Why was First Church of Christ, Scientist built? Its story is one of faith overcoming obstacles. This church is part of a larger movement. It is a branch of The Mother Church in Boston.
First Church of Christ, Scientist follows a unique path. The Mother Church sets the standard. It is the only church using “The” in its title. Other churches are named “First Church” or “Second Church”. The city name follows. This order reflects when they were built.
The Christian Science movement began with Mary Baker Eddy. Her book Science and Health was published in 1875. It laid the foundation for Christian Science. Christian Scientists believe that disease and sin are errors of the mind. They have no real existence.
Let’s step back to Bay City. The members of First Church of Christ, Scientist faced challenges. They showed courage. They built their church through sacrifice.
In 1905, a small group met. They read the lesson-sermon. This was the start of something big. By April 12, 1906, the church was officially organized. It was a humble beginning. The meetings were held in a room in the Cranage block.
The church grew quickly. They needed a more convenient meeting place. So, they moved to a room facing Battery Park. A Reading Room opened there. This offered resources to the public. But this location was not ideal.
Another move happened in 1907. They relocated to the Ridotto building. Growth continued. Soon, every chair was filled. The first Christian Science lecture was given. Space became an issue again.
After a year, larger quarters were needed. The church moved to the Root building. It stayed there for four years. Students from Saginaw joined them. These students had attended services in Saginaw. A well-equipped Reading Room was maintained. A librarian was hired.
The idea of building a permanent church arose. Plans began. There was little money. The members took on debt. It amounted to about $24000. Despite the odds, they moved forward.
On November 11, 1911, the cornerstone was laid. The church was completed on December 27, 1913. The first service was held. The organ and furnishings were in place. On March 27, 1927, the debt was paid off. This paved the way for dedication. Christian Science churches cannot be dedicated until they are debt-free.
The Bay City Times described the church’s unique approach. No entertainment or fundraising bazaars were held. The church was built from free will offerings. The opening service was simple. There were no special ceremonies. No speakers were brought in to encourage giving.
The church is of fire-proof construction. It seats about 300 people. The main auditorium is reached through a spacious foyer. Lobbies and cloakrooms flank the foyer. Rooms for readers, the organist, and the soloist are at the rear.
A large dome stands out. It measures 110 feet in circumference. Colored glass filters light into the auditorium. Colored glass windows add beauty. Fluted pilasters look like stone pillars. They support a deep cornice. The architecture follows Grecian lines. Simplicity is key to its beauty.
Inscriptions adorn the walls. They read “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils”. Another inscription says “Divine Love always has met and always will meet every human need.” Finally, “God is Love”.
The First Church of Christ, Scientist stands as a testament. It embodies faith and perseverance. It shows what a community can achieve through dedication.