In 1788 the first minister for the New Church was ordained. There were two candidates for the position, James Hindmarsh and Samuel Smith. Twelve men from the congregation were chosen to oversee the ordination process. First they voted; the result was unanimous in Hindmarshs favour. However, despite this Hindmarsh was unsatisfied. He demanded that lots be drawn, which also came out 100 percent in his favour. He was ordained by the twelve men putting their hands on him.