Baumeister Wins His Fight

New York, 1895

Rev. John Baumeister, who started a crusade against the Sunday concerts at College Point, has won his fight. At the meeting of the village trustees Tuesday night they decided to prosecute all saloon keepers who have music in their places on Sunday.


Warned to Stop His Crusade

In Friday morning's mail Rev. John Baumeister, pastor of the Reformed church at College Point, who has started a crusade against Sunday concerts, received a letter warning him that if he did not cease his fight he would be tarred and feathered.


Beer Goes All Right

BUT BANDS OF MUSIC MUST NOT PLAY ON SUNDAY.

A Queer Crusade Started in College Point by Clergymen of the Reformed and Catholic Churches — Hurdy-Gurdies and Base Ball Also Interdicted.

College Point is a great place for picnics, and a good part of the town is devoted to enticing beer gardens and halls, where beer flows freely seven days of the week with the approbation of everybody, ministers included. In the summer time large parties of thirsty New Yorkers go there to fish and sail and dance and drink, to the great profit of the town, or that part of it that sells beer.

The ministers and other good people don't object to this, but they do object to the bands and hurdy-gurdies, dancing and baseball games, and, headed by Pastor Baumeister of the First Reformed church and Father Schumach of the Catholic church, they have begun a fight against these things.

There is no law and order league in the village at present. There used to be one, but when an amicable agreement was made with the retail liquor dealers' association by which the latter were allowed to sell as much beer as they wanted on Sundays if they would suppress the boisterous spirits of their New York guests, it died a natural death.

The agreement was lived up to until Easter Sunday, when there was a baseball game and an amateur theatrical show in spite of the protests of Pastor Baumeister. He warned the village trustees that such a show was a desecration of the Sabbath and contrary to the penal code, but all he got in return was the prevention of a repetition of the show on the following Sunday and an anonymous letter threatening him with a coat of tar and feathers, which, he says, didn't frighten him, however.

Thinking that the disposition of the trustees was unfavorable to a quiet Sabbath, he informed them that if any bands or hurdy-gurdies were heard within the limits of that place on a Sunday, he would go before the Grand Jury and tell all about that theatrical entertainment and make it hot for some one.

The liquor dealers and their friends say there have never been bands and hurdy-gurdies in the past, and they don't know what the pastor is driving at, because they intend that there shall be none in the future. They think the zeal of the minister, who is a young man, has carried him somewhat out of his depth, and because he has gone so far he feels that he must go further in order not to be inconsistent.

Pastor Baumeister said to a reporter on Sunday:

"All we want is a quiet Sunday. We allow the saloon keepers to sell beer on that day and say nothing, but we are going to take measures to prevent them from disturbing us at worship, and we think they will, if not warned in time. This town is losing its best people on account of the Sunday crowds, and we want to put a stop to it, if we can. I have my congregation behind me, and also the unqualified support of Father Schumach. We're going to have an improved police force and lots of good things before we stop; but we won't object to Sunday liquor selling."

—The Long Island Farmer, Jamaica, NY, May 3, 1895, p. 1.

Music the Child of Christianity

There is an art which Christianity created almost wholly, asking little of outside aid. Music is that peculiar child. The long-continued vision of Heaven, the struggle of the tones of voice and of instrument to find something worthy of the deep feelings of religion, resulted at last in those mighty chants which formed the mountain springs of our musical Nile. There could have been no music had not depth of feeling come to man. The men who went up to the pagan temples went with no such love, with no sorrow of penitence, with no exultant joy. It was necessary for Jesus Christ to come along and transfer religion from the form to the spirit, and from an "airy nothingness" to a love stronger than life, before hymns like those of Luther and Wesley and Watts could break from the heart. The doctrine of repentance must live in the world awhile before we can have a "Miserere," and the exultant hope of the Christian must come before the mind can invent a "Gloria." — SWING.

Too Much Ragtime In Church

1917

Sing Good Gospel Songs, Bishop Tells M. E. Preachers.

LIMA, Ohio — At the opening of the second day's session of the West Ohio Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop Thirkield spoke on "Hymnology" to 500 preachers, urging them to use the Methodist Hymnal more, with its splendid gospel songs. He said too many flippant, ragtime tunes, with frivolous wording, have crept into the church today.

—The Saturday Blade, Chicago, Sept. 16, 1916, p. 4.

Hardly Musical

1899

"What man has done, man can do," is a good motto, but it needs to be interpreted in the light of common sense. Every now and then we hear of a man who takes it to mean that a little perseverance will make a Newton or a Beethoven out of the stupidest of us.

Here is a story connected with Liddell, the somewhat over-positive Dean of Christ Church, borrowed from "The Spectator."

Doctor Corfe, the organist of Christ Church, was at this time sorely plagued by one of the choirmen, whose "alto" singing was miserably bad. He came to the dean.

"Mr. Dean, I really cannot have that man singing any longer. He spoils the whole choir. If only he sang 'bass,' it would not so much matter, but such an 'alto' is intolerable."

"Very well, Doctor Corfe," said the dean, "I will deal with the matter."

So the choirman was sent for.

"Doctor Corfe complains of your singing, and says he cannot have you singing 'alto' any longer; but that it would not be so bad if you sang 'bass.' For the future, therefore, be good enough to sing `bass."

"But, Mr. Dean, I cannot sing 'bass,'" rejoined the man.

"Well," answered Liddell, "I am no musician, but sing 'bass' you must! Good morning."

And for many a year afterward, as can be but too well remembered, the man sang "bass" till he was finally shelved. — Youth's Companion.

Watch Night Dec. 31, 1900 Leads To Revival

Iowa, 1901

The watch night meeting in the Methodist church, which was a season of wonderful interest, has been followed by revival services each night except Saturday night. There has been a steady and perceptible increase in the results of the meeting and the prospect for a good work is encouraging.

Sabbath afternoon a children's meeting was held, and every child present was at the altar and nearly all of them prayed. The congregations are good and there is the best of order in all classes. The young people have done themselves credit by their excellent behavior and attention. The pastor, Rev. Cozier, is much gratified at the praise-worthy conduct of the young men and women of the town while at church, and the attention given to the preaching.

There are afternoon meetings this week at 2:30, to which everybody is cordially invited, especially the professed Christians of Humeston and vicinity. Every friend of the cause and believer in Jesus Christ has an opportunity now to show their loyalty and devotion to the Master.

—Humeston New Era, Humeston, Iowa, Jan. 9, 1901.


Penny Concerts

One of the churches of Chester, Pennsylvania has introduced what is a novelty there — a penny concert. These concerts are held in the church on each Friday evening, being chiefly designed for children. The children has always been crowded on these occasions, both little and big people attending in great numbers. They are charged 1 cent admission to an entertainment that is worth many times more, and which is wholesome and instructive. The smaller children are always given the center seats in front, the larger ones the side seats. It is so distinctively an affair for children that the big people who attend have to content themselves with the back seats if there are any left.

No Tango at White House

1914

But Circumstances Obviate Necessity of the President Ruling

Washington, Jan. 15. — President Wilson apparently is awaiting the verdict of clericals on both sides of the water who are investigating the tango before placing the stamp of his approval or his ban upon this and kindred dances.

All Washington — or at least the major portion of the national capital's society which attended President Wilson's reception to the diplomatic corps, is discussing the manner in which the president evaded the question of whether to tango or not to tango?

When the crowd thinned out, toward midnight, the younger set, who had come to the executive mansion with the expectation of indulging in a modest "hesitation" or tango, waited for the Marine Band to begin the syncopated melodies appropriate for these dances. Marches and Viennese waltzes seemed to be the only music the band could play, and the word was soon passed that the President and Mrs. Wilson thought it best not to have any dancing at this, their first reception.

Revival Services at Champlin Chapel

Iowa, 1914

The revival services which began Tuesday evening at Champlin chapel, corner of Burton avenue and Riehl street, are growing in interest. The congregations are increasing and every indication points to a successful series.

Among the attractive features is the boys' chorus, composed of thirty boys of the ages of 8 to 14. The boys appeared first last evening, and their singing was an inspiration to all who heard them. They received hearty applause. Rev. E. M. Rhoades is their director and they will sing again tonight.

The stereopticon is being used to illustrate the hymns.

Last evening Dr. John Bunyan Smith preached on "What Must I Do to Be Saved?" Tonight his subject will be "Repentance." Services begin at 7:30, and all are invited.


Linden Revival Services

Rev. F. Q. Brown of St. Paul's church spoke at the Linden Methodist church last night where revivals are in progress. His sermon, on the text, "Who will consecrate himself to this work?" was a powerful one. The speaker made it plain as to what is expected of Christians, and of the reward when they persevere. The orchestra selections and congregational singing were highly enjoyed. Tonight Rev. T. A. Trimble of Mt. Auburn, a former pastor, will preach. He will be assisted by singers from Mt. Auburn. All are invited to attend.

—Waterloo Evening Courier, Waterloo, IA, Jan. 15, 1914, p. 7.

Priest Makes a Deal with Coughing Congregation

1874

The Tablet relates a story of a priest who had a coughing congregation, and who cured them thus: No sooner had he ceased to speak than, singular to relate, one cough after another died out until soon there was absolute silence in the church. Whereupon the father said something to the following effect: "My friends, I know that in this weather colds abound, and therefore it is difficult for you to refrain from coughing. Still it is impossible for me to preach and for you to cough at the same time. Let us come, then, to a mutual agreement, so that you may cough and I may preach without disturbing each other. I will speak say for five or ten minutes at a time; when I raise my handkerchief there will be an interval allowed for coughing. As soon as I let it fall I will resume my sermon, and your silence." The plan succeeded admirably.


Couldn't Blow His Horn in That Church

An organist, for many years engaged in one of the noted churches in this city, tells this:

A strange man was acting as sexton. An old gentleman who was deaf took his seat in a pew, and produced from his pocket an ear-trumpet of curious shape, and to the dismay of the temporary sexton, raised it toward his face. The sexton sprang to his side, and said something in a low voice, whereupon the gentleman endeavored to raise the trumpet to his ear, but was prevented by the sexton seizing his hand. With increasing voice and excitement, he said, "You mustn't, Sir. You mustn't blow that horn in here. If you do, I shall be obliged to put you out!" And the good old man, pocketing the bugle, heard nothing of the service or sermon.

Church Ban on Encores Limits Otherwise Delightful Concert

Chicago, 1914

MRS. GRABIG'S CONCERT

Friday evening, April 24th, at the Englewood Baptist Church, Stewart and Englewood Aves., Mary Cleveland Grabig directed and accompanied the Aeolian quartette in a most successful concert.

The ensemble numbers were marvels of beauty, both the selections and their singing by the quartette. It was a genuinely expressed regret that the church has put a ban on encores, as so many regretted not hearing the sprightly and humorous encores, usually given by the quartette.

Master Joe Winterbottom, the boy soprano, has an exquisite voice, and sang his solo and soprano part of his duet to the delight of all.

Messrs. Palmer, Rietdyke, Weidmaar and Granath, have beautiful voices and sang their solos with remarkable artistry and power.

It was the universally expressed opinion that in the many public appearances in Chicago, never has Mrs. Grabig played with such perfection and technic, brilliancy of touch and tenderness of expression. As several people said, "Mrs. Grabig does not play the piano, she talks to you."

—Suburbanite Economist, Chicago, May 1, 1914, p. 3.

Played "Trust and Obey," Then Premonition of Death

1913

Youth Has Premonition of Death, but Declares Himself Ready

Kansas City, Mo. — Earl Orvis, twenty-one years old was drowned in the Missouri River while practicing for the ten-mile swimming event.

The family of young Orvis believe he had a premonition of death. Last night at his home he played the strains of "Trust and Obey" on his cornet.

Suddenly throwing the instrument aside, he turned to his mother and told her he was ready to do as the words of the song be played suggested.

Sunday morning the young man with his mother went to the Holy Catholic church, where Orvis confessed and received the blessing.

In the afternoon he went with a companion for his practice for the swimming contest. He swam several miles and was crossing the river to make a landing when he sank. Efforts to find the body were unavailing.

"Earl knew something was going to happen," sobbed his mother, when told of the drowning. "It was God's will. Earl trusted and obeyed."

—The Evening Tribune, Albert Lea, MN, Sept. 2, 1913, p. 6.

Remembrances of Old Time Preachers – Whispering, Howling, Crying

1901

Hot Tamales
By Walt Mason

The person who is waxing old notices a great difference between the church services of these times, and the services in the grand old days when he was a boy. The preacher of the old time generally had an elaborate pulpit to stand in. Sometimes the pulpit was away up on the wall, like a clock; sometimes it was on a platform; but there was always a pulpit, and it was often imposing in the massive grandeur of its architecture. The pastor of the old days generally pounded and kicked the pulpit when he got warmed up, so it had to be strong; the pastor of the church we attended about forty centuries ago used to attack the pulpit in a frenzied manner that often scared us. The old-time pastor favored a style of oratory that is seldom heard nowadays. He whispered for a while and then he howled for a while; and often he wept. And there was practically no end to his sermon. He thought he wasn't earning his stipend unless he preached until his voice gave out, or a blood vessel broke. The modern pastor frequently has nothing more like a pulpit than a little stand or desk; he speaks to the congregation in a conversational tone, and he keeps one eye on the clock, so as to saw off his discourse in proper time. As a consequence it is really no great ordeal to go to church. It's often possible to sleep while the sermon is being preached, and wake up in time for the music, which is generally good.

The pastors of these time are far more considerate than the old time clergymen used to be. If a man went to sleep in church a quarter of a century ago, the pastor would slam the Bible down on the pulpit, and roar, and make such a noise that the sleeper would wake. Nowadays, when a pastor sees one of his flock asleep, he lowers his voice in order that the slumberer may not be disturbed. The time is coming when there will be no preaching in church. Preaching is superfluous and often annoying. Music is the stuff. There is more religion in music than in any quantity of sermons.

I'm always glad to go to church,
And hear the word, and then
I'm always glad to take my hat
And get outdoors again.

—Lincoln Evening News, Lincoln, NE, Feb. 12, 1901, p. 4.

Leader of "Holy Jumpers" Tells Experiences in Religious Life

1909

CONFESSIONS OF MRS. HARVEY

Leader of "Holy Jumpers" Gives Interesting Experiences in Religious Life

Mrs. E. L. Harvey, wife of the secretary of the Metropolitan Church association, otherwise known as the Holy Jumpers, a woman of much force of character and ability and one of the leading spirits of the sect, has an interesting article entitled "A Page of My Experience" in the current number of The Burning Bush. From this article we make the following selections:

From childhood I was brought up in the Methodist church and Sunday school and later in the missionary societies and Epworth league. I saw around me a company of young people who professed to love the Lord, who were members of the church but the great object with all of us was to make our class or our society a success.

Only for the week of prayer in the winter time was a special effort made to get souls saved and in that only a very few took part in assisting the minister or evangelist. Again, in the summer time the camp meeting would meet and for ten days the people were stirred up to think about getting someone saved.

Whenever I would hear a sermon preached which told of a life higher than that which I experienced, I was at the altar to seek holiness, but, immediately, on the return from camp meeting, came the usual round of strawberry suppers and ice cream sociables in the name of religion, and these sapped away the piety of each individual.

Trying to Outdo.

As a matter of course in all of these social affairs there entered much rivalry and jealousy, each one trying to outdo the other and secure the approbation of her fellow-workers — then came the vieing with each other in the matter of dress. Of course these things were supposed to be hidden, and yet in each heart was the desire to appear as well as her neighbor.

I had been married and we were engaged in mission work, but, we still attended the old church; but the fact that we were laboring in mission work caused me to trim down somewhat and helped me to get a different view of matters, and I began to see more clearly that real work for God did not consist in giving sociables and parties.

Realizing a Need.

A holiness evangelist was called to the Methodist church where we held our membership, and I eagerly listened to the red-hot truths and went to the altar to be sanctified as I thought that that was what I needed. The preacher told me if anyone in the church was sanctified, I was and that I should not be at the altar. However, I knew the stirrings of my own heart and knew that I needed the abiding presence of Christ.

God certainly changed my heart at that time and all desire for the social doings was taken from me and God helped me to take a decided stand against them and to refuse to lend any assistance to those who carried them on.

God's Voice Was Heeded.

My husband's business was prospering and I had an easy, care-free life and could have whatever I desired. God led me to spend much time each day in prayer and in reading His Word and holiness literature and I well remember how He talked to me about the manner in which I wore my hair, and very gladly I made it plain to please Him. The Lord also had talked to me about singing worldly songs and these too were laid aside. Then came up the question of fancy hats and, as though it were yesterday, I remember the first one I tore to pieces, taking off the drooping feathers and the flowers. The devil said that I could never stand it; but I believed God, and ten years have flown by since that time and I have never wanted any such things.

Silk dresses came in for condemnation by the Lord and these too were given up. Then came the wearing of gold. I had often been ashamed in our mission work on seeing my diamond engagement ring flash and would turn it under my hand, but when God talked to me about this and also all other gold — rings, pins, chains, watch, etc. — I became so heartsick and disgusted with gold that I could scarcely bear the sight of brass buttons and it was no trial to lay it off, and later I was delighted to see the gold and diamond "treasures" traded off to help pay for a bus to carry students to a noon meeting held years ago in Chicago.

Thus it was with other matters of clothing — the tailor-made suits became a thing of the past, as well as the sealskin coat which went to help pay expenses of the Bible school. These things all belong to the long-ago — the time which we would not recall for all there is in this world.

The Light Was Dim.

We heard no preaching upon these things — the light was dim. Once in a while some old saint would say a word but the holiness evangelists enjoyed coming to our home and we enjoyed entertaining them, but they did not speak out against anything they saw.

Dr. Carradine's Opinions.

It was in Dr. Carradine's meetings that God sanctified my soul; but Dr. Carradine told me that the Lord would never ask me to take off my wedding ring as it was the bond of matrimony —but, nevertheless, it went for I knew that gold was gold and God said through His apostle that it was not to be worn by the saints. Although Dr. Carradine in his public preaching ridiculed "rooster tail feathers" and plumes, yet he told me the feathers in a certain hat of mine were all right, and told me he believed the prettiest trimming for a lady's hat was ostrich feathers, and showed me the pictures of his wife and one or two of his daughters with hats heavy with plumes, which of course must have been bought with money which he received from holiness preaching.

God had told me I must not sing worldly songs, but Dr. Carradine, while at our home, brought in two copies of a song, "Her Mem'ry Brings Me No Regret," giving me one which he asked me to sing and sending one to his daughter in St. Louis.

The Home in Question.

The Lord began to talk to my husband and me about our home with its hardwood floors, oriental rugs and furnishings. I asked Dr. Carradine what he thought about that. He told me to never give it up, that it was none too good and that if we would give it up and live in a tent with a rug in it, someone would come along and say we ought not to have the rug. But still the voice of God kept talking and reminding us that there were thousands of dollars tied up in a home for us, which could be used to put missionaries into the field and win souls. The decision was made; the devil stood by, telling me I could never stand it as I had always loved my home. He said we were deteriorating and we were degenerating and would soon have nothing.

I told the Lord if I had to dress in calico and live in a tent the rest of my life I was going to be His child and do His bidding. It was sweet to do His will. The day came when we were to pack up and move out and to the glory of God I can say that there was not a sigh nor a tear but a constant song. A friend afterward remarked that as she saw the packing going on, she did not see how I could sing.

The Distribution.

When the different articles of furniture were distributed, some to the Children's Home, some to the Missionary Home, some to the Bible school it was a delight to see them used, not for self, but for the glory of God. Some pieces were sold and the money put directly into the work of the Lord. Then came the selling of the home — the title passed into the new owner's hands; the money went into the Lord's work; the bridges were burned, and, praise God, to this present day through the years that have passed since then we have never had one desire to have the home back again, but have thoroughly enjoyed the life into which the Lord has led us.

God Almighty Speaks Again.

When our home was sold we had no thought of living in the Bible school, but there the Lord plainly led us. Then the Lord called for my husband's business. It was prospering and growing; the proceeds had long been used for the Lord, but now He said, "Strip for the race and lay aside these burdens and let others assume these responsibilities."

So the business was sold, passing into other hands who bought it — name and all. This money also was put into the Lord's work, and there was no temptation to touch any of it to get clothing or anything for ourselves. Thank God, our Christ was welcomed to it all. He has cared for us during the years since that time, has clothed and fed us and we fear not the future, but trust God always.

—The Waukesha Freeman, Waukesha, WI, July 1, 1909, p. 2.

Pastor Defends Proposition of Existence of Real Angels

Lincoln, NE, 1909

BELIEVES IN REAL ANGELS

Dr. Herbert Yeuell Defends Proposition of Their Existence.

The sermon of the evening at the First Christian church last night by Dr. Herbert Yeuell was upon the theme, "Why the Angels Rejoice." The Bible reading was from the fifteenth chapter of Luke, containing the greatest of all parables, the "Prodigal Son." The usual spirited song service was conducted by Prof. A. F. Buss.

A touching solo was sung by Mr. Sturgiss, entitled "Jesus is the One."

The text of the sermon was from the tenth verse of the fifteenth chapter of Luke, "There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."

Dr. Yeuell unequivocally and firmly defended the proposition of the real existence of real angels. The fact that we have never seen an angel is no proof that none exist. Neither have we seen gravity or ether or air. We take many things upon faith in the affairs of life. It is only fair to take spiritual things upon faith as well. The whirring of angels' wings are heard throughout all of the history of God's universe, and the development of His people.

The evangelist scored the doctrine of spiritualism and deplored the confusion that its advocates have spread. The angels of God are not dark winged shakers of tables, giving weird knocks and signs. The angels of God are creatures of real dignity and power. They are real instrumentalities of God, in working out his purposes in sacred and profane history.

Their song, "Glory to God, Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men," has reverberated throughout the whole Christian era.

Dr. Yeuell maintained that figuratively the humble followers and doers of God's will upon earth are in a sense his angels, but this does not disprove the existence of the supernal, heavenly messengers.

The philosophy of heaven is plain that the ninety and nine are not large enough an average for the heavenly fold. God wants that last hundredth sinner to return to the fold.

Jesus Christ lived in close touch with the angels of God. They buoyed Him up. They often surrounded Him in loving ministration.

They surrounded Jesus in His times of crisis. They rejoiced and exulted in His demonstration of power in so many instances.

The angels of God are real, effective and potent influences in the universe. We cannot afford to discredit their existence or their ministrations.

At the close of the sermon the ordinance of baptism was administered. This service is always especially beautiful as administered in this new church building, owing to the very effective illumination.

The sermon for tonight will be upon the theme, "Nebuchadnezzar's Furnaces." Meeting will begin sharp at 7:30. All are invited.

—The Nebraska State Journal, Lincoln, NE, Dec. 8, 1909, page 7.

Winnipeg Churches: "Changing Years, Changeless Christ"

Winnipeg, January 9, 1915

Charles G. Hounshell, traveling secretary of the student volunteer movement, will preach the university sermon to the students of the Winnipeg colleges at the Vaughan street Y.M.C.A. Sunday morning at 11 o'clock. Mr. Hounshell is a returned missionary from Korea, and his subject will be "Christ Adequate to Meet the Needs of the World."

Rev. A. E. Ribourg, assistant rector of Holy Trinity church, will take for his subject Sunday evening "The Universal and the Everlasting Empire of Christ; Thy Kingdom Is an Everlasting Kingdom and Thy Kingdom Endureth Throughout All Generations."

Rev. J. C. Madill, late of Vancouver, will preach in St. John's Presbyterian church on Sunday morning at 11 o'clock. His subject will be "My Church, Peter and the Keys."

Mr. Whiting's subjects at Young church on Sunday will be those which would have been preached at the services a week ago but for his sudden illness. In the morning there will be a talk to children on "What the Old Clock Said," and the sermon subject "The Changing Years and the Changeless Christ," is a challenge in the midst of the flux of perpetual change for men to seek the highest and the abiding. In the evening the subject, "Five Great Things in National Life," in which we are to look for a little time at the large things that enter into our heritage, is to be surrounded by a most attractive musical service. Mr. Habbeshaw will sing a solo, and a double male quartette will give a selection. The anthem, "Hark, Hark, My Soul," by Houseley, will be most effective. Mr. Jordan will precede the evening service by a half-hour organ recital, commencing at 6:30. The doors are open at 6. During the week evenings it is proposed to hold special services in the upper school room, beginning with the Epworth league on Monday night and continuing throughout the week each evening at 8 o clock.

"Thinking Red," or "The Man Behind the Guns," will be the subject of Rev. J. E. Hughson's sermon at Grace church Sunday evening. Mr. Hughson will show that the teachers of "German culture" have made a nation of "blood and iron," and are largely responsible for the present war. Out of these facts will come the question. "Should we control the teaching of our colleges? Does it matter what we think?"

In St. Paul's Presbyterian church, Rev. P. Bruce Thornton will speak upon the following subject next Sunday evening: "Three men I have met during the past week — an unpopular man, a man with a secret care, and an overcoming man." The morning subject is: "The Projection of the West into the East." Dr. A. J. W. Myers, of Toronto, will address the Christian Endeavor society at 8:30. His subject will be, "What the Young People Can Do for the Church."

At Zion Methodist church, Pacific avenue, just off Princess, Rev J. L. Batty, pastor, will preach at both services on Sunday. Rev. J. S. Hatfield is assistant pastor.

—Manitoba Morning Free Press, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, January 9, 1915, page 16.

Discussion of Movies Will Be Held in Church

Oakland, California, 1921

Rev. John Stephens, pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church, will preach at both services tomorrow. At 11 o'clock his subject will be "America's Greatest Treasure." In the evening at 7:30 o'clock he will deal with the subject. "The Supreme Teacher," the first in a series of sermons on the general subject, "The Teaching of Jesus"

Preliminary to the evening service a discussion will be held of moving pictures. In connection with the evening service a musical program will be rendered by the church choir, consisting of a large chorus and the following quartet: Mrs. J. H. Speer, soprano; Miss Alice McComb, contralto; Herbert P. Mee, tenor; and Fred N. Anderson, baritone. Bessie Beatty Roland is the church organist and choir director.

The Men's club of the church, with a membership of over 200, will hold its monthly dinner on Thursday evening of next week. An interesting program of speeches and musical numbers has been prepared.

—Oakland Tribune, Oakland, California, April 9, 1921, page 8.

Children's Day Program, 1904

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 1904

Unusually Interesting Exercises at First Baptist Church

On Sunday morning in place of the regular church service, the First Baptist Sunday school gave its Children's Day program. The large audience was charmed with one of the finest exercises of the kind ever given.

The bright songs by the school and those of the primary department were sung with enthusiasm and spirit. The committee in charge had spared no effort in making the church beautiful with flowers not in the preparation of the program and each number showed the care given it.

Especial mention must be made of the recitation, "The Starless Crown," by Miss Helen McIntyre, and of the Emblematic Piece, "The Song of the Heart" by the Misses Baker, Blanche Krebs, Walters, West, Hopper, Goodell, Jennings, Reat, Jones, Mabel Krebs, Smith. The following is the program in full:

Song by the school: silent prayer; response, "The Lord is in His Holy Temple," Mrs. Farmer; 100th Psalm by three boys; Scripture response, Supt. and school; song, primary department; recitation, "The Little Preacher," Josephine Snyder; song by the school; recitation, "The Starless Crown," Helen McIntyre; song, primary department; recitation, "Discontent," Ethel Jones; song, by the school; recitation and song, Onalee Pollins and eight others. Five minutes' talk, Miss Main, Collection; song, by the school' emblematic piece, eleven girls, Doxology.

—The Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, June 13, 1904, page 5.

The Millennium for Pianos Has Come!

Advertisement, 1914
Click graphic for larger version

Excerpts from the ad's copy blocks:

ONLY 15 MINUTES TO A CUSTOMER
The time limit is 15 minutes. Buy quick. Our sales force is absolutely worn out. Pianos will be sold as fast as they can write the contracts. When you see the Piano you want "Nail it." Do not hold back. We will sell you any Piano at practically your own price.

KEEP MOVING AND KEEP TO THE REAR OF THE STORE
Please do not stand in one place. Keep moving and in this way you will do your part to enable us to handle the mob that will be here.

WE WILL DELIVER PIANOS TILL MIDNIGHT
We will deliver every Piano sold if possible, but we will not deliver Pianos on the Sabbath day.

A CLEAN SWEEP. ALL PIANOS MUST GO AT SOME PRICE
We have cut the prices. We have literally slashed them to atoms.

A LAST WORD
Our race is run. This is the last call. It is up to you now. Will You Be Here?

W.T. CRANE CO.
352 South Salina Street
Syracuse, New York

—The Syracuse Herald, Syracuse, New York, April 24, 1914, page 18.

Churches Compete to Control Children's Conduct

1922

A CHALLENGE TO CHURCHES

DR. M'KEEVER ADDRESSES ANNUAL MINISTERS' BANQUET.

Juvenile Director Says Institutions Must Compete at Once With Commercialized Entertainments.

The conduct of children, whether it be right or wrong, is determined by environment, because boys and girls are neither righteous nor sinners until good or evil arrangements shape their conduct and for this reason the churches must plan activities of the right sort, declared Dr. William A. McKeever of Lawrence, Kan., juvenile director of the national Presbyterian temperance board, in an address at the annual Lincoln ministers banquet at the Grand hotel Monday evening. The meeting was held under the auspices of the Lincoln ministerial association and was attended by about fifty ministers and wives. Dr. S. Mills Hays was toastmaster and introduced the speaker of the evening. Doctor McKeever said in part:

"In one sense of the word, I am glad that certain big commercial interests are out to exploit the growing generation for all they will bring of financial gain. This business aggression is putting militancy back into the church. It must fight for its right to control the youth of this land or lose them body and soul.

"Whoever romps with the small children, goes to the games with the young athletes, puts on the happiest entertainments for youthful lovers, is to be accorded the right to shape their destinies. Those working thru the church, the home and the school may have this job if they will take it, otherwise it will go over to the professional amusement interests.

Children Are Neutral.

Children are neither good nor bad until occasion makes them so. Youths are neither righteous nor sinners until good or evil arrangements shape their conduct according to the influence.

"The churches and their colleagues may have the children and young people if they will go out after them. There is no evil force here in this city which can long withstand this powerful influence for good and for righteous behavior which lies within the grasp of the local church organizations, once they become united.

"What the churches everywhere need today is a definite and positive program based upon the deep essentials resident within the great unchanging human nature. Too many of our big churches are proceeding in a detached and isolated field. Too many are running a sort of competition to neighboring churches of other sects. Too many are ministering to groups made up almost entirely of an adult membership.

Must Win Youths Back.

"The thin line of the stream of humanity which is supposed to pass forward through the church is at adolescence. The youths varying in age from sixteen to twenty have nearly all been lured away by certain worldly and commercialized enticements. To win these back is our challenge, and win we must.

"I urge that the united churches of this city enter upon a common campaign intended to entice the young of the love-dream age. Let us cease to criticize and complain, but get busy with a program. Let us discontinue our remarks about the lure of sin and make the lure of righteousness the reality which is possible. If such is desired I shall be pleased to prepare a detailed outline for the united church effort here and to cover some of the following points:

"A plan for an inter-church social union of the young, intended to supplant the influences of the jazz dance and the cabaret.

"A plan whereby the Sunday schools may enter regularly into the play, the athletics and the happy sociability of children and youths.

Offset the Movies.

"A plan for counteracting the evil influences upon youth, of the salacious types of photoplay and vaudeville performance, and for their defense against the most hurtful cigarette habit.

"A plan for continuous publicity and propaganda in support of the constructive program as here outlined. The good deeds of the churches in behalf of the boys and girls can be brought daily into a reasonable number of news items that will grip the attention of the mass of readers and draw public opinion to our side.

"The young generation is never out of date but always up to the minute. They are never behind the times but they create the times socially and morally. With us older ones it is simply a question of our readiness to interpret the Bible and religion in terms of the fresh, eager interests of youthful human nature. We can and must make the church and its organizations all centers of human interest, if only for the sake of controlling the boys and girls whom we never cease to love."

—The Nebraska State Journal, Lincoln, Nebraska, June 6, 1922, page 7.

Reception for Fanny J. Crosby Tonight (1899)

Syracuse, New York, 1899

Reception to Fanny J. Crosby

Fanny J. Crosby, the blind hymn writer, will give an entertainment this evening at the Bellevue Avenue M.E. church. After the programme a reception will be given to Miss Crosby. The programme follows:

Singing by the congregation of one of Fanny J. Crosby's hymns.
Prayer
Introduction, by the pastor.
Recitation of her poems, Fanny J. Crosby.
Duet, selection from F. J. Crosby, by Mr. and Mrs. Frank Huntley.
Reminiscences from her life, by Fanny J. Crosby.
Personal associations with Fanny Crosby at Tully Lake, by Mrs. John Roberts.
Solo, "Hide Thou Me," (F. J. Crosby), by Mrs. W. C. Baird.
Recitations (humorous), Fanny J. Crosby.
Ladies' quartet, "Speed Away" (F. J. Crosby), Mrs. Gallagher, Mrs. Baird, Mrs. Houghton and Mrs. Huntley.
Recitations, Fanny J. Crosby.
Singing by the congregation, "All the Way My Saviour Leads Me" (F. J. Crosby).

—The Evening Herald, Syracuse, New York, August 29, 1899, page 5.

Clergyman Refuted: Teddy Bears Don't Kill Maternal Instinct

1907

THE MATERNAL INSTINCT

A Chicago clergyman, who frankly states his belief that sensationalism is a good thing for the church, has hired a brass band to play at intervals during the service. Another clergyman, with apparently the same ideals but less nerve — he doesn't live in Chicago — shouts vehemently to a waiting world to beware the "Teddy bear," it promotes race suicide by killing the maternal instinct in little girls. As between these two we vastly prefer the brass band disciple as the more straightforward as well as intelligent of the two.

As for the maternal instinct, we have not supposed it was so slight and weak a thing as to be endangered by the most formidable assaults of the "Teddy bear," even though assisted by all the other animals of Noah's ark. In fact the maternal instinct seems to have resisted for many generations all the little girlish, as well as little boyish, fondness for all the animals that went in two by two.

The maternal instinct appears indeed a pretty comprehensive and pretty reliable thing, about as comprehensive and reliable as any feeling of emotion in unstable humanity.

It is also very generally and generously distributed among women, being by no means confined to those who are the actual mothers of children.

In mothers it is not confined to their own children, but reaches to all other children as well. It is not even confined to children, since the love which women feel for men is largely maternal. Often women have the same brooding tenderness for animals, especially if they are sick or suffering, or even for plants and flowers.

Kill a little girl's tenderness by giving her a "Teddy bear" to fondle? Ridiculous! A little girl will mother a "Teddy bear" just as naturally as she will mother some rags or a bit of china in the shape of a doll, or a kitten, or a little green frog, or a really, truly, baby, or anything else animate or inanimate that happens to appeal to her. And her fondness and care for any of these develops, instead of destroying her maternal instinct.

-The Waukesha Freeman, Waukesha, Wisconsin, July 11, 1907, page 4.