Article May 21, 1910 Issue

AMONG THE CHURCHES

The opening of the new edifice of First Church of Christ, Scientist, yesterday [April 3] marks a joyous occasion for the members of the organization in Rockford. While the exterior of the building is not yet completed, the interior is finished and presents a beautiful appearance in its cream and white tints. Six hundred may be seated comfortably. The entire structure is estimated to cost $30,000. E. J. Hollister, one of the pioneers of Christian Science in Rockford, in speaking of the history of the church in Rockford, said:—

"Christian Science services in Rockford were first held in 1897, in the South Rockford home of one of our present members; later were held in the home of another of the early workers in the Cause, one to whose faithful efforts the pioneers feel that they owe much. In 1898 a small down-town meeting-place was secured; then a small hall, which in turn gave place to a larger one. At one time the Masons' Hall on Wyman street was occupied; afterward the Knights of Pythias Hall. We then removed to Mendelssohn Hall, from which we have come to our own home. Our first organization in Rockford was a society, formed in October, 1899. The church was incorporated and organized in 1902, under the name. First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Rockford, Ill. In May, 1903, we started our first church building fund, the first two accumulations of which were gladly sent to meet the need of The Mother Church extension, then building. A meeting was called Sept. 2, 1907, to plan for a church edifice. Within a few weeks this lot had been secured. The corner-stone was laid Feb. 12, 1910. Constant and faithful effort on the part of those entrusted with the carrying out of the plans, trusting God and working, have borne the fruit you see here today."—Rockford Reporter.

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