The Waterford Pastorate—a Broader Vision

Chapter 6, 1863-1869

The change from Binghamton to Waterford was an important event in Mr. Pierson’s life, for it meant a change from the Congregational to the Presbyterian ranks. But it was a return to his mother church and therein he spent the next thirty-three years of his ministry.

Waterford, whither he was called in August, 1863, was an attractive town on the banks of the Hudson River, a few miles from Troy. He saw in this invitation a greater opportunity for service, for the church was larger, the work was better established, and the general spirit more aggressive. To the salary of $1,000, paid quarterly, was added a parsonage with grounds running down to the river and an abundance of fruit trees. On October 6th he was duly installed, and on this occasion Prof. M.R. Vincent preached a sermon which sounded yet another keynote in the pastor’s ministry. The theme was “Christian Action”—a true soldier’s ideal—and Professor Vincent emphasized the folly of a church allowing their attention to be diverted by disputes and trivial technicalities while a perishing world is waiting for help and salvation. The one great question is, “How can we best save souls?”

Mr. Pierson brought to his work all the enthusiasm of a young man of twenty-six—and a minister’s second charge usually benefits much by his first experience.