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Perhaps no one person in the Associate Reformed Church of that era made a greater contribution of service, or caused a greater degree of controversy than John M. Mason. He had a brilliant mind, an eloquent manner of speech, and a boundless capacity to work. He was, some would say, a man ahead of his time, and impatient to wait on others to catch up with him. — Ray A. King, A History of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, p. 119
It was 250 years ago today, on March 19, 1770, that John Mitchell Mason was born. He was a major force in early 19th century American Presbyterianism, and most especially, within the Associate Reformed Church. His writings advocating more frequent observance of communion, and on occasional communion; on lotteries; concerning the election of Thomas Jefferson; and on religious controversy show his willingness to engage and challenge others on disputed matters. But while he challenged the church, and those outside the church, he loved and labored for God’s kingdom in America and around the world. He helped to establish and organize a theological seminary for the Associate Reformed Church in 1804, he founded The Christian’s Magazine in 1806, and he served as President of Dickinson College, in additional to his ministerial labors.
Four volumes of his Works, and other writings, along with a volume (by his son-in-law) of his memoirs and correspondence, are available to peruse at Log College Press. Also, be sure to take note of Mason’s place in Robert R. Lathan’s History of the Associate Reformed Synod of the South, To Which is Prefixed a History of the Associate Presbyterian and Reformed Presbyterian Churches (1882). John M. Mason was a 19th century giant among other giants of early American Presbyterianism, and his 250th birthday is the perfect time to remember his contributions to the Church, which were extensive. To God be the glory for such a servant who labored diligently for his kingdom!
