Old South Church Missionary Ordination (1733)

On December 12, 1733, Old South Church in Boston publicly set apart three young ministers—Stephen Parker, Ebenezer Hinsdell, and Joseph Seccombe—for missionary labor among American Indians and frontier settlers. In a solemn service of preaching, prayer, and the laying on of hands, the congregation entrusted them to carry the gospel beyond the settled towns into regions marked by long travel, uncertain shelter, and the ever-present strain of cultural and linguistic difference. The event reflected New England’s conviction that Christ’s church must not be confined to comfortable boundaries, but must press outward in obedience and compassion.

The Men and the Call

Stephen Parker, Ebenezer Hinsdell, and Joseph Seccombe represented a generation trained in Scripture, doctrine, and pastoral care, yet willing to leave established pulpits for scattered communities. Their work required more than courage; it demanded humility to learn unfamiliar speech and customs, patience to teach foundational truths, and steadiness when results came slowly. Their example showed that missionary labor is not mere adventure, but a pastoral calling—bringing the Word, prayer, and Christ-centered instruction to those with limited access to regular preaching.

Boston to the Frontiers

Boston’s Old South Church stood as a prominent center of worship and public life, but this ordination emphasized that the church’s purpose is outward-facing. The “frontier” was not only geographic; it was spiritual—places where fear, isolation, and syncretism could thrive. These ministers went as servants, not conquerors, seeking conversions marked by understanding, repentance, and faith. Their task included strengthening fragile settlements, encouraging family worship, and modeling Christian love in communities tested by hardship.

Biblical Shape and Spiritual Significance

This setting apart echoed the pattern of the early church: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” (Acts 13:2). It also testified to the universal reach of Christ’s promise: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). The hope behind such labor was not human ability, but God’s power to gather worshipers “from every tribe and tongue,” by His Word and Spirit.