Pastor and Elder At War

New York, 1895

The Presbyterian Church at Newtown May Have a New Head.

For the past few months there has been a row brewing in the Presbyterian church at Newtown. It culminated Thursday night in a severe criticism of Rev. J. E. Mallman, the pastor, by Elder John H. Prall, which is likely to result in the withdrawal of the pastor. The row was caused by the failure of Pastor Mallman to read a letter at the dedication services, sent by Rev. George H. Payson, a former pastor of the church for nine years.

The late John G. Payntar at the time of his death gave $75,000 for the erection of a new stone church. This church was dedicated Sunday with impressive ceremonies. When the will was made, Rev. Mr. Payson was made one of the trustees for the construction of the church, he being at that time pastor. Later when he left the church Rev. Mr. Mallman was put in his place.

While the church was being built Mr. Mallman, it is said, quarreled with the widow of the donor of the money about the plans of construction. This angered the widow and she remained away from the services. Rev. Mr. Payson also remained away.

The fact that these two persons were not present made considerable gossip. A few days ago Elder Prall received a letter from Rev. Mr. Payson. He said that he had not been treated properly in regard to the dedication services and that he had sent a letter to the preacher telling of his interest in the flock and his love for the Christian brethren of Newtown. He added that this was not read and that it put him in a false light.

Elder Prall immediately called a session of the elders, and they requested that Rev. Mr. Mallman read the letter at a fellowship meeting of the Presbytery of Nassau held at the church Thursday night. The dominie replied that he would do nothing of the kind.

The elders waited until the close of the meeting, and ample time was given the preacher to read the letter. Then Elder Prall got up in his seat and asked the pastor to read the epistle. Rev. Mr. Mallman again refused. Then the elder told the whole story and concluded by reading the letter he had received from Rev. Mr. Payson.

There was a silence when the preacher arose in the pulpit to explain why he did not read the letter. He contented himself with saying that the sacredness of the house and the reverence he had for the services prevented him from making a reply.

—The Long Island Farmer, Jamaica, NY, May 17, 1895, p. 8.