ILLUSTRATIONS First Church Edifice, Third Street above Girard Avenue, 1823-1844 .Frontispiece Second Church Edifice, Third Street above Girard Avenue, 1845-1890 PAGE 43 Rev. William Metcalfe, Founder and Minister, 1817-1862.... 50 Interior of Third Street Church (second floor).. 53 Edmund Brooks, Vocal Leader, Deacon, Trustee. 94 Henry Metcalfe Taylor, Treasurer, Deacon, Trustee... 124 William Metcalfe Horrocks, Treasurer, Deacon, Trustee..... 125 William Cariss, Sr., Sabbath School Superintendent, Deacon, 135 Charles F. Koenig, Sabbath School Superintendent, Deacon, 137 George Metcalfe Wright, Great Grandson of the Founder (Secretary, Deacon, Trustee). . 185 HISTORY OF THE PHILADELPHIA BIBLE-CHRISTIAN CHURCH CHAPTER I THE CHURCH THE official Church books and records were of course used by the Committee in compiling this history of the first 100 years' existence of the Church in Philadelphia, which history comprises the principal facts therein. There is also, however, a great volume of unwritten history-incidents and occurrences not shown in the said records; the devoted efforts to promote and encourage the growth of Bible Christianity; the faithful labor of sincere men and women to teach and exemplify the humane principles advocated by the Church doctrines, persevered in year after year, oftentimes under most discouraging conditions, but with the sincere belief that kindness and consideration towards the humble and useful domestic animals was as much a part of the Great Creator's plan as was the divine announcement "Peace on Earth, good will toward men.” It is not claimed that these creatures possess a soul, or are even mentally endowed. We do not know; but that they manifest some attributes and characteristics of the human race, such as: affection, fear, anger, pleasure, pain, joy and sorrow is generally admitted, and that under careful training, most remarkable intelligence and cleverness is often manifested by them so that the practice of killing these animals and eating their flesh seems to be unnatural and barbarous. This prominent feature in the Church belief and discipline, certainly produced no objectionable or unpleasant characteristics in the members and followers of the faith; and although there was some opposition shown by a few other religious denominations in the early days, it did not long continue, and there is reason for the opinion that, as individuals and also as an organization, they gradually acquired the respect and esteem of the educated and enlightened portion of the community, and of the church; and its ministers frequently received most favorable comment in the public Press. The entertainments, fairs, concerts and other public functions were usually well and liberally patronized, and many also who were not members were attracted to the Church services in a most friendly and appreciative way. The Derbyshire family, engaged in the dyeing business, were regular attendants and liberal contributors for many years; the Needhams (hosiery manufacturers), Mr. Bromley (carpet manufacturer), the Gault family, the Wrightsons, the Gibsons, Mrs. Singerly and numerous other Kensington and Frankford residents are also remembered in this respect. At various periods the social sentiment of the organization was prominently featured; what were termed Monthly Tea Meetings were held in the Sunday school room for a number of years, at which topics of general and religious interest were discussed, appropriate musical selections rendered and a plain but enjoyable repast served. The Annual Meetings on Whitmonday were not restricted to business matters alone; the regular programme for that day commenced with a religious service in the church proper, followed shortly after by a dinner, served in the Sunday-school room, the ladies preparing these feasts, starting their labors early in the morning. For many years, there were on these festive occasions, three long tables extending the full length of the room which were beautifully decorated with flowers. Frequently more than one hundred guests were present. These feasts were served most bountifully with the products of the fields, garden and orchard, and of course without the sacrifice of any animal life, or the accompaniment of any intoxicating beverages. This feature of the Annual General Assembly usually took place about one o'clock P.M., continuing until about two or twothirty, after which the members would be occupied with the consideration of Church business and affairs for the rest of the afternoon. The reports of the Minister, of the Boards of Deacons and Trustees, the Sundayschool Superintendent and of regular and special Committees, giving a review of the events of the past year, followed by the annual election, consumed several hours. The day was essentially a very special and enjoyable anniversary, and all members and many friends of the Church made particular effort to be present. |