Here stands First Church of Christ, Scientist. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to resilience and faith. Let’s step back to a time of devastation and rebuilding.
In 1906, San Francisco was struck by a massive earthquake and fire. The city was in ruins. Among the losses was the temporary meeting place of First Church of Christ, Scientist. The congregation’s church-to-be was little more than a hole in the ground. Half the members left.
But from the ashes, hope emerged. Just five months after the smoke cleared, First Church of Christ, Scientist erected a temporary meeting place. It joined in the city-wide rush to rebuild.
A wave of generosity aided their efforts. Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science, had a special interest in San Francisco. She sent a check for one thousand dollars to the local relief fund. This spurred others to give.
The story of First Church of Christ, Scientist is intertwined with Sue Ella Bradshaw. She was one of Eddy’s students. Bradshaw brought Christian Science to the West Coast. Eddy directed her to move to San Francisco. She practiced and taught there.
Bradshaw’s home became a beacon of hope after the earthquake. It was untouched by the fire. Her home supplied water to neighbors. She gave words of comfort.
Within ten days of the earthquake, the congregation cleared their building lot. They used stored lumber to lay a floor. They erected a covered platform. On April 29, eight hundred people gathered for Sunday service. They sat on makeshift benches under the open sky.
As services continued, walls rose around them. A temporary auditorium took shape. In September, Christian Science Hall opened. It had seating for 1,800.
Despite losing half its members, the hall began to fill again. Plans for a larger home went forward. In 1909, First Church purchased a lot at Franklin and California Streets. It overlooked the rebuilt city.
Sue Ella Bradshaw led the building committee. In 1911, they laid the cornerstone. By 1913, the church was completed and dedicated debt-free. The spreading of Christian Science continued. It marched forward into the 20th century.
Today, the First Church of Christ, Scientist stands as a symbol of faith. It also shows resilience. It represents the enduring spirit of San Francisco. It rose from the ashes. It stands tall.