1901
Despite His Reincarnation He Summoned His Host
SUSPECTED A PLOT TO KIDNAP HIM
The Modern Elijah Declared That Physicians Would Spirit Him Away and Beat Him Until He Becomes Insane — Doesn't Like Being Called a Paranoiac
Chicago, June 17 — There is a new agitation in Dowie's Zion. During his meeting at the tabernacle, Dr. Dowie, overseer, claimed that certain physicians of this city had formed a plot to kidnap him, lock him in a detention hospital and beat him on the head and back till he should lose all his reasoning powers and become really insane. He said that the kidnaping might take place after his service and called a special private meeting of the male members of Zion to take steps to help the Zion guard in protecting him. He also made threats against the physicians, saying what he would do them, as he thought they were trying to do him, unless they let him alone and stop calling him a paranoiac. With all this Dowie repeated continually his pretensions to be Elijah reincarnated, making way for the end of the world, and he incidentally laid claim to immortality until his work is accomplished.
"I have special information," shouted the general overseer to his followers, "that a law has just been juggled with special reference to me. Those doctors have fixed it so that an insanity complaint does not have to come from a relative now, but may come from any man who says he acts in public interest. Do you know what this means? It comes from the same men who are calling me a paranoiac. It means they are going to kidnap me. They will try to get me some night. They will carry me to a hospital and bind me hand and foot. Then they will beat me and torture me till they make me insane. That's what they will do, the fiends, the scoundrels! I say to Zion, 'On guard!' I want every member of Zion and every male member especially to remain after this service and plan with me how to protect ourselves from these scoundrels and thieves. The emergency is great."
—Piqua Daily Call, Piqua, OH, June 17, 1901, p. 2.
Showing posts with label Illinois. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Illinois. Show all posts
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
An Afternoon With Dowie
1900
Among the great volume of mail which comes to us on the subject of the Dowie exposure, we have received the following communication, Which was written several months ago by Rev. Wm. Ashmore after he had made a personal visit to the Dowie Institute, and had published his impressions in the Journal-Messenger.
By Rev. William Ashmore
John Alexander Dowie's success in rallying a constituency and expanding himself is almost phenomenal. He has a large meeting house which seats a great crowd of people, and has also a hotel under his control, and is about starting, if he has not already started, a bank, as we are told. We have no Pauline precedents for any of these things, but then Mr. Dowie is said by his followers to be an advance on Paul. The main spoke in Mr. Dowie's wheel is the power of divine healing, which he claims he possesses in a remarkable degree and as a special gift of God. A great many cures are said to have been wrought, and the spaces on the walls of his church building are hung with crutches, and what seem to be bandages and discarded plasters, probably. They remind one of an enterprising corn-extractor at Dayton, O., who had a hundred or more corns and bunions which he had taken off the toes and feet of his customers, and was exhibiting them as an Indian brave does his scalps. It is this power of working cures which gives Mr. Dowie what influence he has with common people.
There is a deal of illusion here. That whole subject is by no means so fully ventilated as it ought to be, nor are discriminations made as they ought to be, and so people are blinded and misled. Dowie gives out that all other ministers deny the existence of special healing in answer to the prayer of faith, and that he alone advocates it, and furnishes instances of success. Many people believe his statements, and, knowing that there are well attested cases of healing that have come within the range of their own in formation, they are ready to conclude that Dowie is right and the ministers arc wrong.
But now that is not true. We all believe that God does answer the fervent prayer of his people for healing. We doubt if a minister can be found in the land who does not so believe, and who does not offer special prayer for that very purpose. There are few ministers who can not, in their own experience, point to some cases of remarkable answers to prayer of this very kind. Certainly every old minister can furnish illustrations, more or less. We offer prayers for the sick in our pulpits. We are sent for, and go and pray at their bedsides, and we have seen many cures recorded quite as remarkable as are any of the cases of Dowie, or Sweinfurth, or any other specialists of the kind. As for discarded canes and crutches and plasters and bandages, that have been thrown aside after the prayers of ordinary ministers, in the past century alone, and before Dowie ever was heard of, if they were all brought together and hung up and tacked on to the walls of Dowie's church, they would cover them so thick that there would not be a place left big enough to hold a corn plaster. Dowie's collection of trophies would dwindle into nothingness in comparison. But he makes a great parade of his, while other ministers do not, and so people think that nobody's prayers for the sick avail but Dowie's. The writer of this article holds that he himself was once brought back from the very grave's mouth, in special answer to special prayer, by brethren called in for that purpose, and quite as remarkably as any he has read of in Dowie's list; and all this in the ordinary ministry of the Word. If one wants to have more experience in divine healing, he would do well to seek out good earnest believers in prayer in his own church, and get them to pray for him, and not have to encounter the flippancy and vulgarity which we saw in John Alexander Dowie, and of which we shall speak hereafter.
What specially characterizes Mr. Dowie is his claiming to have a pre-eminence over all of God's praying ones, and his making of "divine healing," or miraculous healing a hobby to which all other things are made subsidiary; and we are obliged to conclude, a profitable, money-making hobby as well. However, it may be done, certain it is that there is nothing of a religious kind in Chicago which is made to pay so handsomely, in one way and another, as Dowie's "divine healing."
Mr. Dowie's love of "pre-eminence" is obvious to the most superficial observer. He is the "General Overseer" of the newly formed "Christian Catholic Church." He is the head, and will remain so. His picture appears constantly in his paper. His readers are not allowed to forget how he apears. On the day we were there he was, as usual, bidding defiance to his opponents, of whom there is an unlimited number, especially in the churches of God. Contending for his authority, he reached a climax. when he said, in a loud, defiant voice, they knew he had been specially "anointed by the Holy Ghost" for the work he was then doing; and, in almost a roar, he added: "I am God's prophet! I know I am!" This was said with none of the meekness or gentleness of Christ, and with none of the modest, even though firm, assertiveness of Peter and John and Paul, while defining themselves before their opponents; but with the swagger of a ring boxer. If his manner meant anything, it meant — as he shouted, "I am God's prophet!" and swung himself around with arm and fist like a scythe cutting a swath — "If any man disputes it, let him look out!" That fist might not have been so very dangerous, but the way it was flourished was suggestive of a bunged eye, or a bloody nose, or perhaps both. The whole procedure reminded me of Mahomet when he said: "God is God, and Mahomet is his prophet!"
Dowie is an Ishmaelite. He is against churches and ministers, one and all, savagely and without distinction. Anybody who opposes his claims comes in for vituperation. He would have it understood that he is "the great power of God," not only for Chicago, but for the nation at large, and, indeed, for the whole world! He is generating a class of harsh, unChrist-like, censorious followers, who, when they hear some one criticizing the extravagances of their leader's talk, at once begin to say — following an example set by himself — "The devil is at work." So he may be —but in whom, is another question.
—The Ram's Horn, March 17, 1900, p. 5.
Among the great volume of mail which comes to us on the subject of the Dowie exposure, we have received the following communication, Which was written several months ago by Rev. Wm. Ashmore after he had made a personal visit to the Dowie Institute, and had published his impressions in the Journal-Messenger.
By Rev. William Ashmore
John Alexander Dowie's success in rallying a constituency and expanding himself is almost phenomenal. He has a large meeting house which seats a great crowd of people, and has also a hotel under his control, and is about starting, if he has not already started, a bank, as we are told. We have no Pauline precedents for any of these things, but then Mr. Dowie is said by his followers to be an advance on Paul. The main spoke in Mr. Dowie's wheel is the power of divine healing, which he claims he possesses in a remarkable degree and as a special gift of God. A great many cures are said to have been wrought, and the spaces on the walls of his church building are hung with crutches, and what seem to be bandages and discarded plasters, probably. They remind one of an enterprising corn-extractor at Dayton, O., who had a hundred or more corns and bunions which he had taken off the toes and feet of his customers, and was exhibiting them as an Indian brave does his scalps. It is this power of working cures which gives Mr. Dowie what influence he has with common people.
There is a deal of illusion here. That whole subject is by no means so fully ventilated as it ought to be, nor are discriminations made as they ought to be, and so people are blinded and misled. Dowie gives out that all other ministers deny the existence of special healing in answer to the prayer of faith, and that he alone advocates it, and furnishes instances of success. Many people believe his statements, and, knowing that there are well attested cases of healing that have come within the range of their own in formation, they are ready to conclude that Dowie is right and the ministers arc wrong.
But now that is not true. We all believe that God does answer the fervent prayer of his people for healing. We doubt if a minister can be found in the land who does not so believe, and who does not offer special prayer for that very purpose. There are few ministers who can not, in their own experience, point to some cases of remarkable answers to prayer of this very kind. Certainly every old minister can furnish illustrations, more or less. We offer prayers for the sick in our pulpits. We are sent for, and go and pray at their bedsides, and we have seen many cures recorded quite as remarkable as are any of the cases of Dowie, or Sweinfurth, or any other specialists of the kind. As for discarded canes and crutches and plasters and bandages, that have been thrown aside after the prayers of ordinary ministers, in the past century alone, and before Dowie ever was heard of, if they were all brought together and hung up and tacked on to the walls of Dowie's church, they would cover them so thick that there would not be a place left big enough to hold a corn plaster. Dowie's collection of trophies would dwindle into nothingness in comparison. But he makes a great parade of his, while other ministers do not, and so people think that nobody's prayers for the sick avail but Dowie's. The writer of this article holds that he himself was once brought back from the very grave's mouth, in special answer to special prayer, by brethren called in for that purpose, and quite as remarkably as any he has read of in Dowie's list; and all this in the ordinary ministry of the Word. If one wants to have more experience in divine healing, he would do well to seek out good earnest believers in prayer in his own church, and get them to pray for him, and not have to encounter the flippancy and vulgarity which we saw in John Alexander Dowie, and of which we shall speak hereafter.
What specially characterizes Mr. Dowie is his claiming to have a pre-eminence over all of God's praying ones, and his making of "divine healing," or miraculous healing a hobby to which all other things are made subsidiary; and we are obliged to conclude, a profitable, money-making hobby as well. However, it may be done, certain it is that there is nothing of a religious kind in Chicago which is made to pay so handsomely, in one way and another, as Dowie's "divine healing."
Mr. Dowie's love of "pre-eminence" is obvious to the most superficial observer. He is the "General Overseer" of the newly formed "Christian Catholic Church." He is the head, and will remain so. His picture appears constantly in his paper. His readers are not allowed to forget how he apears. On the day we were there he was, as usual, bidding defiance to his opponents, of whom there is an unlimited number, especially in the churches of God. Contending for his authority, he reached a climax. when he said, in a loud, defiant voice, they knew he had been specially "anointed by the Holy Ghost" for the work he was then doing; and, in almost a roar, he added: "I am God's prophet! I know I am!" This was said with none of the meekness or gentleness of Christ, and with none of the modest, even though firm, assertiveness of Peter and John and Paul, while defining themselves before their opponents; but with the swagger of a ring boxer. If his manner meant anything, it meant — as he shouted, "I am God's prophet!" and swung himself around with arm and fist like a scythe cutting a swath — "If any man disputes it, let him look out!" That fist might not have been so very dangerous, but the way it was flourished was suggestive of a bunged eye, or a bloody nose, or perhaps both. The whole procedure reminded me of Mahomet when he said: "God is God, and Mahomet is his prophet!"
Dowie is an Ishmaelite. He is against churches and ministers, one and all, savagely and without distinction. Anybody who opposes his claims comes in for vituperation. He would have it understood that he is "the great power of God," not only for Chicago, but for the nation at large, and, indeed, for the whole world! He is generating a class of harsh, unChrist-like, censorious followers, who, when they hear some one criticizing the extravagances of their leader's talk, at once begin to say — following an example set by himself — "The devil is at work." So he may be —but in whom, is another question.
—The Ram's Horn, March 17, 1900, p. 5.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Keeps Women Silent, How Does He Do It?
1920
Pastor Finds Long-sought-for Method of Hushing Talkative Sex.
Women are not allowed to preach or to bear rule or authority in the church at Zion City, Ill., near Chicago.
"I will not allow any woman to come on the platform and preach or teach," said Overseer Voliva. "Paul said, 'Let the women keep silent in the churches,' and in Zion no woman can be a public speaker. No woman is entitled to bear rule or to be placed in authority. When the apostles were selected, there wasn't a woman among them. When God chose a prophet, or a messenger, he always chose a man."
Here are some of the things that a woman can do, according to Voliva:
She can stay at home and mend socks; wash the dishes; knit and darn; cook; keep her home and her children clean and tidy, and she can be an angel of mercy to the sick and distressed. But she can't preach.
Besides accepting the apostle Paul as an authority on woman's place. Voliva also takes the position that woman was to be subject to man, from creation down. Voliva gives as his reasons for this position that Adam was first created, then woman was created from the rib of man, and that Eve was first in the transgressions in the Garden of Eden. She didn't keep her place, and not only got into trouble, but dragged man into trouble after her.
—The Saturday Blade, Chicago, Jan. 3, 1920, p. 5.
Pastor Finds Long-sought-for Method of Hushing Talkative Sex.
Women are not allowed to preach or to bear rule or authority in the church at Zion City, Ill., near Chicago.
"I will not allow any woman to come on the platform and preach or teach," said Overseer Voliva. "Paul said, 'Let the women keep silent in the churches,' and in Zion no woman can be a public speaker. No woman is entitled to bear rule or to be placed in authority. When the apostles were selected, there wasn't a woman among them. When God chose a prophet, or a messenger, he always chose a man."
Here are some of the things that a woman can do, according to Voliva:
She can stay at home and mend socks; wash the dishes; knit and darn; cook; keep her home and her children clean and tidy, and she can be an angel of mercy to the sick and distressed. But she can't preach.
Besides accepting the apostle Paul as an authority on woman's place. Voliva also takes the position that woman was to be subject to man, from creation down. Voliva gives as his reasons for this position that Adam was first created, then woman was created from the rib of man, and that Eve was first in the transgressions in the Garden of Eden. She didn't keep her place, and not only got into trouble, but dragged man into trouble after her.
—The Saturday Blade, Chicago, Jan. 3, 1920, p. 5.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Free Lunch Goes With Religion
Illinois, 1905
Inducements to Be Offered Bloomington Men to Attend Church
Bloomington, Illinois, March 7 — To draw the men to the prayer meeting has been a problem before the congregation of the First Methodist church of this city for a long time. This week a new attraction will be introduced. A free lunch will be served between the hours of 6:30 and 7:15 o'clock for all business men and mechanics. It is believed that the merchants, clerks, and men in the shops will go from their work at 6 o'clock to the church and after eating remain to the 7:30 o'clock prayer meeting.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, Illinois, March 7, 1905.
Mormons Can Elder Cannon
His Conduct Is Declared to Have Been Unchristian
Salt Lake City, March 7 — Former United States Senator Frank J. Cannon has been disfellowshiped from the Mormon church for "unchristianlike conduct and apostasy."
This action of the church authorities followed a hearing in the city of Ogden before the local bishopric with whom charges had been preferred against Elder Cannon who is editor of the Salt Lake Tribune. The charges were based on editorial utterances of the Tribune including "an address to the earthly king of the kingdom of God." Mr. Cannon admitted the authorship.
Inducements to Be Offered Bloomington Men to Attend Church
Bloomington, Illinois, March 7 — To draw the men to the prayer meeting has been a problem before the congregation of the First Methodist church of this city for a long time. This week a new attraction will be introduced. A free lunch will be served between the hours of 6:30 and 7:15 o'clock for all business men and mechanics. It is believed that the merchants, clerks, and men in the shops will go from their work at 6 o'clock to the church and after eating remain to the 7:30 o'clock prayer meeting.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, Illinois, March 7, 1905.
Mormons Can Elder Cannon
His Conduct Is Declared to Have Been Unchristian
Salt Lake City, March 7 — Former United States Senator Frank J. Cannon has been disfellowshiped from the Mormon church for "unchristianlike conduct and apostasy."
This action of the church authorities followed a hearing in the city of Ogden before the local bishopric with whom charges had been preferred against Elder Cannon who is editor of the Salt Lake Tribune. The charges were based on editorial utterances of the Tribune including "an address to the earthly king of the kingdom of God." Mr. Cannon admitted the authorship.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Among Sermons: "Hell and Where It Is"
Chicago area, Jan. 1908
At Sangamon St. M. E. church, 64th and Sangamon Sts., a revival is being held during January. Services are held every evening, bright singing, interesting subjects, The subject of the pastor's sermon next Sunday will be "Hell and Where It Is."
Rev. James W. Frid, the popular pastor of Thoburn M. E. church, is delivering a series of very interesting sermons during January on Sunday evenings. Two have been delivered. The one for next Sunday will be "Sky Pilot" or "Christ among the cowboys of the west."
Rev. R. A. White will preach next Sunday morning at the People's Liberal church on "The Ideal and Practical in Education" and in the evening will deliver his last illustrated lecture on "Athens."
The pastor of the Seventh Presbyterian church will preach next Sunday morning on "Samuel, the Jurist and Prophet" and in the evening on the question "Is there divinity in man?"
The revival meetings at the First Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene, 6417 Eggleston avenue, under the leadership of that remarkable preacher the Rev. "Bud" Robinson, are eminently successful. At the close of the first four days sixty-six persons had been at the altar of prayer seeking salvation. Sunday was a wonderful day despite the inclement weather. These meetings continue until January 26. Thursday of each week is devoted to prayer and fasting from 10:30 a. m. throughout the day. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday a Bible reading at 2:30. The citizens of Englewood should hear this great preacher unlike any other in the world.
Revival services are in progress at the Garfield Boulevard M. E. church, 55th and Emerald Ave. Over thirty persons have been at the altar thus far to accept Christ and lead better lives. Revival sermon next Sunday, 10:30 a. m., subject "A Mighty Force Among the Forces of God." 7:30 p. m., topic "The Need of Rome the Need of Chicago." Sunday school night this Friday evening. A large attendance expected.
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Jan. 17, 1908.
At Sangamon St. M. E. church, 64th and Sangamon Sts., a revival is being held during January. Services are held every evening, bright singing, interesting subjects, The subject of the pastor's sermon next Sunday will be "Hell and Where It Is."
Rev. James W. Frid, the popular pastor of Thoburn M. E. church, is delivering a series of very interesting sermons during January on Sunday evenings. Two have been delivered. The one for next Sunday will be "Sky Pilot" or "Christ among the cowboys of the west."
Rev. R. A. White will preach next Sunday morning at the People's Liberal church on "The Ideal and Practical in Education" and in the evening will deliver his last illustrated lecture on "Athens."
The pastor of the Seventh Presbyterian church will preach next Sunday morning on "Samuel, the Jurist and Prophet" and in the evening on the question "Is there divinity in man?"
The revival meetings at the First Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene, 6417 Eggleston avenue, under the leadership of that remarkable preacher the Rev. "Bud" Robinson, are eminently successful. At the close of the first four days sixty-six persons had been at the altar of prayer seeking salvation. Sunday was a wonderful day despite the inclement weather. These meetings continue until January 26. Thursday of each week is devoted to prayer and fasting from 10:30 a. m. throughout the day. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday a Bible reading at 2:30. The citizens of Englewood should hear this great preacher unlike any other in the world.
Revival services are in progress at the Garfield Boulevard M. E. church, 55th and Emerald Ave. Over thirty persons have been at the altar thus far to accept Christ and lead better lives. Revival sermon next Sunday, 10:30 a. m., subject "A Mighty Force Among the Forces of God." 7:30 p. m., topic "The Need of Rome the Need of Chicago." Sunday school night this Friday evening. A large attendance expected.
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Jan. 17, 1908.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
The Church in Everyday Clothes
Illinois, 1910
Topics in Church
Loomis Street Methodist Episcopal — Frank C. Bruneer, pastor. Morning sermon, "The Church in Its Every-Day Clothes." Evening service, 7:45 sharp, subject, "A Great White Prayer."
Fourth Church of Christ, Scientist — Subject for next Sunday, "Everlasting Punishment."
Englewood Baptist Church — Dr. Ford will preach morning and evening. In the morning he will discuss a malicious slander that is doing a lot of harm. In the evening he will talk about "Frivolousness, the Modern Sin." Miss Brown will sing for the last time before taking up her work in New York.
Garfield Blvd. M.E. — E. E. McKay, pastor. Morning topic, "The Absolute Need of the Holy Spirit for Salvation and Service." Evening topic, "The Consecration of Old Tools to New Uses."
People's Liberal Church — Dr. R. A. White will preach on "Theodore Parker, the Man." Lecture in the evening to be "Berlin, the Beautiful."
New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) — Rev. E. J. E. Schreck, pastor. Morning, "The Treasure in the Field." Evening, "Spiritism."
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Oct. 28, 1910.
Topics in Church
Loomis Street Methodist Episcopal — Frank C. Bruneer, pastor. Morning sermon, "The Church in Its Every-Day Clothes." Evening service, 7:45 sharp, subject, "A Great White Prayer."
Fourth Church of Christ, Scientist — Subject for next Sunday, "Everlasting Punishment."
Englewood Baptist Church — Dr. Ford will preach morning and evening. In the morning he will discuss a malicious slander that is doing a lot of harm. In the evening he will talk about "Frivolousness, the Modern Sin." Miss Brown will sing for the last time before taking up her work in New York.
Garfield Blvd. M.E. — E. E. McKay, pastor. Morning topic, "The Absolute Need of the Holy Spirit for Salvation and Service." Evening topic, "The Consecration of Old Tools to New Uses."
People's Liberal Church — Dr. R. A. White will preach on "Theodore Parker, the Man." Lecture in the evening to be "Berlin, the Beautiful."
New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) — Rev. E. J. E. Schreck, pastor. Morning, "The Treasure in the Field." Evening, "Spiritism."
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Oct. 28, 1910.
"The Walking Bible" Visits Nazarene Church
Illinois, 1910
Church of the Nazarene
Revival extraordinary at the First Church of the Nazarene. In connection with the general revival movement that is now sweeping the city, the First Church of the Nazarene, 6417 Eggleston avenue, Rev. C. E. Cornell, pastor, began a special series of evangelistic services Wednesday.
Rev. Bud Robinson of Texas, one of the most unique and successful evangelists in America, will preach each night except Saturday. This is Mr. Robinson's third visit to this church. On each of the former visits the church was packed to the doors and hundreds were seeking the Lord. Bud is called "The Walking Bible." He can now quote accurately seven or eight thousand passages of scripture. He is a man of deep spirituality, keen, logical, witty and knows how to bring things to pass.
The church has been praying for weeks that this revival will exceed anything in its history. There will be Bible readings Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons at 2:30. Thursday of each week will be devoted to fasting and prayer from 10:30 a.m. to four p.m. The public are cordially invited to hear this remarkable man.
Ashland Christian Revival
Evangelistic meetings will commence at the Ashland Christian church in the Masonic hall at 6319 Ashland avenue, and continue indefinitely. The distinguished evangelists, W. P. Brooks, Papps and Lewis, will be the speakers and no better team is known than they. Eloquent, earnest and elevating and they will doubtless draw big crowds at every service. Everyone is invited.
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Oct. 28, 1910.
Church of the Nazarene
Revival extraordinary at the First Church of the Nazarene. In connection with the general revival movement that is now sweeping the city, the First Church of the Nazarene, 6417 Eggleston avenue, Rev. C. E. Cornell, pastor, began a special series of evangelistic services Wednesday.
Rev. Bud Robinson of Texas, one of the most unique and successful evangelists in America, will preach each night except Saturday. This is Mr. Robinson's third visit to this church. On each of the former visits the church was packed to the doors and hundreds were seeking the Lord. Bud is called "The Walking Bible." He can now quote accurately seven or eight thousand passages of scripture. He is a man of deep spirituality, keen, logical, witty and knows how to bring things to pass.
The church has been praying for weeks that this revival will exceed anything in its history. There will be Bible readings Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons at 2:30. Thursday of each week will be devoted to fasting and prayer from 10:30 a.m. to four p.m. The public are cordially invited to hear this remarkable man.
Ashland Christian Revival
Evangelistic meetings will commence at the Ashland Christian church in the Masonic hall at 6319 Ashland avenue, and continue indefinitely. The distinguished evangelists, W. P. Brooks, Papps and Lewis, will be the speakers and no better team is known than they. Eloquent, earnest and elevating and they will doubtless draw big crowds at every service. Everyone is invited.
—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, Oct. 28, 1910.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Ministers Protest Against Street Fair
May 1906
Alton, Illinois — The Alton ministerial alliance yesterday protested to the city council against the holding of a street fair in the city, and denounced such exhibitions as immoral in their tendency and opposed to the legitimate interests of the city according to the effects of former street fairs held in Alton.
The Roman Catholic clergy have united in condemning the proposed fair and it is probable that none will be held. The clergymen also decided to begin a campaign in the interests of improving public morals in Alton, and will hold several mass meetings during the summer.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 15, 1906, p. 9.
Alton, Illinois — The Alton ministerial alliance yesterday protested to the city council against the holding of a street fair in the city, and denounced such exhibitions as immoral in their tendency and opposed to the legitimate interests of the city according to the effects of former street fairs held in Alton.
The Roman Catholic clergy have united in condemning the proposed fair and it is probable that none will be held. The clergymen also decided to begin a campaign in the interests of improving public morals in Alton, and will hold several mass meetings during the summer.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 15, 1906, p. 9.
Dowie Swears If He Had His Rights
Illinois, 1906
Then He Would Not Be a Bankrupt as His Enemies Allege
Chicago, May 16. — Attorneys for Dowie today filed an answer in the federal court in the receivership proceedings brought against Dowie some time ago. In his answer Dowie denied that he is insolvent, if all his property was restored to him.
Judge Landis, before whom the arguments were made, entered an order directing the attorneys to leave the matter alone, saying he would settle it himself.
Riots broke out again in Zion City yesterday, following disorder which attended Dowie's effort to address his followers in Shiloh Tabernacle Sunday. Crowds numbering hundreds gathered on Shiloh boulevard, near the general store in the afternoon, and engaged in a furious argument over the respective merits of their leaders, and the questions at issue in the struggle of "Doctor" Dowie and Overseer Veliva for supremacy.
One Dowieite was handled roughly by the mob and serious consequences were only averted by the arrival of the Zion police in answer to a riot call.
James Slater, a negro adherent of the "First Apostle," was escorted to safety by the officers, after being mobbed for his sturdy defense of Dowie. The crowd assembled again after the departure of the police, and another riot call was sent in, which brought out all the reserves of the station, led by Police Captain Walker himself. The mob was forced off the street corners and ordered to disperse.
FEAR FURTHER TROUBLE
The police are apprehensive of further trouble and have called in all their patrolmen from outlying points for possible emergency duty. Slater is said to have started the trouble by exploiting the virtues of Dowie to a crowd near the general store. He was interrupted by loud cries of:
"Dowie has all of my money."
"Dowie is a robber."
"Why doesn't he pay his debts?"
The negro became frightened and ran. He was overtaken by the mob and in turn rescued by the police,
DOWIE CHARGES CONTEMPT
Dowie took personal charge of seeking punishment of persons who caused disorder at his meeting Sunday. He instructed his attorney, Emil C. Witten, to draw Judge Wright's attention to the fact that the terms of the court order issued at the first hearing of the injunction proceedings against Veliva, to the effect that the "First Apostle's" meetings should not he interfered with had been grossly violated. He also ordered his counsellors to announce that all negotiations for the appointment of a triumvirate were off, and that the court proceedings should proceed.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 15, 1906, p. 1.
Then He Would Not Be a Bankrupt as His Enemies Allege
Chicago, May 16. — Attorneys for Dowie today filed an answer in the federal court in the receivership proceedings brought against Dowie some time ago. In his answer Dowie denied that he is insolvent, if all his property was restored to him.
Judge Landis, before whom the arguments were made, entered an order directing the attorneys to leave the matter alone, saying he would settle it himself.
Riots broke out again in Zion City yesterday, following disorder which attended Dowie's effort to address his followers in Shiloh Tabernacle Sunday. Crowds numbering hundreds gathered on Shiloh boulevard, near the general store in the afternoon, and engaged in a furious argument over the respective merits of their leaders, and the questions at issue in the struggle of "Doctor" Dowie and Overseer Veliva for supremacy.
One Dowieite was handled roughly by the mob and serious consequences were only averted by the arrival of the Zion police in answer to a riot call.
James Slater, a negro adherent of the "First Apostle," was escorted to safety by the officers, after being mobbed for his sturdy defense of Dowie. The crowd assembled again after the departure of the police, and another riot call was sent in, which brought out all the reserves of the station, led by Police Captain Walker himself. The mob was forced off the street corners and ordered to disperse.
FEAR FURTHER TROUBLE
The police are apprehensive of further trouble and have called in all their patrolmen from outlying points for possible emergency duty. Slater is said to have started the trouble by exploiting the virtues of Dowie to a crowd near the general store. He was interrupted by loud cries of:
"Dowie has all of my money."
"Dowie is a robber."
"Why doesn't he pay his debts?"
The negro became frightened and ran. He was overtaken by the mob and in turn rescued by the police,
DOWIE CHARGES CONTEMPT
Dowie took personal charge of seeking punishment of persons who caused disorder at his meeting Sunday. He instructed his attorney, Emil C. Witten, to draw Judge Wright's attention to the fact that the terms of the court order issued at the first hearing of the injunction proceedings against Veliva, to the effect that the "First Apostle's" meetings should not he interfered with had been grossly violated. He also ordered his counsellors to announce that all negotiations for the appointment of a triumvirate were off, and that the court proceedings should proceed.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 15, 1906, p. 1.
The Deadbeat Prophet
Illinois, 1906
Yes, why does not John Alexander Dowie, "First Apostle," pay his debts? That question was bandied forth and back in Zion Sunday and it broke up a meeting arranged by Dowie. Police were called in, but they could do little more than keep the faithful and deluded from strangling each other.
It is a pity that it could not have been answered for Dowie that his debts have been paid. It appears that in these days it is necessary for a man to pay his bills if he lays any claim to being an apostle. The one who will not pay may overlay himself with a coating of seeming sanctity and saintliness and apostleship, but his competitors for the favor of the faithful are likely to get him in a corner at any time and call him a deadbeat The opponents of a professedly pious man are inclined at times to get raggedly familiar with him if he does not and will not pay his bills.
The lesson to be learned from all this is that if you expect to play the role of apostle with success here on earth it has become necessary for you to keep the finances straight. Certainly the time will come when a prophet who does not pay his bills will find himself without honor at home.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 14, 1906, p. 4.
Yes, why does not John Alexander Dowie, "First Apostle," pay his debts? That question was bandied forth and back in Zion Sunday and it broke up a meeting arranged by Dowie. Police were called in, but they could do little more than keep the faithful and deluded from strangling each other.
It is a pity that it could not have been answered for Dowie that his debts have been paid. It appears that in these days it is necessary for a man to pay his bills if he lays any claim to being an apostle. The one who will not pay may overlay himself with a coating of seeming sanctity and saintliness and apostleship, but his competitors for the favor of the faithful are likely to get him in a corner at any time and call him a deadbeat The opponents of a professedly pious man are inclined at times to get raggedly familiar with him if he does not and will not pay his bills.
The lesson to be learned from all this is that if you expect to play the role of apostle with success here on earth it has become necessary for you to keep the finances straight. Certainly the time will come when a prophet who does not pay his bills will find himself without honor at home.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, May 14, 1906, p. 4.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Runaway Pastor is Found
1914
Writes Home at Cawden, Ill., He Left Wife and Parishioners to Escape Debts
Decatur, Ill., Feb. 20. — Rev. O. M. Eaton, pastor of the Christian church at Cawden, Ill., who has been missing since Feb. 10, has been located at Lebanon, Mo. A letter from him to B. E. Prater, cashier of the Cawden National bank, recites he left home because of debts.
The pastor told his wife he was going to Flora, Ill., on business. When he did not return next day a search was instituted.
Eaton wrote that he was employed and would send money to his aged parents soon. His wife and two daughters are at the home of her parents.
Writes Home at Cawden, Ill., He Left Wife and Parishioners to Escape Debts
Decatur, Ill., Feb. 20. — Rev. O. M. Eaton, pastor of the Christian church at Cawden, Ill., who has been missing since Feb. 10, has been located at Lebanon, Mo. A letter from him to B. E. Prater, cashier of the Cawden National bank, recites he left home because of debts.
The pastor told his wife he was going to Flora, Ill., on business. When he did not return next day a search was instituted.
Eaton wrote that he was employed and would send money to his aged parents soon. His wife and two daughters are at the home of her parents.
Pastor Resigns with Nervous Condition
Illinois, 1914
At the meeting of the members of the College avenue Baptist church, called at the close of the morning service, the resignation of Rev. G. S. Beckwith of Alton, was read. The resignation reads as follows:
"To the Upper Alton Baptist church: Friends — The message which I send you this morning fills we with grief for it separates me from a delightful people, and closes to me a great opportunity. When I accepted your call last November, I did so against the advice and in the face of the emphatic warning of my physician, who insisted that my nervous condition was impaired by overwork and demanded a complete rest. But the situation here made an irresistible appeal to me, by its wonderful possibilities and its rare opportunity for service, and I disregarded the expert's judgment and promised to undertake the pastorate of your church. After reaching Alton, the collapse came, and I find myself physically unable to undertake the work. In justice to you who have reposed such confidence in me, and to clear the way for you to call another pastor able to serve you as you so richly deserve to be served, I hereby tender you my resignation to take effect immediately.
"The church and the community have made a tremendous appeal to me and does so still, and I had hoped to make this pastorate the pastorate of my life, but that is now impossible.
"Trusting that God may guide you in the selection of one who will lead you wisely to His glory, I remain
Yours sincerely,
G. S. BECKWITH."
Action on the resignation was deferred until a decisive opinion shall be received from the expert whose advice Dr. Beckwith will seek immediately upon his arrival at Schnectady.
—Edwardsville Intelligencer, Edwardsville, IL, Feb. 13, 1914.
At the meeting of the members of the College avenue Baptist church, called at the close of the morning service, the resignation of Rev. G. S. Beckwith of Alton, was read. The resignation reads as follows:
"To the Upper Alton Baptist church: Friends — The message which I send you this morning fills we with grief for it separates me from a delightful people, and closes to me a great opportunity. When I accepted your call last November, I did so against the advice and in the face of the emphatic warning of my physician, who insisted that my nervous condition was impaired by overwork and demanded a complete rest. But the situation here made an irresistible appeal to me, by its wonderful possibilities and its rare opportunity for service, and I disregarded the expert's judgment and promised to undertake the pastorate of your church. After reaching Alton, the collapse came, and I find myself physically unable to undertake the work. In justice to you who have reposed such confidence in me, and to clear the way for you to call another pastor able to serve you as you so richly deserve to be served, I hereby tender you my resignation to take effect immediately.
"The church and the community have made a tremendous appeal to me and does so still, and I had hoped to make this pastorate the pastorate of my life, but that is now impossible.
"Trusting that God may guide you in the selection of one who will lead you wisely to His glory, I remain
Yours sincerely,
G. S. BECKWITH."
Action on the resignation was deferred until a decisive opinion shall be received from the expert whose advice Dr. Beckwith will seek immediately upon his arrival at Schnectady.
—Edwardsville Intelligencer, Edwardsville, IL, Feb. 13, 1914.
Men Try to Beat Devil Out of Boy
1914
Holy Roller Preacher and Two Illinoisans Accused of Assault
Lad Sustains Broken Arm
Cousin, With Club, Ends Attack After He Is Seriously Injured — Fanatics in Jail Try to Pray the Prison Doors Open
Murphysboro, Ill., Feb. 10. — Noah Hickman lies at the point of death at his home in the foothills of the Ozarks, in Jackson county, as the result of flogging and trampling he suffered when he refused to accept the Holy Roller faith. Dolph Hickman, young Hickman's father, Walter Ellis and Adam Cripps were arrested on the charge of assault. Cripps was released on $500 bond.
Friday night the Holy Rollers held an all-night meeting at the Hickman home. Young Hickman, who is an epileptic, was told that he was possessed of evil spirits, and the Holy Rollers said they would trample the demons out of him.
Cousin Halts Attack
Hickman's father, one of his sisters, Ellis and Cripps bore their victim to the floor after flogging him and trampled on him. He sustained a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and several internal injuries. The arrival of Tom Hickman, the boy's cousin, with a club ended the attack.
The Holy Rollers have held all-night prayer services at Macedonia, Dutch Ridge, Poplar Ridge and other remote centers in the hills. Some of them have killed off swine and let them die in the woods as things unfit to touch. The district is aroused and will try to stamp out the faith.
The Holy Rollers in the Jonesboro jail are attempting to pray the prison doors open.
Holy Roller Preacher and Two Illinoisans Accused of Assault
Lad Sustains Broken Arm
Cousin, With Club, Ends Attack After He Is Seriously Injured — Fanatics in Jail Try to Pray the Prison Doors Open
Murphysboro, Ill., Feb. 10. — Noah Hickman lies at the point of death at his home in the foothills of the Ozarks, in Jackson county, as the result of flogging and trampling he suffered when he refused to accept the Holy Roller faith. Dolph Hickman, young Hickman's father, Walter Ellis and Adam Cripps were arrested on the charge of assault. Cripps was released on $500 bond.
Friday night the Holy Rollers held an all-night meeting at the Hickman home. Young Hickman, who is an epileptic, was told that he was possessed of evil spirits, and the Holy Rollers said they would trample the demons out of him.
Cousin Halts Attack
Hickman's father, one of his sisters, Ellis and Cripps bore their victim to the floor after flogging him and trampled on him. He sustained a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and several internal injuries. The arrival of Tom Hickman, the boy's cousin, with a club ended the attack.
The Holy Rollers have held all-night prayer services at Macedonia, Dutch Ridge, Poplar Ridge and other remote centers in the hills. Some of them have killed off swine and let them die in the woods as things unfit to touch. The district is aroused and will try to stamp out the faith.
The Holy Rollers in the Jonesboro jail are attempting to pray the prison doors open.
Minister Took Look at Gambling Rooms
Illinois, 1914
Alton Parson Strolled to the Gambling Rooms
Now They Are Wondering Just What The Answer Will Be
Alton residents are wondering what a minister from that city will do with his recently acquired knowledge. He spent an evening this week in one of the so-called resorts of the city. Many think he may appear before the grand jury. The Alton Times tells of the visitation as follows:
"One of the Alton ministers spent last evening — or a part of it in a gambling house on West Second street. He is a young man and an innocent looking chap. He put a pipe in his mouth, wore a pair of boots in which his trousers were tucked at the top of the boots, had on an old rain coat, pulled his hat so that it gave his a rakish air.
He did not consider himself disguised but he made himself look like a young man who makes money and lets go of it easily. So he went down to the building on West Second street, walked up to the rooms above Ballard and John's restaurant and walked right in. There was a good sized crowd of players and the silver dollars were strewn about in an abundance that surprised a man who had heard that there is a money stringency in Alton. He took no part in the play but he saw the others rolling dice. He states that at one time there was at least five hundred dollars on the table. In the same room some players were playing poker. He says they were playing cards and he believes the game was not 'flinch or five hundred.'
"The roulette table was in the same room with the crap table, but 'craps' was the most popular game. The roulette game was not running.
"The minister looked on until he had seen enough and then walked out. He will deliver an address at the Baptist church next Sunday and tell all about what he saw.
"The silver dollars were in stacks of twenty each and he counted the stacks until he had reached a total of $600 and then quit though he did not inventory the smaller coins."
—Edwardsville Intelligencer, Edwardsville, IL, Feb. 10, 1914, p. 1
Alton Parson Strolled to the Gambling Rooms
Now They Are Wondering Just What The Answer Will Be
Alton residents are wondering what a minister from that city will do with his recently acquired knowledge. He spent an evening this week in one of the so-called resorts of the city. Many think he may appear before the grand jury. The Alton Times tells of the visitation as follows:
"One of the Alton ministers spent last evening — or a part of it in a gambling house on West Second street. He is a young man and an innocent looking chap. He put a pipe in his mouth, wore a pair of boots in which his trousers were tucked at the top of the boots, had on an old rain coat, pulled his hat so that it gave his a rakish air.
He did not consider himself disguised but he made himself look like a young man who makes money and lets go of it easily. So he went down to the building on West Second street, walked up to the rooms above Ballard and John's restaurant and walked right in. There was a good sized crowd of players and the silver dollars were strewn about in an abundance that surprised a man who had heard that there is a money stringency in Alton. He took no part in the play but he saw the others rolling dice. He states that at one time there was at least five hundred dollars on the table. In the same room some players were playing poker. He says they were playing cards and he believes the game was not 'flinch or five hundred.'
"The roulette table was in the same room with the crap table, but 'craps' was the most popular game. The roulette game was not running.
"The minister looked on until he had seen enough and then walked out. He will deliver an address at the Baptist church next Sunday and tell all about what he saw.
"The silver dollars were in stacks of twenty each and he counted the stacks until he had reached a total of $600 and then quit though he did not inventory the smaller coins."
—Edwardsville Intelligencer, Edwardsville, IL, Feb. 10, 1914, p. 1
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
"Dr." Dowie — Tells Miserable Sinners To Get Up Early
1902
Shouts Wisdom to Waukegan Followers — Makes Some Extraordinary Remarks in a Sermon
Waukegan, Ill., June 9. — John Alexander Dowie preached Sunday to the faithful in Zion City. It was the most remarkable address he has yet delivered. He said:
"May the Lord have mercy on you miserable sinners who want more than eight hours sleep. Men, you miserable sinners, get up early and give your wives a cup of milk while they are in bed. Women, if you have miserable, lazy husbands report them to me and I will give them hall Columbia. I will try a horn, and if that does not work I will yell fire. I will teach you all to get up early and work. There is another thing: You will have to stop this roving about nights. Ten o'clock is late enough for anybody to be out. Those found in the streets after that will be sent to the city prison."
—The Newark Advocate, Newark, Ohio, June 9, 1902, p. 1.
Shouts Wisdom to Waukegan Followers — Makes Some Extraordinary Remarks in a Sermon
Waukegan, Ill., June 9. — John Alexander Dowie preached Sunday to the faithful in Zion City. It was the most remarkable address he has yet delivered. He said:
"May the Lord have mercy on you miserable sinners who want more than eight hours sleep. Men, you miserable sinners, get up early and give your wives a cup of milk while they are in bed. Women, if you have miserable, lazy husbands report them to me and I will give them hall Columbia. I will try a horn, and if that does not work I will yell fire. I will teach you all to get up early and work. There is another thing: You will have to stop this roving about nights. Ten o'clock is late enough for anybody to be out. Those found in the streets after that will be sent to the city prison."
—The Newark Advocate, Newark, Ohio, June 9, 1902, p. 1.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Cult Has Christ in Rockford with Holy Ghost Children
Rockford, Illinois, 1889
Note: The first article mentions Rock Island but the actual place should have been Rockford. And the minister said to be the Son of God's name is missing an "i" that should be there, making it Schweinfurth. And I left the capitalization on "holy ghost" as published.
Something New for Rock Island
Of all the cranks that ever lived on the face of the earth Minneapolis has the worst, according to dispatches from there. His name is C. C. Whitney and he has a crazy idea in his head that Christ is on earth again in the flesh. He says that he lives in Rock Island and is a minister there by the name of Rev. G. J. Schwenfurth. Now we do not know whether there is such a man in Rock Island or not nor do we know anything further for or against him but Rock Island seems to be a queer place to select for the residence of the Christ. It is said that this man Whitney has succeeded in converting a number of people to his way of thinking.
—Davenport Morning Tribune, Davenport, IA, Feb. 16, 1889, p. 3.
MISS WELDON'S "HOLY CHILD"
Apostle Whitney Talks About the Latest Addition to Schweinfurth's Family
C. C. Whitney, the Minneapolis apostle of George J. Schweinfurth, has been seen and asked to explain the recent occurrence in Schweinfurth's household in Rockford, "the child born to Mary Weldon."
In reply Mr. Whitney said, "It was conceived by the holy ghost and born without sin. Miss Weldon is one of the redeemed."
"But did the holy ghost act through Mr. Schweinfurth?"
"That I am not prepared to say. The ways of God are inscrutable, but what I do say is we are no freelovers. We believe that absolute chastity should be the attribute of both sexes. We live perfectly pure, chaste lives."
"But how about man and wife, don't the members of your church who are married live together and raise children?"
"No, they do not. Any married couple bringing forth children would be considered guilty of adultery."
"But how about Miss Weldon?"
"That is different. She is one of the redeemed. The 'sanctified,' as St. Paul put it. None but the redeemed can bear children. These children are pure because they are conceived by the holy ghost, just as Jesus Christ was nearly 1,900 years ago."
"But how do you know Miss Weldon is redeemed or sanctified?"
"Because the spirit has announced that fact. It told her so three years ago when Mr. Schweinfurth was in Alpena, Mich."
"How many members of your church are redeemed?"
"I could not state positively, perhaps twelve or fifteen."
"Are any of them men?"
"None except Mr. Schweinfurth. Of course he is, as he is the son of God. The same spirit dwells in him that dwelt in Jesus Christ."
"Then do you claim that Mary Weldon was not approached by Mr. Schweinfurth and that he is not the physical father of her child?"
"I don't claim anything about which I don't know, but I know that child was conceived by the holy ghost."
"Do you think Miss Weldon would have borne that child if she had not seen a man for a year or two previous?"
"I do. I believe Miss Weldon to be, as she says she is, perfectly chaste."
"How, then, will the race be perpetuated?"
"By the holy ghost."
"The holy ghost will beget all the children when everybody is redeemed?"
"Yes, most certainly."
"What will man's function be? Wouldn't such an arrangement be considered rather partial?"
"I can't say as to that. All this is very mysterious. We can't divine God's purpose."
—Sioux Valley News, Correctionville, Iowa, Aug. 28, 1890, p. 1.
Note: In this article online, the writer says there was a cultish commune known as "Heaven," headed by George Jacob Schweinfurth, in Rockford. Some other interesting details are given there, including the cult eventually fading away and Schweinfurth moving to Chicago to sell real estate.
Note: The first article mentions Rock Island but the actual place should have been Rockford. And the minister said to be the Son of God's name is missing an "i" that should be there, making it Schweinfurth. And I left the capitalization on "holy ghost" as published.
Something New for Rock Island
Of all the cranks that ever lived on the face of the earth Minneapolis has the worst, according to dispatches from there. His name is C. C. Whitney and he has a crazy idea in his head that Christ is on earth again in the flesh. He says that he lives in Rock Island and is a minister there by the name of Rev. G. J. Schwenfurth. Now we do not know whether there is such a man in Rock Island or not nor do we know anything further for or against him but Rock Island seems to be a queer place to select for the residence of the Christ. It is said that this man Whitney has succeeded in converting a number of people to his way of thinking.
—Davenport Morning Tribune, Davenport, IA, Feb. 16, 1889, p. 3.
MISS WELDON'S "HOLY CHILD"
Apostle Whitney Talks About the Latest Addition to Schweinfurth's Family
C. C. Whitney, the Minneapolis apostle of George J. Schweinfurth, has been seen and asked to explain the recent occurrence in Schweinfurth's household in Rockford, "the child born to Mary Weldon."
In reply Mr. Whitney said, "It was conceived by the holy ghost and born without sin. Miss Weldon is one of the redeemed."
"But did the holy ghost act through Mr. Schweinfurth?"
"That I am not prepared to say. The ways of God are inscrutable, but what I do say is we are no freelovers. We believe that absolute chastity should be the attribute of both sexes. We live perfectly pure, chaste lives."
"But how about man and wife, don't the members of your church who are married live together and raise children?"
"No, they do not. Any married couple bringing forth children would be considered guilty of adultery."
"But how about Miss Weldon?"
"That is different. She is one of the redeemed. The 'sanctified,' as St. Paul put it. None but the redeemed can bear children. These children are pure because they are conceived by the holy ghost, just as Jesus Christ was nearly 1,900 years ago."
"But how do you know Miss Weldon is redeemed or sanctified?"
"Because the spirit has announced that fact. It told her so three years ago when Mr. Schweinfurth was in Alpena, Mich."
"How many members of your church are redeemed?"
"I could not state positively, perhaps twelve or fifteen."
"Are any of them men?"
"None except Mr. Schweinfurth. Of course he is, as he is the son of God. The same spirit dwells in him that dwelt in Jesus Christ."
"Then do you claim that Mary Weldon was not approached by Mr. Schweinfurth and that he is not the physical father of her child?"
"I don't claim anything about which I don't know, but I know that child was conceived by the holy ghost."
"Do you think Miss Weldon would have borne that child if she had not seen a man for a year or two previous?"
"I do. I believe Miss Weldon to be, as she says she is, perfectly chaste."
"How, then, will the race be perpetuated?"
"By the holy ghost."
"The holy ghost will beget all the children when everybody is redeemed?"
"Yes, most certainly."
"What will man's function be? Wouldn't such an arrangement be considered rather partial?"
"I can't say as to that. All this is very mysterious. We can't divine God's purpose."
—Sioux Valley News, Correctionville, Iowa, Aug. 28, 1890, p. 1.
Note: In this article online, the writer says there was a cultish commune known as "Heaven," headed by George Jacob Schweinfurth, in Rockford. Some other interesting details are given there, including the cult eventually fading away and Schweinfurth moving to Chicago to sell real estate.
Self-Styled Elijah III is Weak From Illness
1905
Chicago, Dec. 4. — That Dr. John Alexander Dowie has not recovered entirely from the effects of the stroke of paralysis which he suffered last September, was evidenced yesterday during his sermon in the Shiloh tabernacle in Zion City. He scarcely had begun his remarks, standing in the center of the platform, when he grew weak and for a moment was unable to continue. Assuring his followers that he was not ill, he drew a chair to the front of the platform and continued his address while sitting.
His voice did not show its old time power and he spoke in low tones. He referred to the persecution of Jews and said that he would dismiss any Zionite whom he heard speak slightingly of Jews. Dowie concluded his address, which lasted twenty-five minutes, stating that, while he felt weak and unwell, he believed he would live many years. His final remark produced a feeling or sorrow among his followers. He said:
"I shall be your leader here, or, if not here, I will be in the hereafter."
Fort Wayne, Indiana, 1905
Talk on Modern Miracles
The gospel meetings at the West Jefferson street Church of Christ have met with such success that they are to be continued every night during this week. Mr. Allen's subject tonight will be "Modern Miracle-Working Exposed." Miss Helen Gill will sing.
—Fort Wayne Sentinel, Fort Wayne, IN, Dec. 4, 1905
Chicago, Dec. 4. — That Dr. John Alexander Dowie has not recovered entirely from the effects of the stroke of paralysis which he suffered last September, was evidenced yesterday during his sermon in the Shiloh tabernacle in Zion City. He scarcely had begun his remarks, standing in the center of the platform, when he grew weak and for a moment was unable to continue. Assuring his followers that he was not ill, he drew a chair to the front of the platform and continued his address while sitting.
His voice did not show its old time power and he spoke in low tones. He referred to the persecution of Jews and said that he would dismiss any Zionite whom he heard speak slightingly of Jews. Dowie concluded his address, which lasted twenty-five minutes, stating that, while he felt weak and unwell, he believed he would live many years. His final remark produced a feeling or sorrow among his followers. He said:
"I shall be your leader here, or, if not here, I will be in the hereafter."
Fort Wayne, Indiana, 1905
Talk on Modern Miracles
The gospel meetings at the West Jefferson street Church of Christ have met with such success that they are to be continued every night during this week. Mr. Allen's subject tonight will be "Modern Miracle-Working Exposed." Miss Helen Gill will sing.
—Fort Wayne Sentinel, Fort Wayne, IN, Dec. 4, 1905
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Minister of Gospel Under Arrest for Counterfeiting Coins
1907
Preacher Made Coin
Minister of Gospel Is Under Arrest for Counterfeit
SPRINGFIELD, Il., June 17. — A federal grand. jury Saturday night returned an indictment against Rev. James R. Kaye, formerly pastor of the First Presbyterian church, and now editor of the Home Herald, published at Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago, charging him with manufacturing counterfeit money.
Molds for the manufacture of counterfeit dimes, quarters, half dollars and dollars were found in the basement of the house which the Rev. Kaye occupied while pastor of the First Presbyterian church in Lincoln.
When arrested he confessed to making the molds, but explained that he was only experimenting with them to see if he could manufacture medals to be presented to the children of the Sunday school as rewards for getting new pupils for the school.
—La Crosse Tribune, La Crosse, Wisconsin, June 17, 1907, p. 4.
Pastor Charged with Counterfeiting
Rev. James R. Kaye, of Oak Park, was indicted by the federal grand jury on a charge of having in his possession molds in similitude with United States coins. Rev. Mr. Kaye came to Springfield for the investigation, expecting to be indicted. As soon as the bill was reported Mr. Kaye furnished bond for his appearance for trial.
The molds and dies were found in the basement of the house formerly occupied by the minister in Lincoln, Ill., where he was pastor of the First Presbyterian church. After the church was combined with the Cumberland church, Mr. Kaye went to Oak Park and conducted a prohibition publication. The dies were found early in the winter by workmen repairing a furnace in the basement of the house. The facts at that time were suppressed.
Early in May gossip about the finding of the dies was revived and Capt. Porter, of the secret service bureau, began an investigation, which ended in finding a number of dies and a plate for printing one dollar bills. The plate and some of the dies were found in an outhouse and others were secreted in the basement of the dwelling. Some babbit metal was also discovered, but there was no trace of counterfeit coins. The dies were declared to be exceedingly crude and would not have turned out coins which would pass, but this plate was said to be an excellent one.
Capt. Porter and a number of witnesses from Lincoln and other parts of Logan county were the principal witnesses before the grand jury. When the accusation was first made against Kaye, he denied the seriousness of the charge and declared the dies were for the purpose of making souvenir medals for his Sunday school class. He said he used lead and even melted some old silver but finding he couldn't get the sharp finish, abandoned the work. He insisted that the finding of the dies was conclusive proof of his innocence.
Rev. Mr. Kaye was a popular pastor and leader in social reforms in Lincoln. He was a conversationalist of exceptional ability. He was in great demand as a speaker before women's clubs and stood high in the councils of the Lincoln Ministers' association. Mr. Kaye lives with his wife and two children at 302 Wisconsin avenue, Oak Park.
—The Pointer, Riverdale, Illinois, June 21, 1907, p. 6.
Notice has been received at the United States District Attorney's office in Springfield that Rev. James R. Kaye of Oak Park, former pastor of the Wheaton Congregational Church, who was convicted on a charge of counterfeiting, has filed his appeal in the United States District Court at Chicago.
—Daily Herald, Chicago, July 16, 1909, p. 15.
KAYE DODGES FEDERAL PRISON
Former Pastor Is Re-Sentenced to Peoria Workhouse.
Rev. James R. Kaye, the former Lincoln minister and later pastor of a fashionable church at Oak Park, and convicted of counterfeiting two years ago, has won his fight to escape the federal penitentiary at Fort Leavenworth. He appeared before Judge J. Otis Humphrey in the United States District Court in Springfield, and was re-sentenced to a six months' term in the Peoria workhouse. Kaye began his sentence to-night.
The efforts of the counterfeiting preacher to keep from wearing a convict's garb have attracted wide attention. Members of former congregations have contributed liberally to make a notable legal fight. Kaye's frank explanation of how molds and counterfeit money came to be found in his former home at Lincoln and his denial of any criminal intent find partial vindication in his reduced sentence.
Kaye was pastor of the First Presbyterian Church at Lincoln, where he also gave lectures at Lincoln College on Shakespeare and Browning and occupied the chair of theology. He had more than a local reputation for his literary and educational abilities. After leaving the Logan County town to go to Oak Park to take the pastorate of a prominent church, Lincoln's citizens were surprised to learn that molds used for making money had been found in the Presbyterian parsonage.
The Federal authorities caused Kaye's arrest and had him indicted in June, 1907. The following January the minister was found guilty by a jury in the United States Circuit Court in Springfield and was given a two years' sentence at Fort Leavenworth on a charge of counterfeiting.
—Daily Herald, Chicago, March 4, 1910, p. 11.
Note: There apparently was a Saturday Evening Post article about Rev. Kaye. It is mentioned in an article from Lincoln, Nebraska, and apparently in the Saturday Evening Post article Kaye's former residence is given as Lincoln, Nebraska. The Lincoln newspaper checked old directories and couldn't find anything about him, so referred to him as "the alleged Lincoln minister," then went on to tell his story. (Lincoln Daily News, Lincoln, NE, April 19, 1912, p. 16.) But of course the Illinois articles make clear he was pastor in Lincoln of Logan County, which is definitely Illinois.
Comment: This sentence carries some weight: "He insisted that the finding of the dies was conclusive proof of his innocence." He must not have felt guilty of much. It also is conclusive proof of his ignorance. Obviously when he moved, or before, he should have disposed of the dies and not left them lying around. And obviously he should have been experimenting with some other pattern than United States coins and one dollar bills. Smart about Shakespeare and Browning and conversation, not so smart about making Sunday School medals.
Preacher Made Coin
Minister of Gospel Is Under Arrest for Counterfeit
SPRINGFIELD, Il., June 17. — A federal grand. jury Saturday night returned an indictment against Rev. James R. Kaye, formerly pastor of the First Presbyterian church, and now editor of the Home Herald, published at Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago, charging him with manufacturing counterfeit money.
Molds for the manufacture of counterfeit dimes, quarters, half dollars and dollars were found in the basement of the house which the Rev. Kaye occupied while pastor of the First Presbyterian church in Lincoln.
When arrested he confessed to making the molds, but explained that he was only experimenting with them to see if he could manufacture medals to be presented to the children of the Sunday school as rewards for getting new pupils for the school.
—La Crosse Tribune, La Crosse, Wisconsin, June 17, 1907, p. 4.
Pastor Charged with Counterfeiting
Rev. James R. Kaye, of Oak Park, was indicted by the federal grand jury on a charge of having in his possession molds in similitude with United States coins. Rev. Mr. Kaye came to Springfield for the investigation, expecting to be indicted. As soon as the bill was reported Mr. Kaye furnished bond for his appearance for trial.
The molds and dies were found in the basement of the house formerly occupied by the minister in Lincoln, Ill., where he was pastor of the First Presbyterian church. After the church was combined with the Cumberland church, Mr. Kaye went to Oak Park and conducted a prohibition publication. The dies were found early in the winter by workmen repairing a furnace in the basement of the house. The facts at that time were suppressed.
Early in May gossip about the finding of the dies was revived and Capt. Porter, of the secret service bureau, began an investigation, which ended in finding a number of dies and a plate for printing one dollar bills. The plate and some of the dies were found in an outhouse and others were secreted in the basement of the dwelling. Some babbit metal was also discovered, but there was no trace of counterfeit coins. The dies were declared to be exceedingly crude and would not have turned out coins which would pass, but this plate was said to be an excellent one.
Capt. Porter and a number of witnesses from Lincoln and other parts of Logan county were the principal witnesses before the grand jury. When the accusation was first made against Kaye, he denied the seriousness of the charge and declared the dies were for the purpose of making souvenir medals for his Sunday school class. He said he used lead and even melted some old silver but finding he couldn't get the sharp finish, abandoned the work. He insisted that the finding of the dies was conclusive proof of his innocence.
Rev. Mr. Kaye was a popular pastor and leader in social reforms in Lincoln. He was a conversationalist of exceptional ability. He was in great demand as a speaker before women's clubs and stood high in the councils of the Lincoln Ministers' association. Mr. Kaye lives with his wife and two children at 302 Wisconsin avenue, Oak Park.
—The Pointer, Riverdale, Illinois, June 21, 1907, p. 6.
Notice has been received at the United States District Attorney's office in Springfield that Rev. James R. Kaye of Oak Park, former pastor of the Wheaton Congregational Church, who was convicted on a charge of counterfeiting, has filed his appeal in the United States District Court at Chicago.
—Daily Herald, Chicago, July 16, 1909, p. 15.
KAYE DODGES FEDERAL PRISON
Former Pastor Is Re-Sentenced to Peoria Workhouse.
Rev. James R. Kaye, the former Lincoln minister and later pastor of a fashionable church at Oak Park, and convicted of counterfeiting two years ago, has won his fight to escape the federal penitentiary at Fort Leavenworth. He appeared before Judge J. Otis Humphrey in the United States District Court in Springfield, and was re-sentenced to a six months' term in the Peoria workhouse. Kaye began his sentence to-night.
The efforts of the counterfeiting preacher to keep from wearing a convict's garb have attracted wide attention. Members of former congregations have contributed liberally to make a notable legal fight. Kaye's frank explanation of how molds and counterfeit money came to be found in his former home at Lincoln and his denial of any criminal intent find partial vindication in his reduced sentence.
Kaye was pastor of the First Presbyterian Church at Lincoln, where he also gave lectures at Lincoln College on Shakespeare and Browning and occupied the chair of theology. He had more than a local reputation for his literary and educational abilities. After leaving the Logan County town to go to Oak Park to take the pastorate of a prominent church, Lincoln's citizens were surprised to learn that molds used for making money had been found in the Presbyterian parsonage.
The Federal authorities caused Kaye's arrest and had him indicted in June, 1907. The following January the minister was found guilty by a jury in the United States Circuit Court in Springfield and was given a two years' sentence at Fort Leavenworth on a charge of counterfeiting.
—Daily Herald, Chicago, March 4, 1910, p. 11.
Note: There apparently was a Saturday Evening Post article about Rev. Kaye. It is mentioned in an article from Lincoln, Nebraska, and apparently in the Saturday Evening Post article Kaye's former residence is given as Lincoln, Nebraska. The Lincoln newspaper checked old directories and couldn't find anything about him, so referred to him as "the alleged Lincoln minister," then went on to tell his story. (Lincoln Daily News, Lincoln, NE, April 19, 1912, p. 16.) But of course the Illinois articles make clear he was pastor in Lincoln of Logan County, which is definitely Illinois.
Comment: This sentence carries some weight: "He insisted that the finding of the dies was conclusive proof of his innocence." He must not have felt guilty of much. It also is conclusive proof of his ignorance. Obviously when he moved, or before, he should have disposed of the dies and not left them lying around. And obviously he should have been experimenting with some other pattern than United States coins and one dollar bills. Smart about Shakespeare and Browning and conversation, not so smart about making Sunday School medals.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Evangelist Dug Up Facts On Congregants, Revival Closes Early
Illinois, 1909
EVANGELIST DUG UP ANCIENT FACTS
Havana, Dec. 4 — The series of revival meetings which has been going on in the Methodist church during the past three weeks closed last night. The end was rather unexpected since it was announced that they would be continued until at least Dec. 19 at the time they were begun. It seems that the Rev. E. B. Adams, the evangelist in charge, has lost a few influential friends among the members of the church by his manner of digging up incidents that have occurred in years long gone by and hurling them into the teeth of his congregation, and the unsupported rumor is going about the streets to the effect that his course was not pleasing to the people of the church generally and that this state of affairs is responsible for the sudden closing of the revival series.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, Dec. 14, 1909, page 2.
EVANGELIST DUG UP ANCIENT FACTS
Havana, Dec. 4 — The series of revival meetings which has been going on in the Methodist church during the past three weeks closed last night. The end was rather unexpected since it was announced that they would be continued until at least Dec. 19 at the time they were begun. It seems that the Rev. E. B. Adams, the evangelist in charge, has lost a few influential friends among the members of the church by his manner of digging up incidents that have occurred in years long gone by and hurling them into the teeth of his congregation, and the unsupported rumor is going about the streets to the effect that his course was not pleasing to the people of the church generally and that this state of affairs is responsible for the sudden closing of the revival series.
—The Daily Review, Decatur, IL, Dec. 14, 1909, page 2.
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