge; Deacons: D.F. de Moor, N.N. van Sohsten and J.F. Aubert.

Censura Morum of 2nd October 1782 (p. 465)

Absent : Elder: A. van der Hegge; and Deacon: J.A.H. Sezilles. The meeting having opened with prayer, and. the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and approved and signed, the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits, except that Mrs. van den Berg was admitted as a guest at Holy Communion at her request. The newly-admitted Church members were accepted for due registration. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received regarding the conduct of any Church member. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Kinbergen and Krayenhof and the deacons Messrs. de Ranitsz and Sezilles; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 294

Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder: C.D. Krayenhof; Deacons: J.F. Aubert, C.F.W. de Ranitsz, N.N. van Sohsten and J.W. van Cuylenburg.

Extraordinary meeting held on the 14th and 28th October and 18th November 1782 (p. 466)

Absent : The Political Commissaris, Elder: C.D. Krayenhof, A. van der Hegge; Deacons: C.F.W. de Ranitsz and N.N. van Sohsten. In accordance with the resolution of this Consistory of the 23rd of September last, these being the dates fixed for the examination of the students from the Seminary, for which purpose too the bretheren were summoned, after invoking God’s holy name in prayer, each student who was to be examined having been called in on a particular day, and each of them having been successively asked to preach a short sermon from the pulpit from a given Bible text as follows: On the first day the student named Bernard Abraham preached on the last few words of the 16th verse of the 2nd Chapter of the 2nd Epistle of the Holy Apostle Paul to the Corinthians; on the next day, the student named Casparus Jongbloet preached on the words of the prophet Zachariah in Chapter 3 verse 9; and on the last day the student named Abraham Anthonis Engelbregt preached on the words of the Holy Scriptures found in the book of John the Evangelist Chapter 3 verese 14 and 15. And thereafter, each of them was questioned by the examiner on the fundamentals of natural and revealed Theology, which examination having lasted for soma time, the Rev. President asked the members of this Consistory for their comments, and they considered that the test was adequate (lit: sufficient), and the candidates were then asked to stand outside; and on Their Reverences being asked for their opinions on the examination held and whether the said students had adequately qualified at the same to be appointed to the grade of Proponent , Their Reverences confirmed (lit: testified) that they were sufficiently qualified for public preaching of the Word of Salvation as Proponents . The student Ryklof Johannes Ebert too having been examined at his request for appoint- ment to the office of ’ Krankbezoeker ’ in the fundamentals of our Reformed religion and in reading and singing, he was deemed to be suitable for this office; and it was at the same time decided to report accordingly on the above decisions to our Government along with an extract of these proceedings, and to recommend the three abovementioned candidates, namely: Giffenig, Jongbloet and Engelbregt for appointment as Proponents , and also the student Ebert for appointment as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ and ’ Voorlezer ’ at Negombo in place of the old and decrepit ’ Voorlezer ’ there Mr. Muller, who had incidentally asked to be discharged; And since the student named Philip de Silva often suffers from sore eyes, and his expression (i.e. intonation) in the preaching of God’s Word is not so good, and he at the game time seems to be more suitable for work as a Cleric, the meeting therefore resolved to recommend him to the Government for appointment as an Assistant; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 295

Signed: The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ); J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: C.D. Krayenhof and J.L. Kinbergen; and Deacons: D.F. de Moor, J.F. Aubert, J.P. van Cuylenburg and J.A.H. Sezilles.

Ordinary meeting held on 2nd January 1783 (p. 468)

Absent : The Political Commissaris. After invoicing Cod’s holy name in prayer, and the signing of the minutes of the previous meeting, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively, and the President tabled an extract from the Political Council regarding the students who were examined for appointment as Proponents , which was noted for due compliance, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and elder Kinbergen. In the Inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Van der Hegge. Proceeding then to the election of a new elder in place of the late Mr. Leembruggen, the Dessave Mr. de Cock was elected out of a double panel of nominations; and in place of the outgoing bretheren Messrs. de Moor, Aubert and van Sohsten, the Junior Merchant Rudolf Samuel Tavel and the bookkeepers Messrs. Gerrard Joan Fybrandsz and Jan Coenraad Pfyver were elected as Deacons; and it was resolved at the same time to report these elections to His Excellency the Governor for the favour of his approval. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger and H. Philipsz; Elders: C.D. Krayenhof and A. van der Hegge; and Deacon: D.F. de Moor.

Censura Morum held on 8th January 1783 (p. 469)

Absent : The Political Commissaris) the Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: A. van der Hegge; and Deacons: D.F. de Moor and J.A.H. Sezilles. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the house visits, said that they had nothing special to report. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no reports were received against the conduct of any of the Church members. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by elders Messrs. Kinbergen and van der Hegge and the deacons Messrs. de Moor and van Sohsten; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Thereafter the Rev. Mr. Manger reported that he had in the presence of the elder Mr. Kinbergen admitted the Military Captain Adrianus Cornelis Lever as a member of our congregation on his declaring his confession in the Augsburg Faith, whose name, as well as those of the newly-admitted Church members were passed on for due announcement from the pulpit and enrolment in the membership roll. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 296

There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ) and J.G. Manger: and the elder: C.D. Krayenhoff.

Ordinary meeting held on 7th April 1783 (p. 470)

Absent : Elder: C. de Cock and all the deacons except the outgoing deacon D.F. de Moor. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris having said that he had nothing to report on behalf of the Government, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. Thereafter, the outgoing deacon Mr. de Moor, who was the only one present, was thanked by the President for his faithful services and he was appropriately led out of the meeting. The offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. van der Hegge. In the old City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in the month of March with the elder Mr. Krayenhof, and this duty during the month of September was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. Finally, Mr. Holst was elected as an elder in place of Captain Kinbergen who had left for Jaffna, and it was resolved to report the same to His Excellency the Governor with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of his approval. Owing to the very heavy rain it was not possible to hold the Censuram Morum, and it was noted that the service of Holy Communion was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Cock and van der Hegge and the deacons Messrs. van Sohsten and Sezilles; and the names of the newly-admitted Church members were read and accepted for registration, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); and the Elders: Messrs. Krayenhoff and A. van der Hegge.

Ordinary meeting of 23rd June 1783 (p. 471)

Absent : Deacon J.A.H. Sezilles. The President having opened the meeting with prayer, gave a hearty welcome to the newly-elected brother Elders. Thereafter, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed. The election of Mr. Holst as an elder was approved by the Government, and he was duly installed, and the house visits prior to the forthcoming service of Holy Communion were arranged as follows:- In the Castle (Fort) Church - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and elder Mr. Krayenhof. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 297

In the old City and suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elders: C.D. Krayenhof, G.E. Holst and C. de Cock; and the Deacons: C.F.W. de Ranitsz and J.W. van Cuylenburg.

Censura Morum of 2nd July 1783 (p. 472)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Before doing so, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were accepted for enrolment after due announcement from the pulpit. Proceeding to the Censura Morum no reports were received against the conduct of any of the Church members. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. J. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Krayenhof and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Tavel and Sezilles; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The request of Anna Elizabeth Venking, the wife of a soldier, who had arrived here from Trincomalee, to be admitted as a member of the congregation was allowed; and the meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: C. Cock, G.E. Holst and A. van der Hegge; and the Deacons Messrs. C.F.W. de Ranitsz, G.J. Fybrandsz and J.W. van Cuylenburg.

Ordinary meeting held on 22nd September 1783 (p. 473)

Absent : the elder van der Hegge. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Goverment having replied in the neg- ative, the President said that this meeting was convened solely for the purpose of making arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Communion. Thereafter the minutes of the previous meeting were signed, and the Rev. Mr. Manger handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz; and the following arrangements were made for the house visits: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Mr. van der Hegge. In the innde and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Mayer and elder Mr. de Cock. The Synodal Acts and the letters which were recently brought over by the supply ship and circulated to members were noted for necessary action. Finally, the President having enquired who should be deputed to prepare the annual reports to the Fatherland and what matters should be mentioned in them, as the time for Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 298

the departure of the ships was near at hand, this task was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, it being his turn to do so, and it was also resolved to mention therein not only the state of the churches and schools according to the usual practice, but also to make mention about the native congregation, in compliance with the requisition of the Christian Synod, and also about Mr. Camp, about whom the Venerable Classis had enquired The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); J.G. Manger; Elders: C. de Cock and C.D. Krayenhof.

Censura Morum of 1st October 1783 (p. 474)

Absent : The Rev. J.G. Manger; Elder: C.D. Krayenhof; Deacons: J.A.H. Sezilles, J.C. Pfyver and R.S. Tavel. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in. order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no reports having been received against the conduct of any of the Church members, the service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by elders Messrs. de Cock and van der Hegge and deacons Messrs. Fybrandsz and Pfyver; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, the Scriba tabled the names of those who had made their Confession of Faith, and it was resolved to take the usual action on them. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: G.E. Holst and C. de Cock; Deacons: C.F.W. de Ranitsz and G.J. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum of 7th January 1784 (p. 475)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, the Church reports to the Fatherland were read; And since Messrs. Krayenhof and van der Hegge, whose terms of office as elders was due to expire, had asked to be released, the following were elected as elders in the place of these two persons, namely: the Captain of the Burgery G. Jongbloed and the Junior Merchant Mr. de Ranitsz; and in place of the three outgoing deacons Messrs. van Cuylenburg, de Ranitsz and Sezilles, the following were elected as deacons, namely: Messrs. van der Smagt, Ludekens and van Dort; and it was resolved to report these elections to the Government with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were accepted for due announcement in Church and enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against the conduct of any members of the Church. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 299

As no business was conducted at the ordinary meeting on the 29th of December, no minutes could therefore be recorded, except that it was noted that the house visits in the Castle were to be done by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Kraayenhoff, and that in the outer City by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. van der Hegge in place of the elder Mr. Holst. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: C. de Cock and C.F.W. de Ranitsz; and the Deacon: G.J. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum held on 8th April 1784 (p. 476)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz (on school visits); Deacon: J.C. Pfyver. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the newly-elected brother elders and deacons were welcomed with God’s blessings, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and no special reports were made in regard to the recent house visits. The names of the newly-admitted Church members were accepted for due announcement and enrolment. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Cock and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Tavel and Fybrandsz; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding then to the nomination and election of two brother elders in place of the late J.E. Jongbloed and Mr. C.F.W. de Ranitsz who has been appointed at ’Dispencier’ at Galle, the following were elected as elders by a majority of vote, namely: the Junior Merchants Johannes Reintour and Mattheus Raket; and it was resolved at the same time to report the same to the Government with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. At the ordinary meeting on the 29th of March no business was conducted, except that the house visits in the Castle were entrusted to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Holst, and that in the old City and its suburbs to the Rev. Mr. danger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: G.E. Holst and C. de Cock; Deacon: G.J. Fybrandsz.

Ordinary meeting of 21st June 1784 (p. 477)

Absent : Elder: J. Reintous; Deacons: R.S. Tavel and J.C. Pfyver. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy Communion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed, and the Rev. Mr. Manger handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and elder Mr. Raket. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 300

In the inner and outer city - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Mr. Reintous. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled a letter from Jaffna and an extract from the resolutions of the Church Consistory there regarding the unbecoming conduct of Anna Eliz- abeth Hogenschilt, widow of Mr. Stol, and Anna Kristin Pop and her daughter Wilhelmina Adriana Aue; whereupon it was resolved to inform them at the house visits or through the Sexton that they should abstain from participating at Holy Communion until such time as they show proofs of better behaviour than that which they had displayed at Jaffna; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ) and J.G. Manger; Elders: C. de Cock, G.E. Holst, K. Raket; Deacon: G.J. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum of 30th June 1784 (p. 478)

Absent : Deacon: R.S. Tavel. The meeting; having opened with prayer, the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Reintour who had done the house visits in the Castle said that they had nothing special to report on their commission; and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Raket who had done the house visits in the inner and outer City reported that they had admitted Mr. van Halm at his request as a guest at the Lord’s Table; and that as they could not meet the widows Stol and Aue and the daughter of the latter at their house visit, according to the decision at the last meeting, they had been told by the Sexton that they should abstain from the Lord’s Table. The names of the newly-admitted Church members, and an ’attestatie’ in favour of Mr. Leembruggen, which was tabled by the Rev. Mr. Manger, were accepted for due announce- ment and enrolment. No adverse reports were received against the conduct of any of the Church members, except the bad conduct of Mrs. Isendorp, whereupon it was resolved to inform her through the Sexton that she should totally abstain from participation at the Lord Table. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrust to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Reintour and Raket and the deacons Messrs. Pfyver and van der Smagt, and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); J.G. Manger; Elders; G.E. Holst, J. Reintous, M. Raket; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens, G.J. Fybrandsz, J.G. Pfyver and van der Smagt.

Ordinary meeting of 20th October 1784 (p. 479)

Absent : Deacon: J.G. Pfyver. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the Political Commissaris who was asked whether he had anything to report on behalf of the Government having replied in the negative, Mr. Hugonis, who had recently arrived here from the Fatherland, presented his credentials, which were respected by this Consistory; and the minutes of the previous meeting were then read and signed. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 301

Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Manger informed the meeting that he had read over the second book of Moses which the Consistory had given over to him for revision with the assistance of the Maha Mudaliyar and the tombo-keeper, and, that he had noted (i.e. indicated) the portions which appeared to him to need amendment and handed it back to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz; whereupon it was resolved to request the approval of our respected Government with an extract of these proceedings to send this second book of Moses to the Press. Further, the Synodal letter received from the Fatherland was read, and it was resolved to send the Synodal Acts to the bretheren at Galle for their perusal; and it was also decided that the Rev. Mr. Philips should prepare the annual reports to the Fatherland for this year. Arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits as follows:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Holst. In the outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: J. Reintous, K. Raket; and Deacon: G.J. Fybrandsz.

Censura Morum held on 29th October 1784 (p. 480)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). The meeting having opened with prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the brother elder Mr. Holst said that they had done the house visits in the Castle and had nothing special to report to this Consistory, and the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. de Cock who had done the house visits in the old City reported likewise. The newly admitted Church members who had made their Confession of Faith were ac- cepted for due announcement and enrolment; and at the same time the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had ministered at the Leper Asylum in place of the Rev. Mr. Manger, which duty on the next occasion was entrusted, to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz and the elder Mr. Holst. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against the conduct of any member of this Consistory or any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. de Cock and Holst and the deacons Messrs. Ludekens and Fybrandsz; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz assisted by the same bretheren. The translation into Sinhalese of the third and fourth books of Moses by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Manger for revision, and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); H. Philipsz; Elder: J. Reintous; and the Deacons: G.J. Fybrandsz, J.C. Pfyver and J.B. Lidekens. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 302

Ordinary meeting held on 3rd January 1785 (p. 481)

Absent : The Political Commissaris, the Rev. Mr. Hugonis; Elder: G.E. Holst; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens and R.S. Tavel. The meeting having opened with prayer, the President said that it was convened in order to make the usual arrangements for the services of Holy approve and sign the letters to the Fatherland which were prepared by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz. His Reverence also tabled two letters, one being from the Classis of Delft, Delfland and Schieland, dated at Schiedam the 22nd December 1783, and containing the Synodal Acts of South Holland held that year at Woerden, and the other being from the Church Consistory at Batavia dated 7th October 1784, containing their report on the state of the Churches in the Indies for the years 1783 and 1784, and also an extract of a resolution of the Political Council regarding the appointment of the Hon. Mr. P. Sluisken as Hoofd Administrateur of Colombo and a membership ’attestatie’ of the Rev. F. Wilhelm Capelle, who was welcomed and given his seat in the Session with the blessings of God. Thereafter, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the of- fices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Manger and Philipsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Raket. In the old City and suburbs - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and elder Mr. Reintous. The letters to the Fatherland were also approved and signed, and they were to be forwarded for transmission as usual. Those who had requests to make having then been called in, there came in the Sexton of the Castle (Fort) Church Jan Christiaan Reikheer requesting this Consistory to permit him to return home as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ on the ship ’Triton’, and as his request had already been made to His Excellency the Governor and allowed to him by His Excellency on the condition that his wife should be provided for here, the meeting therefore granted his request in these circumstances, and resolved that the said Sexton should be examined by the President and the Scriba ; and the seminarian Willem ... who had made a similar request to this Consistory was told that he should await a further suitable occasion; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.G. Manger (President), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elder: M. Raket.

Censura Morum held on 12th January 1785 (p. 482)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; and after the signing of the minutes of the previous meeting, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except the Rev. Mr. Manger who reported that he had not invited Mrs. Helmers to participate at the Lord’s Table because she had not reconciled herself with her husband and that His Reverence had admonished her to do so. No objections having been raised by any of the bretheren regarding the conduct of the newly-admitted Church members, they were accepted for due announcement and enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 303

The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Reintous and Raket and the deacons Messrs. Pfeiffer and van Dort, and that in the Wolvendaal Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding further to the election of new elders and deacons: out of four nominees the Junior Merchants J. Philip Stork and Hendrik Diederik Dias were elected by a majority of vote as new elders in place of the elders Messrs. C. de Cock and G.E. Holst, and out of six nominees, the bookkeepers Harmanus Meyr, Barend Lodewyk Potker and Thomas Garrard Hofland were elected as new deacons in place of the deacons Messrs. Tavel, Fybrandsz and Pfeiffer. Thereafter, the sexton of the Castle (Fort) Church Johan Christiaan Reykheer, who had requested to be allowed to return home as ’ Krankbezoeker ’ in accordance with the order of His Excellency, having presented a letter signed by his wife, testifying that she was provided by her husband with maintenance for a period of three years, gave full satisfaction to this Consistory in reading and singing, and having also been examined by the President and the Scriba in the tenets (lit: truths) of our pure religion, was found to be reasonably efficient. Finally, among those who had requests to make, there came in the Sexton of the Wolven- daal Church Philip Salomon de Waas, who applied to this Consistory for the vacant post of Sexton of the Castle (Fort) Church on the departure of the abovementioned Sexton J.C. Reykheer, saying that he (Mr. Waas) had on several occasions satisfactorily, so he believes, performed this duty during the illness of the Sexton Mr. Reykheer; And it was resolved at the same time to report all the above to our Government, along with an extract of these proceedings, for the favour of their approvel according to their discretion. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: J. Reintous and M. Raket; and the Deacon: A. Van Dort.

Ordinary meeting held on 14th March 1785 (p. 484)

Absent : The Political Commissaris and Elder J. Reintous. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the newly-elected elder Bro. J.P. Stork was welcomed to the Session with God’s blessings; and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Stork. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr.Manger and the elder Mr. Raket. Thereafter, the soldier named Jan Specht, who had applied for the post of ’ Voorlezer ’ and Schoolmaster of Tutucorin, was referred for examination by the President, who will report thereon to this Consistory at its next session; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), J.G. Manger; Elder: M. Raket; and Deacons: A.P. van der Smagt and J.B. Ludekens. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 304

Censura Morum held on 23rd March 1785 (p. 485)

Absent : The Political Commissaris, Rev. J.G. Manger; Elders: J. Reintous and J.P. Stork; Deacons: H. Meier and J.B. Ludekens. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. But before proceeding thereto, the minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were read and approved and signed. Hereafter, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. Thereafter, the list of names of the newly admitted Church members was tabled by the Scriba , and no objections having been raised by anyone, it was resolved to recommend to the Government the soldier Jan Specht, who had applied at the last session for the post of schoolmaster and ’ Voorlezer ’ of Tutucorin and had been examined by the President and the Rev. Mr. Philipsz for the same, and was found to be capable, along with an extract of these proceedings. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports having been received against the life and conduct of any Church member, the service of Holy Communion for the Dutch congregation was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Raket and Stork and the deacons Messrs. van Dort and van der Smagt, and the service for the native congregation was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz reported that he had ministered at the Leper Asylum in the month of February, which was duly noted, and this duty on the present occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, it being his turn to do so, assisted by the elder Mr. Raket. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder: M. Raket; Deacons: A.P. van der Smagt, B.L. Potger and T.G. Hofland.

Ordinary meeting of 20th June 1785 (p. 486)

Absent : The Political Commissaris, the Rev. H. Philipsz and elder J.P. Stork. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. The minutes of the previous meeting were then approved and signed, and the newly-elected Bro. Elder Mr. Lever was welcomed with God’s blessings. The offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Manger respectively, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrands tabled two extracts, one containing the call (i.e. appointment) of the Rev. Mr. Hugonis to Jaffna and the appointment of the Rev. Capelle to Galle, and the other containing the decision of the Government regarding the differences with the Court of Justice regarding the delivering over of the baptism register. Finally, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Fort - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and elder Mr. Reintous. Outside the Fort - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Lever. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 305

Signed : The Rev. Messrs, J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elders: M. Raket, J. Reintous and Lever; and Deacon: J.B. Ludekens.

Censura Morum held on 29th June 1785 (p. 487)

(No names of absentees are entered). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed, and the names of the newly-admitted Church members were accepted for due announcement and enrolment. The bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report to the meeting. Thereafter, the service of Holy Communion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Reintous and Lever and the deacons Messrs. Meier and Ludekens, and the service for the Sinhalese congregation was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Finally, it was decided by a majority of vote to recommend Mr. Pyper to the Government for appointment as Sexton of the outer (Wolvendaal) Church since Mr. Ribehard, who had previously also applied for this post, has a means of livelihood as schoolmaster of the Diaconate. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), J.G. Manger ( Scriba ); Elder: M. Raket; Deacons: J.B. Ludekens, T.G. Hofland and B.L. Potger.

Ordinary meeting held on 19th September 1785 (p. 488)

(n.b. Mo names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits: - In the Castle - by Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Lever. Outside the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Manger and the elder Mr. Raket. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum with the elder Mr. Raket, and this duty on the next occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the elder Mr. Lever. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Manger requested to be furnished with his Church certificate of discharge, which was granted to him. Finally, the offices of President and Scriba were handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Hugonies respectively; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President) and Hugonis; Eldert: J. Reintous and A.P. Lever; and Deacon: J.B. Ludekens.

Censura Morum of 28th September 1785 (p. 488)

(No names of absentees are entered). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum; whereupon the minutes of the previous Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 306

meeting were approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report. The names of the newly-admitted Church members and of some who had come over with their ’ attestaties ’ were handed over to the Scriba for necessary action. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. ranger, assisted by the elders Messrs. Reintous and Raket and the deacons Messrs. Meier and Potger; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons; and the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz and Hugonis; Elders: J. Reintous, M. Raket and A.P. Lever; Deacons: H. Meier, B.L. Potger, T.G. Hofland and J.B. Ludekens.

Ordinary meeting held on 2nd January 1786 (p. 489)

Absent : The Rev. H. Philipsz. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Lever. Outside the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Hugonis and the elder Mr. Reintous. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz and M. Hugonis.

Censura Morum held on 11th January 1786 (p. 489)

(No names of absentees are enterd in the minutes) After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. The minutes of the previous Censura Morum meeting were then read and approved and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visit said that they had nothing special to report on their commission, except the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz who presented an ’attestatie’ of Mr. Sambland and his wife who had come over here from Galle, which, along with the names of the newly-admitted Church members were noted for due enrolment. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against the life and conduct of any of the present or absent members of this Consistory or any member of the congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Reintous and Lever and the deacons Messrs. van Dort and van der Smagt. No progress haying been made in the revision of the 3rd and 4th books of Moses mimed Leveticus and Numbers, which was translated into Sinhalese by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, and which was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Manger in the year 1784 for revision, this duty was now, on a request made to this Consistory by the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hugonis for revision with the assistance of the Mohottiaar of the Governor’s Gate and Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 307

the School Tombokeeper, and it was resolved to report accordingly to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Philipsz and Hugonis; Deacons: H. Meier, B.L. Potger and T.G. Hofland.

Extraordinary meeting of 16th January 1786 (p. 491)

Absent : The Political Commissaris After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the annual letters to the Fatherland which had been prepared by the Rev. Mr. Hugonis were approved, signed and sealed for transmission along with the Company’s documents. Proceeding thereafter to the election of new brother elders and deacons, out of a double panel of nominations, the following were elected by a majority of votes as elders of this City in place of the outgoing bretheren Elders Messrs Raket and Reintous and the late Mr. J.P. Stork: namely, the Captain of the Burgery Mr. Paff and the Junior Merchants J. Vollenhoven and P.B.C. de Haart; and out of six nominations, the following were elected as Deacons of this City in place of the outgoing brother deacons A. van Dort, A.P. van der Smagt and J.B. Ludekens, namely: the Grand Master of the City F. Wolkers, the Secretary of the Orphan Chamber J.A.H. Sezilles and the bookkeeper Cornelis de Kretser; and it was also resolved to report the same to the Government along with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of their approval. Signed : Elder: A.C. Lever and Deacon: B.L. Potger.

Ordinary meeting of 3rd April 1786 (p. 492)

(No names of absentees are entered). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to make the usual arrangements for the forthcoming services of Holy Com- munion. Thereafter the newly-elected brother elders Messrs. Vollenhoven, de Haart and Paff were welcomed with God’s blessings. The offices of President and Scriba were then handed over to the Rev. Messrs. Philipsz and Fybrandsz respectively, and the following arrangements were made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Fort - by the Rev. Mr. Hugonis and elder De Haart. Outside the Fort - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Paff. Finally, the pupils in the Seminary named Johan Gerard de Vos and Philippus Harmanus Helmers, the former of whom was a candidate for. the post of ’ Krankbezoeker ’ and ’ Voorlezer ’ of Kalutara and the latter for the post of Schoolmaster of the Castle here, having been examined on the fundamentals of our Reformed Religion and in reading, writing and singing, and found to be suitable for these appointments, it was resolved to recommend them to the Government for appointment to the said posts, along with an extract of these proceedings. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 308

Signed : Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), The Rev. Hugonis; Elder: Mr. Paff; and the Deacons: B.L. Potger and T.G. Hofland.

Censura Morum held on 12th April 1786 (p. 493)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed. Thereafter the Rev. Messrs. Fybrandsz and Hugonis said that they had nothing special to report on their recent house visits. The list of names of the newly-admitted Church members was handed over by the President to the Scriba for due enrolment. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hugonis, with the assistance of the elders Messrs. Paff and Vollenhoven and the deacons Messrs. Hofland and Meier, and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren; and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Hugonis (President), J.J. Fybrandsz; Elders: Mr. Paff and B.P.C. de Haart; and the Deacons: F. Wolkers, T.G. Hofland and B.L. Polger.

Ordinary meeting held on 21st June 1786 (p. 494)

Absent : The Political Commissaria, The Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: J. Vollenhoven and J.B.C. de Haart; Deacons: H. Meier and T.G. Hofland. The meeting having opened with prayer, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed, and the Rev. Mr. Hugonis took over the office of President and handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybnandsz. The following arrangements were then made for the forthcoming house visits:- In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Vollenhoven. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Hugonis and the elder Mr. Paff. The President tabled 4 extracts of resolutions, which were read and found to be the two first being extracts of resolutions of the Political Council of Ceylon of the 26th of April and the 9th of May last, regarding the translation of the 5 books of Moses into Tamil by the Rev. Mr. de Melho and the examination of the Catechism Masters ... Mattheus and ... Ondaatje for appointment as Proponents . The third extract was from the resolutions of the School Board, with the order of His Excellency thereon, regarding permission for the student Philipsz to be also examined for appointment as Proponent . The 4th extract was from the Board of Deacons (i.e. the Diaconate) regarding a request addressed to them by the inmates of the Poor Home. These are all filed and were duly considered; and in regard to the first extract, it was resolved to delegate the Predikants Messrs. Fybrandsz and Hugonis (the Rev. Mr. Philipsz being ill) to have the said translation of the Rev. Mr. de Melho revised (lit: read over) by some capable Tamil scholars, in compliance with the respected wish of the Government and to obtain their views and opinions thereon and submit a report thereafter. In regard to the second extract, it was resolved to postpone the examination of the Catechism Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 309

Master Mr. Ondaatje as well as that of the student Philipsz who was mentioned in the third extract, until the arrival of the second Catechism Master Mr. Ondaatje of Jaffna who has already been summoned to come over here from Jaffna for this purpose, so that they could be jointly examined. Proceeding then to the request made to the brother Deacons by the inmates of the Poor Home which was referred by that Board to this Consistory, for authority to be granted to the teacher of this Poor Home Mr. Philip Jansz to minister in the so called Tamil school next to the, Church graveyard on Sundays and feast days, as it was done in former times, by reading, catechising, etc. in the Portuguese language, and since his services, according to his statement, are not required at the Sinhalese services in the Wolvendaal Church, and as this request was beneficial (i.e. of advantage) for the progress of their spiritual wellbeing, and as the person whose services are asked for is suitable and capable for such work, it was resolved to recommend the same to His Excellency our Governor with an extract of these proceedings for the favour of his approval. Finally, brother Potger tabled an ’attestatie’ in favour of Just. Rutg. Visser, signed by the Galle Predikant the Rev. Mr. Capelle, which was respected, and the meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Hugonis (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder: Mr. Paff; and Deacons: B.L. Potger.

Censura Morum held on 28th June 1786 (p. 496)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; the Rev. H. Philipsz; Elder: J. Vollenhovfin and the Deacon: H. Meier. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the minutes of the last Censura Morum meeting and. also a. second meeting of the 21st of this month were read and signed, and the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report on their commission, except that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled an ’attestatie’ in favour of Mrs. Geertruida Wilhelmina Medeler, which, along with the names of the newly-admitted Church members, were noted for due announcement and enrolment. Thereafter, the service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Paff and Vollenhoven and the Deacons Messrs. Wolkers and Potger; and that in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or again any member of the congregation here, except that men- tion was made of the bad rumours which were spread throught the entire City regarding the Junior Merchant Mr. Oubert and the widow Mrs. La Vaber; wherefore, in order to prevent any offence and scandal, it was resolved to ask both of them, through the Sexton, to abstain from the Lord’s Table. Proceeding thereafter to comply with the respected requisition of our Government con- tained in the extract from the Political Council of the 26th of April last to examine whether the translation of the 5 books of loses into Tamil by the Rev. Mr. de Melho was com- prehensible or not by the ordinary man, and in case it was found to be incomprehensible, Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 310 whether it could not be simplified in some way or other, the following persons who were considered to be the most capable Tamil scholars for this purpose were summoned to come in to the meeting, namely: Franciscus Paulus, Salomon Wierappa, Adriaan Frans Fernando, Cilembre Poelle, Philippoe Addeman, Domingo Anendappa, Zoza Appa, Franciscus Jansz, Jan Fernando, Abraham Rodrigo, Matthys Jurriaan Ondaatje and Gabriel Ondaatje, and the said translation was handed over to them, and each one was made to read it from Gen- esis Chapters 3 and 49 and Deuteronomy Chapter 33, and after this was done, they were asked whether they understood everything which they had read and what they thou of the translation; whereupon they answered that they had difficulty in reading it well and much more difficulty in understanding what they had read, since the style which had been used was very high-sounding. Whereafter, they were asked to translate Genesis Chapter 49 vs. 10 into Dutch, and those who ware not conversant in Dutch were asked to do so in Portuguese, just to ascertain whether the Tamil terms used therein by the Rev. Mr. de Melho were appropriately applied, or whether, as the Missionaries say, they were obsolete; and it was observed from their translations, as well as from the similar expressions (i.e. terms) of others who, did not understand either Dutch or Portuguese, that the words therein were quite appropriate; Further they were asked to read some other Chapters from it, such as Genesis Chapters 22, 39 and 40, and on their being asked whether these Chapters were not more understandable, they replied that although they were more understandable, nevertheless the entire translation was so skimmed over with peculiar (lit: selected) words, and that even the proper (i.e. personal) names such as Isaak, Josef and others, were expressed in such exalted terms and expressions in Tamil that it can not be understood by the ordinary man; Further, on being asked whether, if the words which could not be understood by the ordinary man are explained (i.e. clarified) in the margin of the translation, this translation would not be of much benefit, they replied that they would in that case be useful, but that they were doubtful (lit: feared) at the same time whether many readers would take the least trouble to read the same with advantage, besides, that it would then be a bulky (lit: voluminous) work; but since the Rev. Mr. de Melho had based this translation on the pattern of the New Testament, making use of the same style as His Reverence is adopting in regard, to the New Testament, it should therefore be of great benefit to every Tamil and be used by them with much advantage like the New Testament on which His Reverence is now busy with much benefit and advantage. Whereafter, they were discharged along with the others, and it was resolved and decided to inform His Excellency the Governor of the steps taken by this Consistory and of the opinions and statements of these scholars, along with an extract of these proceedings. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Hugonis (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elders: F.M. Paff, P.B.C. de Haart; Deacons: B.L. Potger, J.A.H. Sezilles and F. Wolkers.

Extraordinary meeting held on 14th August 1786 (p. 499)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Rev. H. Philipsz; Elders: J. Vollenhoven and B.P.C. de Haart; Deacons: H. Meier and F. Wolkers. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 311

The meeting having been opened with Prayer, the President said that it was convened specially to examine the student Christoffel Philipsz and the 2nd Catechism teacher Matthys Jurriaan Ondaatje according to the decision at the session held on the 21st of June on the respected requisition in the extract from the Political Council dated the 9th of May. Whereupon, they were then called in, and asked to mount the pulpit one after the other (i.e. in turn) and to preach a sermon on texts given to them by the examiner; and after this was satisfactorily done by them for some time, the Rev. Mr. Hugonis then proceeded to examine them in theology chiefly on all the fundamentals of natural and revealed theology, which examination having lasted for soma time, the President asked the candidates to re- main outside, and asked the meeting for their opinions on the examination and whether the examinees had given adequate satisfaction to be admitted to the grade of native Proponent and for public preaching duties, to which they unanimously replied in the affirmative; and it was resolved to inform His Excellency the Governor accordingly, together with an extract of these proceedings; and the meeting then terminated with thanks to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. Hugonis (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ); Elder: F.M. Paff; Deacons: B.L. Potger, C. de Kretser and J.A.H. Sezilles.

Censura Morum held on 27th September 1786 (p. 500)

(n.b. No names of absentees are entered in the minutes). After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report, except that the widow Mrs. Aue and her daughter, about whom mention, was made in the resolution of the 21st of June 1784, had earnestly responded thereto to be permitted to participate again at the Lord’s Supper, which was allowed after first obtaining the opinions of the members, since her conduct was irreproachable. Thereafter, the letters sent to us by the Classes of Amsterdam, of Delft and of Rotterdam were read, and the Rev. Mr. Hoffman who was recommended by the firstmentioned Classis was welcomed with God’s blessings. Regarding the services of Holy Communion, the service in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hugonis, assisted by the elders Messrs. Paff and de Haart and the deacons Messrs: Kretser and Sezilles; and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the abovementioned bretheren. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H. Philipsz (President), Hugonis ( Scriba ), J.J. Fybrandsz and P.L. Hoffman; Elders: F.M. Paff and H. Meier; Deacons: J.A.H. Sezilles and P.L. Potger.

Censura Morum held on 10th January 1787 (p. 501)

Absent : Elders: J. Vollenhoven, B.P.C. de Haart; and Deacon: C. de Kretser. The meeting having been opened with prayer, and the minutes of the previous meeting having been read and signed, the President tabled an extract received from the Political Council regarding the appointment of the new Proponents . The Rev. Mr. Hugonis and the elder Mr. de Haart, who had done the house visits in the Castle, and the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Paff, who had done the house Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 312 visits in the outer and inner City, said that they had nothing special to report on their commissions. The Rev. Mr. Hugonis tabled a list of names of the newly-admitted Church members and also an ’attestatie’ in favour of the Ensign L. Claas, which were passed on for necessary action as usual. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received against the life and conduct either of any present or absent, member of this Consistory or against the conduct of any member of the Church. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Vollenhoven and Paff and the Deacons Messrs. Meier and Hofland; and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. The letters to the Fatherland which were prepared by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz were approved and signed and sealed for transmission along with the Company’s papers. Finally, the brother deacons having requested to be released on the expiry of their terms of office, their request was allowed; and proceeding immediately to the nomination and election of new Deacons, out of a panel of six nominees, the Ensign of the Burgery Petrus Henrikus van Cuylenburg, the Secretary of the Landraad Roosemallecocq and the bookkeeper Carolus Pompeus were elected by a majority of votes as Deacons of this City in place of the outgoing Deacons Marmanus Meier, Barend Lodewyk Potger and Thomas Gerrard Hofland; and in place of the brother elder Mr. Lever who was due to leave for Galle, out of a double panel of nominations, the outgoing deacon Harmanus Meier was elected by a majority of votes as Elder; and it was at the same time resolved to report these elections to the Government for the favour of their approval. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. J.J. Fybrandsz (President), H. Philipsz ( Scriba ), J.L. Hoffman; Elders: F.M. Paff and H. Meier; Deacons: J.A.H. Sezilles and F. Wolkers.

Censura Morum held on Wednesday 4th April 1787 (p. 503)

Absent : The Rev. J.J. Fybrandsz (on school visits); Elder: J. Vollenhoven; and Deacon: V. Roosmalecocq (both of them without excuse). The Rev. Mr. Philipsz officiated as President in the absence of the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and opened the meeting with prayer. The Rev. Mr. Hoffman tabled a list of names of the newly-admitted Church members who were admitted by him on Monday the 2nd of April, and also of those who had come over to us from elsewhere with their Church ’ attestaties ’ and their names will be found entered in the Church membership rolls. Thereafter the Rev. Mr. Philipsz took over the office of President, and the office of Scriba was handed over to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman. The house visits both in the Castle as well as in the old City and the suborbs was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman, assisted by the elder Vollenhoven in the Castle and the elder Mr. Paff in the old City etc. The service of Holy Communion in the Castle (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman, assisted by the elders Messrs. Paff and Meier and the deacons Messrs. Sezilles and Wolkers; and the services in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 313

Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same brother elders and deacons; and the ministration at the Leper Asylum was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman, assisted by the elder Mr. de Haart. The Rev. Mr. Philipsz informed the meeting that he had administered Holy Communion during his recent school visits in the month of February at the outposts of Rammukkana, Agalawatta, Cotta and Nagamuwa. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, everything was found to be peaceful and quiet. It was also resolved to end the synodal acts of North and South Holland to the Church Consistory of Jaffna for their perusal, and this duty was delegated to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman as Scriba , which he undertook to do in a few days time. Finally, it was suggested that it would be necessary to bring to the notice of the Political Council that the Church in the Castle (Fort), which, had remained dilapidated (lit: broken down) for some time, should be, repaired, and since we understand (lit: have heard) that the Government of this City had written thereover in much detail to Batavia, it was resolved to discuss the same on a subsequent occasion, and that in the meanwhile, the above proceedings be recorded by the Scriba in the Church (Consistory) minutes as proof that this Consistory is not altogether insouciant over this matter. In conclusion, the Rev. Mr. Hoffman reported that he had issued Church ’ attestaties ’ to Mr. and Mrs. Lever who were due to leave for Galle and to the Rev. Mr. Hugonis and his wife who were due to proceed to Jaffna, on their requesting to be furnished with the same, and also to the widow Mrs. Hugonis who was also proceeding to Jaffna and a baptismal certificate in respect of the child of the Rev. Mr. Hugonis. After the President had given thanks to God in the name of Jesus Christ, the meeting terminated with harmong among the members. Signed : The Rev. Mr. H.L. Hoffman (President); Elders: F.M. Paff, H. Meier, B.P.C. de Haart; Deacons: C. de Kretser and F. Wolkers.

Ordinary meeting held on 18th January 1787 (p. 505)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Deacons: J.A.M. Sezilles and F. Wolkers. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer and the reading and signing of the minutes of the previous meeting, the Rev. Mr. Philipsz handed over the office of President to the Rev. Mr. Hoffman, who handed over the office of Scriba to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz. Thereafter, the Rev. Mr. Hoffman reported that he had administered Holy Communion at the Leper Asylum in the month of April last with the elder Mr. de Haart, which was duly noted, and this duty on the next occasion was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Vollenhoven. Arrangements for the forthcoming house visits were then made as follows: - In the Castle - by the Rev. Mr. Hoffman and the elder Mr. de Haart. In the inner and outer City - by the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz and the elder Mr. Meier. There being no other business, the meeting terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. H.L. Hoffman (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), H. Philipsz; Elder: F.M. Paff, B.P.C. de Haart and H. Meier; and the Deacon: C. de Kretser. Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo, Ceylon – Summaries of the Minutes – Vol 4A/3 314

Censura Morum held on 27th June 1787 (p. 506)

Absent : The Political Commissaris; Elder: J. Vollenhoven; and Deacon: J.A.H. Sezilles. After invoking God’s holy name in prayer, the President said that this meeting was con- vened in order to hold the usual Censura Morum. Thereafter, the bretheren who had done the recent house visits said that they had nothing special to report on their commission, ex- cept that the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz tabled an ’attestatie’ in favour of Hendrik Aldons and his wife Anna Maria Jaubden, which was to be noted for registration as usual, and similarly too with the names of the newly-admitted Church members which were tabled by His Reverence. Proceeding to the Censura Morum, no adverse reports were received either against any member of this Consistory or against any members, of our congregation. The service of Holy Communion in the inner (Fort) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Fybrandsz, assisted by the elders Messrs. Vollenhoven and de Haart and the deacons Messrs. de Kretser and Van Cuylenburg; and the service in the outer (Wolvendaal) Church was entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Philipsz, assisted by the same bretheren. Proceeding then to the election of a new Deacon in place of the late Mr. Carolus Pompeus, out of a double panel of nominations, the Junior Merchant and Second Auditor here Mr. van Sohsten was unanimously elected, and it was at the same time resolved to report the same to His Excellency the Governor for the favour of his approval. The meeting then terminated with thanksgiving to God. Signed : The Rev. Messrs. F.L. Hoffman (President), J.J. Fybrandsz ( Scriba ), Elders: F.M. Paff, B.P.O. de Haart and H. Meier; and the Deacons; C. de Kretser, F. Wolkers, P.H. van Cuylenburg and V. Roosmalecocq.