Marvelous isn’t it? This magnificent structure before you is the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Denver. It’s a Denver landmark a testament to faith and architectural grandeur.
Built in 1904 the First Church of Christ, Scientist is an exceptionally pure example of Greek Revival architecture. Designed by Ernest Phillip Varian of Varian and Sterner it echoes the design of ancient Greek temples. Notice the impressive portico those six massive stone columns with ionic capitals. The words “The Eternal God Is Thy Refuge” are etched into the frieze. The building itself is square 125 feet on each side. A segmented copper-clad dome crowns this masterpiece.
Step inside and you’ll find a sanctuary inspired by ancient Greek theaters. The floor slopes gently. The seating arranged in semicircles focuses on the central podium. This clever design ensures everyone has a clear view of the First Reader. Forget traditional pews here you’ll find individual stadium seats. When it opened this sanctuary boasted the largest unobstructed auditorium in Denver holding 1800 people. Amazingly deep steel beams support the roof eliminating the need for interior columns. The architect even specified quarter-sawn Russian oak for the wood trim superior in grain and density to American red oak.
The church’s construction reflects a larger movement. Classical architecture surged in popularity after the 1893 Columbian World’s Exposition in Chicago. It fueled the City Beautiful movement. The belief was that beauty inspires uplifting thoughts fostering civic pride and moral order. This resonated deeply with church leaders leading many Christian Science churches to adopt classical designs.
This isn’t the first First Church of Christ Scientist in this location. An earlier church stood three blocks north. That church built in 1891 proved too small for the rapidly growing congregation. At the turn of the century Christian Science was exploding in popularity. By 1899 the need for a larger space was evident. The building you see today was the largest Christian Science church west of the Mississippi when it was built.
The First Church of Christ, Scientist holds a unique distinction. It was the first large structure in Capitol Hill built of lava stone from the Kerr Quarry near Salida Colorado. The cornerstone however comes from New Hampshire the home state of Mary Baker Eddy the founder of Christian Science. The details are exquisite. The craftsmanship remarkable.
This building more than a century old still stands as a symbol of faith community and architectural excellence. It is a living testament to the enduring power of both spiritual belief and artistic vision. It continues to serve its community holding Sunday morning and Wednesday evening services. The Christian Science Reading Room operates on Tuesdays Wednesdays and Thursdays a testament to its continued vibrancy.