The Rod in Pickle; or, An Answer to the Appeal of John Church, the Obelisk Preacher
 Containing an Authentic Narrative of the Cause of His Leaving Banbury, in Oxfordshire: Together With the Charges Exhibited Against Him, the Meeting of His Friends in Consequence of Those Charges, and the Result of That Meeting. To Which Are Added, His Letters, Written to the Managers of the Banbury Meeting-House, Begging Them Not to Let the Cause of His Dismissal Be Known in London.

by T. Latham

"The Rod in Pickle; or, An Answer to the Appeal of John Church, the Obelisk Preacher" by Rev. T. Latham is a historical publication written in the early 19th century. This book serves as a critical response to John Church’s claims and addresses the scandal surrounding his departure from Banbury, Oxfordshire. It likely explores themes of morality and accountability, particularly within religious contexts, as it deals with serious allegations against Church, a figure of religious authority. The narrative unfolds as a detailed account of John Church's misconduct while serving as a preacher, which led to his dismissal from the Banbury congregation. Latham presents a collection of letters, testimonies, and the outcomes of congregational meetings that ultimately reveal Church's inappropriate behavior towards boys entrusted to his care. He describes how Church's alleged actions caused public outrage and resulted in his banishment from the community. As Latham examines Church's attempts at self-justification and his pleas for reinstatement, the book critiques the moral implications of Church's behavior, painting a complex picture of a man grappling with the fallout of his indiscretions.