Article August 22, 1908 Issue

AMONG THE CHURCHES

with contributions from Rabbi Samuel Sale

The members of First Church of Christ, Scientist, their church property being entirely clear from debt, formally dedicated it Sunday [June 28]. The service rooms in the church, at the corner of Sixth and Perry Streets, were crowded both in the morning and evening, and it was necessary to open the Reading Room to accommodatte the members and the visitors. A short history of the local church was read, and the regular service was carried out both in the morning and evening.

The first knowledge of the healing work done through Christian Science was brought to this city by a lady in 1887. The first to come with authority to teach was a student of Mrs. Eddy. She spent three months here, in 1889, doing all she could to establish the work in that short time; but no one came to stay until 1891, when two gentlemen moved here with the intention of practising Christian Science, and the following year meetings were held in a private house. Then a room in the Masonic Temple was secured and First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Davenport, was organized in May, 1892, with sixteen charter members, about half of them from Rock Island, III. At first services were held Sunday mornings and Friday afternoons, but the afternoon testimony meetings were soon changed to Wednesday evenings. Interest in Christian Science—and attendance at the services—increased steadily, until larger quarters were needed. During the summer of 1895 the Sunday services were changed to Columbian Hall. In the fall the people from Rock Island felt they were strong enough to commence the work in that city, so wednesday evening meetings were begun, although they still continued to attend Sunday services in the Daven port church.

In October, 1896, First Church of Christ, Scientist, Rock Island, III., was formed. This step forward took away about half the membership from the Davenport church. Being the result of progress and strength, giving the promise of two churches where there had been only one, all rejoiced when the organization was completed. Later on the Masonic Temple room was given up, and all meetings were held in Columbian Hall. The congregation continued to grow, until it was necessary to find another place. As there was no larger hall in the city, it was necessary to buy or build, so the present fine location was secured. This change brought greater interest and attendance at the services; more calls for literature at the Reading Room. This has continued until now the church has paid the debt incurred with the purchase of this property, and is rejoicing in greater freedom and prosperity, both spiritual and financial, than ever before. The obstacles overcome have been many. The usual course has been followed here, beginning with the interest and work of one—then a handful of people to hold meetings—resulting in the organization of the church. Much gratitude should be given those who have worked earnestly and faithfully to accomplish this. They are to be congratulated upon the work.—Daily Times.

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