Article June 3, 1911 Issue

AMONG THE CHURCHES

On April 24, the Rhode Island branch of the Federation of Churches held a convention in the Union Congregational Church of this city, to which First Church of Christ, Scientist, had been invited to send delegates. Nearly every denomination in the state was represented in the convention. The object of the federation is to find a common ground for united effort in seeking to bring to realization the kingdom of God on earth; to from a "clearing-house" for religious activities. It was the sentiment of the convention that a federation of churches was not the union for which Jesus prayed, but simply a step in the right direction; that the basis of united action must not be compromise of belief, but a union of effort along lines of agreement. It follows, therefore, that perfect agreement will only come with that perfect understanding of Truth which is the foundation of unity. It is a joy to see the walls of separation melting away; to see the churches devoting their powers to building up the kingdom of God rather than contending for distinctive creeds and doctrines; for each to look for the good in the other, which is the only real, rather than the evil which is unreal, and thus find that we are all one in our love of good.

As we take our place in conference with the various denominations for the first time in this state, we are reminded of the days not so long ago when some of the largest denominations of today, such as the Methodist and Baptist, were refused fellowship; when a Methodist minister could not find a public hall in Boston where he would be allowed to hold a public service; when Roger Williams fled to the wilderness and providentially found a home among the Indians and there founded a city which he named Providence. We rejoice that the Providence Plantations have recognized that we have part in the kingdom of God and His Christ and have given us fellowship on these lines.

Correspondence.

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