In these old churches most of the patriot statesmen of Virginia served as Parish Vestrymen. From them proceeded an influence which sanctified the homes of Virginia which have ever been the units of her civilization and the glory of her life. From these ancient church altars the fire was taken which kindled the flame of devotion upon the family altars of the people. At these family altars, too many of which, like the ancient churches, have fallen into decay, the young men of Virginia consecrated themselves to the sacred ministry, or to the defence of the liberties of their country; and there is no question but that in these homes and around these altars the negro servants received the best instruction and richest spiritual blessing which has ever come into the lives of these people now emancipated from slavery, and self-exiled from these high and holy spiritual privileges. We confidently believe that there is more of genuine spiritual good which has come to them as an inheritance from this social and religious tutelage than has since been acquired by them, or imparted to them, along independent lines.
The Influence of the Church upon American Statesmen
The true American patriot can not be unmindful of the debt he owes to the religion of the Christ for the influence exerted by the Church upon the statesmen and warriors of the revolutionary period. While acting as Parish Vestrymen most of these men received their first training in defending the rights and liberties of the people against the undue encroachments of the Church of England. To name the Vestrymen of Virginia distinguished for the service rendered during this period would be to call almost the complete roll of the men who then arose as leaders of the people in the struggle for liberty (see list in Bishop Meade's old Churches and Families in Virginia, Vol. I, p. 153). Washington,
