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Rev. Jesse Appleton’s Ministry, 1797-1807
Without much delay, Mr. Appleton accepted the call — reserving to himself the privilege of being absent two Sabbaths in each year, assigning as a reason, the distance at which his relatives lived from Hampton, and the many casualties which might render journeying necessary. He also informed the church and society, that, from the shortness of the time which he had devoted to theological studies, it was necessary that he should be able to follow Paul’s advice to Timothy, and give attendance to reading.” This he could not do satisfactorily to himself, if he should be obliged to prepare two sermons every week, and he therefore intimated that he should wish to make frequent exchanges, as he had hitherto done.
Mr. Appleton was ordained on Wednesday, February 22, 1797. The public services were held at the society’s usual place of meeting. The sermon was preached by Rev. Samuel MeClintock, D.D., of Greenland, from Acts II: 22; Rev. Dr. Langdon gave the charge; and Rev. Mr. Thurston, the fellowship of the churches.