THE PEOPLES CHURCH AS A SOCIAL INSTITUTION THESIS FOR THE DEGREE OF M. A. Ruth C. Clark 1932 ‘(L’qgowma’dfb vlnm I: III u- m is l‘k1l"’3."‘fl _* Inglgqulgwgtg/ltl/Ilglit. 115 RETURNING MATERIALS: PIace in book drop to LIBRARJES remove this checkout from . n your record. FINES will be charged if book is returned after the date stamped below. - THE PEOPLES CHURCH AS A SOCIAL INSTITUTION by RUTH c'.’ ' CLARK A Thesis submitted to the Committee on Advanced Degrees in Partial Fulfillment for the Degree of Master of Arts. Department of Sociology Approved WKAZL airman of the Committee on Advanced Degrees lichigan State College 1932 THESIS \/ Table of Contents by Chapter Headings Chapter I . INTRODUCTION II. HISTORY OF PEOPLES CHURCH III. HEHBERSHIP OF THE CHURCH A. As revealed by annual Church statistics B. As compared with the pOpulation of East Lansing IV. FINANCES OF THE CHURCH ‘ A. Sources of income B. Distribution of subscribers in 1931 C. Major eXpenses D. The building fund V. ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE CHURCH A. Type of membership B. Attendance C. Special projects VI. LEADERSHIP OF PEOPLES CHURCH In?) INELIIENQEMQFIPEOPLESH omen- \ \_ A. As a factor in interdenominationalism B. As it effects the state and nation C. As revealed by editorials and publications concerning it D. As revealed by extent of donations to it VIII. CONCLUSION IX. BIBLIOGRAPHY - X. APPENDIX 94652- ACKNOWLEDGMENT This study could not have been made without the splendid c00peration given by PeOples Church staff members, officers and members. I owe special thanks to Dr. N. A. Mc Cune, who made suggestions and gave much valuable information, to Dr. M. L. Fox, Rev. John G. Biery, Rev. N. W. Kunkel, Miss Emma Sater, and Mrs. Grace Lyon, the Church secretary who gave much of her time and energy to answering questions, and furnishing and checking material. To Dr. and Mrs. E. A. Bessey, Mrs. Myra Bogue, Dean H. B. Dirks, Mrs. Mary Jennison, Mrs. J. J. Myers, Dean E. H. Ryder, Mr. Chase Newman, and Mr. Sidney Whittemore, I am indebted for information on the history of the Church, private clippings and historical data loaned me, and for aid in collecting membership and financial data. I am very grateful to the members of the Sociology Department, Dr. Eben Mumford, Dr. C. R. Hoffer, Dr. J. F. Thaden, Miss Margaret Cawood, and Mr. Austin Vander Slice for their valuable advice and encouragement in compiling the material. Ruth C. Clark - 1 - Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION The Church is one of the basic institutions in organized society. An_institutionjmay be defined as {gee of the mechanisms through which groups satisfy certain_ ._ Q _,.__.-....—.o -~-——.».._.— .......- funééggntaliinterestsiasscciatediwithmsexiandwtheicare_of children. occupatiepipplgziwhefilth.Medseefi1°ELM£9IAeieai mutual"aid,”and_gogggpmgptgfl There is a distinction F—-'—' between institutions and roup? which Cooley eXplains as (2 being one of point of view. ?A group", he says, "is .- 1prieszilywanmasaresetisnap:_2339935. likewaifamilzwsr congregation. An<§hstitution}'on the other hand, is more,~ than Just the group, or congregation. An institution is a distinct organic process whose vitality consists in an organic whole of transmitted ideas which has the power to enlist the activities of a group, but does not, for the most part, originate with the group, and can notBbe explained as a mere product of the person- alities." Incgaciver's definition that tingtitutions are forms of order establighedggithip_social life by song _i_ijlywwfl social will." are to be found the outstanding character- istics of an institution, namely, social recognition or establishment, and permanence. The Peoples Church of East Lansing, Michigan fulfils the requirements of the aforementioned characteristics of a fi—V -‘ iv Dawson and Gettys - "Introduction to Sociology". Page 38. I ) Cooley, C. H. - "Sociological Theory and Social Research". Page 318. ) Ibid. ) Maciver, R. M. - "Community, A Sociological Study",‘§age -2- social institution. gtis Lunifltflinhcommunityh 9369:91EQF19Q, having a, bishwéesreehotme 3111339132 9.3-.-16’2 -auifleientlyw flexible so limes,-Eead-iu§.§._}£§§}£,129....-9ha9fl98 ._.°9¥¥.<1i§i9§§. It may be considered " a formally organized instrument of group behavior", (5)having as its aim the satisfying of certain fundamental interests associated with religion. When the term "social" is mentioned, it is not to be interpreted by the narrow meaning generally attributed to it by common usage, but implies interstimulation, and response. The concept of "socialization" takes into consider- ation.more than Just Church suppers, parties, and entertain- ments. The society editor of a newspaper thinks only of special affairs such as entertainments which are of interest to only a selected group of people. From a sociologist's view-point, however, "social activities" refer to all kinds of human contacts. "The end of aél human institutions is socialization", says Hawthorn, and to illustrate his point, he gives the following diagram: Socializing Agencies .4' “ 'Bibrary ' " Unsocialized Church School individuals --- 22mg ---become---socialized individuals u contacting with Festival Book "Social" problems which the Church is endeavoring to help solve are such problems as war, the problem of labor, the problem of family disintegration, the problem of the (S) Dawson and Gettys - op. cit. Page 46. (6) Hawthorn, H. B. - "The Sociology of Rural Life". Page 20. - 3 - delinquent child, and the problem of poverty. "The Christian Life as conceived of today is not an ascetic, cloistered life withdrawn from the world of man and problems; it is a life full or the eXperience which comes with the struggle to solve social problems and to diversify human associations. It is life, not only progress- ing with its task of socialization, but exnressing itself through a wide range of group contacts." (7) Christ was the "Master Sociologist"o In the words of Hawthorn: Christ "defined life in sociological terms by contrasting human contacts with the monastic life, humanism with clanism, democracy with caste spirit, social service to the malad- Justed and crippled with profession of holiness, love of neighbor and mutual aid with elaborate ritual, and parable taken from nature with scriptural tradition. Society, through the parable of the buried talent, was admonished to dedicate itself to the sociological task of utilizing potential talent." (8) From a sociological standpoint, religion may be tested by the extent to which it promotes tolerance, humanism, social service, and eXpression of human life. Granted that Peoples Church is a social institution, what, then, is the best method of approach in studying it? Several methods suggest themselves. The method of statistics is an exact one, but as a measurement of social phenomena which can be reduced to quantitative units, it has certain limitations. Social phenomena, dealing, as they do, with fi—v (7) Hawthorn, H. B. - 0p. cit. Page 48 (8) Hawthorn, H. B. - 0p. cit. Page 18 human beings, are subject to both environmental and hereditary influences; hence they are not completely measured when they are dealt with in a quantitative manner. By such an approach, the interpretation of qualitative and individual factors is entirely ignored. The survey method is perhaps the oldest procedure for obtaining sociological data. The immediate purpose of this is a practical one, namely, to give specific recommend- ations for social enterprises. This, however, is not the aim of this thesis, and hence the survey method is not used. r_Ih,_9___J;L1_li_tg}jv_}3!f¥g§,_.__Q1';.H_.S.€252..1..«15!.§.I._,.§:I:I.M3.._Beligigus Research has made some notable Church surveys which have involved the entire country in their scape. (9) In the purely historical method of studying an insti- tution, the significant, outstanding features of the past are investigated. The special limitation of this method is that it does not explain all the reasons for conditions as they are in the present. Moreover, history does not eXplain the existence, one social importance (or mode of living) of "insignificant", unimposing factors in society, or the existence of the mass of nameless individuals which effects the entire panorama of society. This recording of unique events, which history gives, however, has produced the subject matter and background for describing many social situations. For certain purposes, it is, therefore, a valuable method. By the case study method, the processes and minute (9) Among these studies may be mentioned, "The U.S. Looks at its Churches", by C. L. Fry; "1000 City Churches" by H. P. Douglass, and "United Churches", by E. R. Hooker. - 5 - relationships of an institution are investigated, but over a limited time, generally the present. The most distinct, typical. and manageable elements of the institution are subjected to intensive study, with the aim of discovering the special character and function of the institution " to find out how it appeals to human nature and is enabled to enlist a share of human vitality in its service." 10 Cooley describes this method of studying the intimate and distinctive character of an institution as being "like the theme of a symphony, continually recurring, and of which the whole organism of the music is a various unfolding." (11) Like the pattern which the theme of a symphony produces, the institution has a distinctive pattern which is focused for special study. We try to discover just how the institu- tion develOps and works under various conditions, how it acts and reacts, and is modified, and finally how its character may be changed by the contributing factors of its community environment. Interactions between tradition and the persons who are carrying on the institution, as its leaders, discipline, methods of training its members, and all its conscious processes for planning and prepaganda must be minutely investigated. Notable among the studies made by this method are Dr. E. de S. Brunner's book, "Churches of Distinction in Town and Country", and Douglass' work on "Some Significant City Churches." The life history method is that method which combines the historical and the case study methods. It includes both (10) Cooley, C. H. - op. cit. Page 319 (11) Ibid. Page 320. phases, presenting not only a cross section picture of the present time, but also the significant historical happenings, and attempts to explain and interpret them. It is this method which will be the major method of this study. Statistics will be used in their simplest forms to help present significant truths that can not be shown in any other way. Masses of numerical facts are objective and measureable, and as such, they are of great value in inter- preting social phenomena. Religion is an emotional as well as an intellectual experience. In the past, it was based on theological and metaphysical assumptions which did not have a scientific basis. Since 1860, and especially since 1900, there has been deveIOped a greater use of scientific methods in the ex- planation of religious matters. In this development, sociology and social research have an important place, because sociology attempts to describe and interpret social life with the same precision that has characterized other sciences, such as those which deal with plants and animals. Besides the Institute of Social and Religious Research, the Interchurch World Movement, and the Federal Census have done much to give us factual information about the statistical, quantitative aspects of Churches in general. We know, for instance, that in 1926, the number of denominations in the United States was 212. The White House Conference of 1930. called by President Hoover, presents significant facts like (12) these, about American Churches: (12) "White House Conference". Pages 249-250. - 7 - 1. In 1930, there were 232,154 churches of 214 denominations. 2. Fifty-five per cent, or 44,380,000 members are over 13 years of age. . Among the adult membership, there are 5 women to every 4 men. $1,000,000,000 are spent by Churches in one year. Nearly £4,000,000,000 are invested in Church prOperty. There are 9 Churches for every 10 public schools. Membership growth of Churches has been almost parallel to population growth during the last two decades. (13) . There are certain definite tendencies in the deveIOp- ment of the Church today, such as: a. The wholesome develOpment of religious education programs for children and youth. b. The tendency for the Church to relate itself to its young people, not only in matters of worship, but in various ways, aiding adjustment to actual everyday experience. c. The growing tendency of Churches toward community effort. d. A significant tendency on the part of the Church to extend its activities to the week day, with such programs as the daily vacation schools, the week day Church schools, as well as youth activi- ties under Church auspices. e. Evidence of a restless hunger for deeper spiritual values in this materialistic, pleasure-mad age."(HJ OJ NOAH-Ii DI Facts like these, and the constant demand for more detailed studies of individual. primary-group Churches have served as incentives to secure such information about the Peoples Church. It will be observed as this study deveIOps, that the tendencies quoted above are present in Peoples Church to a remarkable degree. The Church is at the present time a definite pattern in society, the threads of which are so inter-related that they can not be clearly distinguished. Yet in combination, they comprise a clear-cut picture which is called a Community Church. Zumbrunnen defines a community Church as "one which is the only Church in a community, being composed of or __ ‘— (13) 17. 6 per cent and 17. 2 per cent in 1920 for Church membership and pepulation growth. 18.9 per cent and 19.0 per cent in 1930 for Church membership and papulation growth. (14) Ibid -8- seeking to admit the representatives of all the various denominations in the community into its membership; which seeks to minister to the Whole life of the community and to the whole life of all the(pe3ple in it, and to do so econom- 15 ically and efficiently." The activities of a community Church, he says, may be classified in the following divisions: Devotional Educational Recreational Social a. Amusements b. Community welfare 0. Social Service (16) d. Supporting movements for social betterment #UN-fi so .0 East Lansing has but one Church. "The sentiment of the Church and the community has always been that there should (17) enough to meet the needs of the community." When it was be but one Church, and its program should be comprehensive \\ organized as a Congregational Church, in 1907, its founders acted on the theory that "one strong Church in a community is sufficient for the religious needs of a town the size of East Lansing, and is better than a number of half-supported competing Churches." (18) Interdenominationalism is a movement which has long been an ideal among some of the more liberal-minded Christian workers, but until comparatively recent times, it has not been realized as an actuality. There were in 1923 when PeOples Church became an Interdenominational Church about Zumbrunnen, A. C. - "The Community Church". Page 78. Ibid Page 81 From a report to annual meeting. Jan. 1922 by 0. W. Behrens, student pastor of Peoples Church, 1919-1922. From the "Dedication Services" bulletin. Published 1926. “dd d V vvv CD NOU‘I - 9 - (19) 137 so-called "undenominational Churches". There are, however, only four other community Churches in college towns, namely, at Davis, California; Durham, New Hampshire; Vassar College at Kiepsie, N.Y.; and Hamilton College at Geneva New York. No studies about any of these Churches are known. PeOples Church is therefore among the first Churches to have approximated realization of this ideal of interdenominationalism. Among the questions that this thesis attempts to answer are such questions as these: 1. When and why was Peoples Church first started? 2. To what extent has the aim of its founders been realized? 3. How quickly has Peoples Church responded to the changing needs of the times? 4. What is the nature of the services that Peoples Church extends to the community, the student body. the state, and to the country at large? 5. How does PeOples Church compare in the success of its achievements with the average urban Church in Michigan and in the United States? In short, what are the factors which have contributed to making PeOples Church the institution that it is now, and Ito what extent does it exert its influence on society? The view-point is a sociological one rather than a religious one. The Objective is to determine the nature and volume of social contacts, and how these contacts stimulate the people. In general, the aim of this thesis is to describe this. "pattern" in society. called the Peoples Church, its social processes and functions. From the standpoint of social (19) Hooker, E. R. - "United Churches". Page 27 -10- theory, it may be possible to discover how social activities actually occur; whether they verify our existing social theories; and whether they reveal any new uniformities in social behavior. The sources of information have been varied. The annual reports and records of Church letters were obtained from the clerk's office. Membership records were secured from the clerk and the Church secretary. Financial records were kept at the treasurer's office and in the Church office. Historical pamphlets, clippings, from magazines and newspapers, and old Church bulletins were loaned by various staff members or other members of the Church. Persons who were present at the founding of the Sunday School and Church very willingly c00perated in giving information which especially contributed to the history of the Church. All the departments of Michigan State College were interviewed to ascertain the number of persons who live in East Lansing by virtue of the fact that the head of the family is directly connected with the college. Census material was obtained from the college library and from the sociology department. The books and publications used in connection with this study are listed in the bibliography. The Character of the Parish According to the 1930 Census, the city of East Lansing has a papulation of 4,389. Of this number, it was found by actual count that 1,639 persons, or 35 per cent of the total pepulation live in East Lansing because the head of the family is employed by Michigan State College. There are no - 11 - major industrial enterprises in East Lansing. As a result, it may be assumed that the other 65 per cent of East Lansing's pepulation is here chiefly because of the presence of the college. The doctors, dentists, merchants, and other business men get most their trade from employees and students of this institution. Even the persons who work in Lansing, but live in East Lansing, do so because this is a "desirable" place to live. The special Opportunities caused by the intellectual and cultural level of a colege community, coupled with the desire of certain families who move here especially to educate their children are important factors in prompting others to live in the community. Michigan State College was organized as a "Land Grant" college, being formally dedicated in 1857. Itvwas the first state institution in the United States to offer instruction in scientific and practical agriculture. Since then, however, courses have been opened to five other chief divisions: Engineering, Home Economics, Veterinary Medicine(including Biology), Applied Science (including Physical Education), and Liberal Arts (including Business Administration, Public School Music, and Hotel Training). In addition, there are agencies for research and investigation and extension work outside the college. Its total enrollment on March 1st, 1931 was 4,367. The city of East Lansing is located three and one-half miles east of Lansing, the capital of Michigan, in Ingham County. It is connected with Lansing by two paved roads and a street car system. Although incorporated as a separate -12- city, yet it has a number of public utility systems in common with Lansing. It has the same telephone, electricity, and gas systems, but has its own water system. The population grouping of East Lansing by sex, nativity, and race are as follows: By Sex Tgtal 4389 100 per cent Males 2083 47.5 Females 2306 52.5 By Rgce and Nativity Negroes 1 0 Native white 4114 93.7 Foreign-born white 274 6.3 W Native parents 3314 80.5 Foreign and mixed parents 800 19.5 By age groupings, the population is divided as follows: All_Ageg 4382 100 per ceng Under 5 369 8.4 5 - 14 759 17.3 15 - 24 717 16.3 25 - 34 837 19.1 35 — 44 752 17.2 65 - 187 4.2 Unknown 4 0 Sixty-five per cent of the population is over 21 years of age. There are 90 males to every 100 females. Except for one person, the entire population of East Lansing is of the Caucasian race. (20) Such, in brief, is the character of the community which Peoples Church seeks to serve. In conclusion, it may be said that Peoples Church (20) These figures are exclusive of college students who are ntt residents of East Lansing. - 13 - is a social institution by virtue of its program and form of organization. The life-study method is an important method of approach in studying social phenomena of this type, and hence will be the major method used in this study. The approach, therefore, is from a sociological standpoint rather than from a religious one. - 14 - Chapter II HISTORY In order to get an adequate understanding of the historical deveIOpment of Peoples Church, it is necessary to present a clear conception of the religious activities of the college and the community, prior to the establish- ment of the church. Religious exercises were held in the college from its opening in 1857o The students attended "chapel" in what was called "Old College Hall". In 1871, the "College Christian Union", a forum for religious discussions was formed, which resulted in the Y.M.C.A. in 1881. "The main object of the Y)M.C.A.", said Mr. Beal in his history of Michigan Agricultural College, "is to promote Christian fellowship. It is by no means an exclusive organization, but aims to reach and aid every student in every way within its power. It is an organization of students for students. The association has high aims and ideals, and is worthy of the support of every man in college." (1) In 1895 an organization exclusively for faculty women was started, called at first the "Order of King's Daughters", and then the "Try and Trust Circle." In 1896, a Y.W.C.A. branch for college women was organized on the campus, holding its meetings in the women's dormitory. There were no special religious services for the townspeople, however. They had to go either to Lansing or (1) Beal, W. J. - "History of M. A. C. " Page 213 - 15 - attend the college chapel, which was too small to accommodate both students and townspeople. The only means of transporta- tion to Lansing was by a street-car that ran once every thirty minutes. The result was that the people very seldom went to Church. Moreover, there was no organization or center for social activities that made the residents of East Lansing "community minded". In 1902, the community, exclusive of the college, had a population of about 350. Half of this number consisted of the college faculty and their families, and the other half consisted of people who were not connected directly with the college who for the most part were not especially interested in it. There existed between these two divisions, a quite sharp social distinction. The "faculty people" felt slightly superior to the more common, laboring classes who lived in their own little section on the west side of the town. (2) There was a slightly different intonation of the voice when reference was made to a person living in "Collegeville". "Oh yes, he lives in Collegeville!" was said as a term of contempt. The children were growing up with no religious train- ing. It is true that a Mrs. Charles Weel had started a small Sunday School for faculty children, which she held in her own home. This Sunday School did not last long, and the children of the non-faculty people never had any Opportunit- ies for religious instruction. In fact, Miss Edith Dresser, (2) Between what is now Delta Street and Harrison Road. -16... the young teacher of East Lansing elementary school children, had asserted that seventy-five per cent of them did not know even the simplest prayers. She started Bible reading and prayers at the beginning of each school day, till one day a visitor objected on the grounds that "this is a school, and not a Sunday School", and threatened to have her lose her position if she did not stop her religious services. As a result, Miss Dresser, Mrs. Jennison, Mr. Newman, and Mr. Longear met at Mrs. Jennison's home, and talked about plans for establishing a Sunday School for the children. They called on the Reverend William Ewing, who was the State Congregational organizer of Sunday Schools, and whose headquarters was in Lansing, to help them get established. With his help, the first Sunday School was organized on January 5. 1902 in the little red school house which was located where the present Junior High School now stands. It was made an interdenominational Sunday School, because of the diverse views of the members that composed it, and was called simply the "East Lansing Sunday School". Quarter- lies, hymnals, and other equipment were obtained from the various denominations according to their economy and suit- ability to the needs of the school. The persons most influ- ential in its start, did not even know what denominations they all belonged to, and it did not occur to them to even ask. (3)The entire purpose of its founding was for service to the community religiously and socially. Its first super- intendent was the present postmaster, B. A. Faunce; Miss (3) Later the six members of the staff (Viz: Orvil Ayres, Dresser, Faunce, Jennison, Longear and Newman) found that no two of them belonged to the same denomination. - 17 - Dresser was the first secretary-treasurer, and Prof. Chase Newman the first treasurer. The Sunday School started with an enrollment of 30 to 35 members, composing four classes, one for the children 4 - 8 years of age, one of boys 8 - 16, one of girls 8 ~ 16 years of age, and one Bible class for adult members. A year later the membership had reached 74. That first year, 50 meetings were held, the average attend- ance per Sunday being 40, and the average collection 3.78 a Sunday. By 1907, the attendance had grown so much (about 150 members) that the Sunday School had to move to the college chapel for its services. By this time a class for students had also been organized. Organization of the Church It was in this little Sunday School that the members felt a greater need for a church. The immediate purpose of its organization was to provide a more adequate social center for the community, rather than the culmination of a dream of interdenominationalism. Prof. Blaisdell, Prof. Bogue, Prof. Newman and their wives were perhaps the chief leaders in its actual accomplishment. When Professor Bogue died in 1907, the Sunday School raised a memorial fund to him, amounting to $16.73 which was given as the first donation toward the erection of a Church building. In the same year, Prof. Blaisdell prOposed that such a Church building be erected in East Lansing, and the first meetings to discuss the organization were held in the school house and in the homes of private members. On Dec. 7, I907. "The Peoples Church (Congregational) was formally organized - 18 - in the college armory, with 83 charter members, representing 11 denominations. At this time there were about 600 people ” in East Lansing, with 800 students. The reason for attaching "Congregational" in parenthesis was because that denomination was the one of broadest tenets, and most closely allied to a project like the PeOples Church, and because some denomination had to be adopted for practical, economic reasons. Moreover, the problem of getting ministers was simplified by the Peoples Church allying itself with a state-wide organization. The purpose of its founding was not an abstract ideal, but a practical idea of service to two bodies of people, the students and the community. One of its supporters, however, a Baptist minister once said of the Peoples Church, "This is the way it will be in Heaven", having in mind, presumably the ideal of a united body of Christians. The actual visiting of homes to get the people to come to the new church was done by private members, under the leadership of Mrs. Bogue. The chief argument used was the need for a greater unity among the East Lansing citizens. They were so spread out, and were so diversified that there had been no common interest to bring them together. The fact that it was college faculty members who made the first approach, and that the Church offered a place where all could meet on an equal basis for social activities as well as religious reasons caused a number of pepple to attend Peoples Church occasionally while retaining their member- ships in a Lansing Church. At the organization services on Dec. 8, 1907, there were six ministers from Lansing and Olivet College, repre- -19- senting the Congregational, Baptist and Presbyterian Church. For the first few months of its existence, the pulpit 'was filled by various local men and by members of the Faculty of Olivet College. The first regular pastor was the Reverend Fred. W. Corbett, a Methodist, who came July 1, 1908, and continued till Dec. 1, 1909. During this period two important organizations were started, the Woman's Society, meeting for the first time at the A. C. Anderson home, and the first student Bible classes, started by Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Wood. Mr. Wood was teacher of the young women, and Mrs. Wood of the young men. Soon after the organization in the little school house, they moved into the old college chapel, and the classes grew in interest and membership, the young men calling themselves the Students' Citizenship League, and the young women the League of the Silver Cross. The first church building was the schoolroom, the following year the college chapel was used until it became too small, and the year after that a tent was rented for the meetings. Consequently, steps were taken to build a permanent church building. Bulletins entitled "A City Without a Church" were circulated among the students, alumni, and persons interested in the project. In these pamphlets, special stress was made on "the situation", "the vision", the "covenant of membership", an explanation of the organization of the church and a brief account of its history, "the burden" and "the appeal." At the time of its circulation, late in 1909, the papulation of East Lansing was about 750, and of the college 1350, making a total of 2100. "The city -20.. owns its own water works, has a modern system of sewers and drains, is supplied with gas and electricity, and has miles of concrete sidewalks;" the bulletin asserted, "but it is a city without a Church". As to "the vision", it said, "In September, 1907, a few citizens of East Lansing, feeling their own need, and considering themselves responsible for the spiritual welfare of these students, met and organized a Church society. Having a vision of one city where there should be no denominational bickerings, where the Church should be in truth the center of the inspirational and social activities of the entire community, they adOpted the simplest possible articles of faith and signed the following: Covenant of Membership "I believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and with the help of God I will strive day by day to lead the life of purity, of unselfishness and of service which He exemplified to the world". For the "vision" of a Church which should be in reality the social and civic as well as the religious center of the city, a place from which might radiate all sorts of inspirat- ional activities, the community, led by Prof. Blaisdell, Prof. Newman, Prof. Ryder, and others, planned a church building which would accommodate these ideas. Besides an auditorium they were to have "numerous social rooms and in the basement a large general room, retiring rooms, a kitchen and pantry etc.", the complete building and furnishings to (4) cost about $15,000. The Church had 3600 in the bank (4) This figure is more accurately stated elsewhere as $17,079.45, ' -21- with pledges from the people of $3600. The building was to be kept cpen seven days in the week for neighborhood and college purposes, every effort being made "not only to unite the people of the town, but also to bring the students more closely in touch with positive religious and social activity". An appeal for 38000 was made to the friends of the Church outside of East Lansing. Later on a second edition of this pamphlet was sent out. Finally enough money was raised so that construction of the building was begun, two blocks east of the present Church. (5) Before its dedication, Robert Goldsmith, a brilliant young Presbyterian minister became pastor of the Church on Dec. 1, 1909. The corner stone of the Church was laid Oct. 23, 1910. at which three-minute talks were given by nine members on some phase of the new Church as: The New Church and Its Sunday School The New Church and the Community The Church of Christ Today The New Church and the College About 150 persons were present at the laying of the corner stone, "an unusually large crowd". On Oct. 24, 1911, Peoples Church was formally dedicat— ed, the pastor, Mr. Goldsmith preaching the sermon, the former pastor, Mr. Corbett assisting in the exercises. The chapel held 275 persons, but folding chairs had to be placed in the aisles at the front, and in the rear, and all of them were occupied. The college choir and the "Bemis (5) About where the "Lyon*s”Cafe" now stands. yaw”? - Z I - 22 - Violin Quartette" furnished the music. A list of the activities of the first week indicate to some extent to what degree the Church was integrating its program with the community. Sunday Morning 10:30, Church service. Sermon: "The Method of Science in the Realm of Religion" Sunday Noon --- Sunday School Sunday Evening. 7:30, Church service. Sermon: "A Clearing House for Idealism" Monday Evening, 7:30, Church Reception Remarks by Pres. Snyder: "The Pepples Church and M. A. C. " Remarks by Mayor Gunson, "The Peoples Church and East Lansing" Wednesday Afternoon, 2:30, Women's Society First meeting in community parlors Wednesday Evening, 7:30 Devotional Service Elders in charge A Meeting for Thanksgiving and Rejoicing After the program, Testimonials by Everybody Friday Evening, 6:30 Community supper (Woman's Society) Topics on various phases of the Church by 9 persons. Saturday 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. Children's Indoor Picnic Mr. Newman in charge "There will be stereoptican views, plenty of games, probably an auto ride and surely something to eat. This is for all the children in the community". - 23 - Saturday Evening, 7:30 Class Reception Mr. a Mrs. Wood in charge "A Welcome Evening" for the members of the Citizenship League and their friends. Something doing every minute". At the community supper, 300 were present, "twice as many present as were expected? Dr. Williamson of the Mayflower Congregational Church in Lansing, complimented "those who had labored to make this Church possible", and stated that the work at this place would be watched with a great deal of interest ."The Community Church is what we need", he said. The Congregational Church Building Society assisted in the financing. At the end of the year, Reverend Corbett made the statement at annual meeting that five times as many people were attending Church in East Lansing or Lansing as before the organization of the Church. He considered this a result of Peoples Church. On Feb. 1, 1912, Reverend William Sidney Steensma, a Congregationalist, came as pastor, and remained until Feb. 1, 1916. Through his suggestion, the practice of keeping the Church cpen every day was inaugurated. Another instance of the c00peration of the different classes toward accomplishing their purpose of making the community better is the activities of the Men's Class of Applied Christianity. Besides their regular organization, they had three committe- es, one on civic improvement, one on juvenile entertainment, and the third on public morality. - 24 - All these issues were studied thoroughly and systematically "with the idea in view of solving some of the great problems presented to the American people by these three subjects". (6) In a newspaper published in 1912 is an account of this class sending five boys to Grand Rapids with the Reverend Steensma to attend the leadership conference there for the purpose of bettering conditions among the small boys of the community. This "Leaders Club" for boys was organized by MP- Steensma. The work with and for the students was conspicuous. Besides four classes of students meeting for purely religious reasons, on Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays under the lead- ership of Mr. & Mrs. C. C. Wood, there was a Students' Citizenship League for men students, meeting on Friday nights for purely social and literary causes. No mention is made of a social group for women students. During this period a student employment bureau was established and conducted by Reverend Steensma. Emphasis was constantly made that the building was for community use, and that persons desiring to use the Church anytime during the day could do so. The Men's Social Room was for reading, writing, conversation etc. In the parlors could be found Opportunity for meeting friends and for Bible study, meditation, and prayer. All that a person had to do to reserve any parts of the Church for meetings, luncheons, receptions, and other purposes was to arrange (6) Henceforth a number of quotations will be made with no footnotes as to reference. They are taken from isolated newspaper clippings and bulletins collected by Mrs. Lyon, Mr. Mc Guns, and Mr. Newman. - 25 - with Mr. Steensma. A special request was made to leave informatiOn at the office concerning the sick and new residents. From this period on, the history of the Church is one of aonstant growth and expansion of duties. On November 19, 1916, the Reverend James Tivyson Jones, D.D. also a Congre- gationalist, came as pastor. The Church began to be too small to hold the congregation, although the auditorium's seating capacity was about 300, and at its building it had been considered good for several years. Plans were drawn to rebuild the church. On September 30, 1917, the present pastor of the Church, the Reverend N. A. Mc Cune preached his first sermon at the Peoples Church. He was an M. A. C. g;aduate, and had been an outstanding student of his class. He also studied at Boston University, where he graduated and got his M.A. Degree in the School of Theology. Moreover he had studied one term, in 1914, at King's College, London, England. The committee for selection, the chairman of which was Dean Ryder, found him at Benton Harbor, Michigan, a young Methodist minister, with good experience, and inter- ested in the Peoples Church project. When he started preach- ing, the Church auditorium became so crowded that people eat on the steps and on the first floor, beneath the aud- itorium, resolving to come earlier the next time. But until the Church could be rebuilt, the people had to be accommo- dated someway, so they moved to an empty store building which could hold 600. It was called "The Mc Cune Garage". (7) Class of 1901. -26- Then came the war. On May 1, of 1918, community gardening adventures began. The men of the Church rented 18 acres of land and planted it to pop corn, tomatoes, potatoes etc. "Working in the gardens the men got acquainted as never before. Arguments between militant Democrats and Black Republicans speeded up the hoeing and drove away ennui. Wives of the learned professors proved A number one corn huskers. The gardens netted $1,131.29 of which 3800 was invested in liberty bonds. This was the beginning of the funds for a new Church building." (8) Several women opened the Church as a hostess house for use of the S.A.T.C. boys who were in training at the college. On Oct. 1, 1918, Mrs. Margaret Holt came as matron of the hostess house and continued till July 15, 1922. During the autumn of 1918} the influenza epidemic broke out, and Mrs. Holt kept the Church open day and night," as a refuge for parents and relatives hurrying to the bedsides of dying (9) soldiers". The building was kept Open day and night for months. The success of the Open Church has been contributed more to her "wise and faithful ministry" and "her kind and happy personality and spirit of helpfulness" than to any other cause. The war caused a new interest, or "renaissance" in religion. Efficiency and economy of work was the predominant idea in the minds of religious workers as well as in indust- ry and every other phase of society. It was perhaps due to this condition more than to any other cause that interdenom- (8) "Dedication Booklet". Page 14. (9) Ibid. -27- inationalism began from now on to be a serious, practical solution of many problems. To meet the growing needs of the growing college and community, greater coordination among the denominations was necessary. A new Church plant, better facilities for religious and social activities, and more specific attention to students seemed imperative. As a result on Feb. 9, 1919, the secretaries of the boards of education_ for four denominations met at East Lansing‘gp suggest a cOOperative. student work at the Church. A second meeting of these denominations, the Baptists, Congregation- alists, Methodists and Presbyterians, was held at the Downey Hotel in Lansing. Through the efforts of Dr. R. C. Hughes, of the Presbyterian Board, the special leader of this projectn the four denominations came to an agreement whereby each of them was to pay the salary of a man who could give his entire time to religious work among the students. As a result, on April 1, 1919, the Reverend O.W. Behrens was appointed as the first student pastor. By this action, the difficult- ies encountered in other college communities, of limited fields, overlapping of wOrk, and narrowing of purpose for both students and student pastors was definitely eliminated. In 1920, the negotiations on the Interdenominational Agreement began, and continued for three years. The result of this agreement will be discussed later. Meanwhile in May of 1920, a campaign for money for erecting a new Church was carried on by a committee of which Professor A. J. Clark was chairman. The result of the (10) Special causes for the ushering in of this era were suggested by Dean Ryder. -23.. campaign was $25,000. Persons residing in one hundred and eight Michigan cities, and 17 states besides Michigan I contributed to the building fund. This indicated the extent to which Pepples Church influence had reached. Several organizations had their origin at this period. (1‘) On Oct. 19, 1920, the "Older Boys Club" was organized by Professor Newman for local boys of high school and college age. On Jan. 5, 1921, the Women's Missionary Society was organized with Mrs. Edwin Morrison as president. This was the successor of the "King's Daughters" which had been a strong society in East Lansing since its origin in 1895- On July 1, 1921, the prOperty of Mrs. Eva Felton was purchased for a building site, costing 3'8,000.00 K On Oct. 7, 1921, the Friendly Bible Class was organ- ized with W. A. Robinson as teacher and J. H. Pratt as president. On Oct. 1. 1922, the position of Director of Student Religious work and Y4M.C.A. Secretary was accepted by Professor Bennett Weaver, of the English department of the college. On Oct. 1, 1922, the work of the college Y.M.C.A. and the Y.W.C.A. was affiliated with the Church program. Miss Helen Hudson came as first Y.W.C.A. Secretary and Director of Women Students Work. On Sept. 1, 1922, Mrs. Delora Mc Elroy came as matron, succeeding Mrs. Holt who resigned July 15. At the same time “‘- ___— (11) Taken mostly from "The Dedication Booklet". Pages 14,15. - 29 - the Reverend John G. Biery began his work as Employment Secretary at the college YtM.C.A., this office having become affiliated with the Church program. On Oct. 9, 1922, the first service was held in the temporary auditorium, the congregation filling every seat and with many standing. On Nov. 6, 1922, the Sunday morning nursery for taking care of children whose parents attended the Church service was opened with Miss Margaret Sawyer in charge. In January, 1923, the building fund committee was formed, consisting of ten members with D. A. Seeley as chairman. From March 23 to 30, a "whirlwind campaign" was conducted in East Lansing for the building fund, which resulted in $58,000 in pledges. To keep up the interest of the peOple, a sheet was published daily giving the results of each day‘s work. Following this campaign, the two field secretaries, working under the direction of the above committee raised $165,000 in pledges in three years, outside of East Lansing. On March 31, 1923, the first signatures were affixed to the Interdenominational Agreement, which had finally been agreed to by all parties, after three years of negot- iations. According to this agreement, four great denominations were bound tOgether "for the common purpose of ministering to the religious needs of the student body of Michigan State Colle e and the resident population of East Lansing, 12 Michigan". (12) "Dedication Services". Page 9. - 3o - They drew up a constitution to which 42 names were signed, and which took three years to complete. At first this document was begun in the office of Grant M. Hudson, at that time the General Director of the Michigan Baptist Convention, and Congressman of the sixth district of Michigan from 1923 to 1931. When the committee grew in size so it could not be held in Mr. Hudson's office, the meetings were continued in the Church. These were the parties to the agreement: 1. 5. The Baptists, represented by the Michigan Baptist Convention, and the Board of Education of the Northern Baptist Convention (New York). The Congregationalists, represented by the Michigan Congregational Conference, the Congregational Church Building Society (New York), and the Congregational Education Society (Boston). The Methodists, represented by the Michigan Annual Conference of the Methodist EpiscOpal Church, and the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal Church (New York) - The Presbyterians, represented by the Synod of Michigan of the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., and the General Board of Education of the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., (New York)- The Peoples Church, represented by the trustees. When the document was completed it was submitted to four attorneys, representing the four denominations who passed on its legal aspects. - 31 - There are 21 articles to the constitution, which pertain to the following subjects: 1, The Parties in the Agreement (as named above). 2. The Denominational Status (The "PeOples Church" (Congregational) was to with- draw its membership from the Association of Congregat« ional Churches and Ministers, and become incorporated as an Interdenominational Evangelical Christian Church, under the name of the "PeOples Church of East Lansing, Michigan".) 3. Purpose (to minister to the religious needs of the student body of the Michigan Agricultural College. and the resident population of East Lansing, Michigan). 4. The Covenant of the Church (see Appendix). 5. The Denominational Affiliation. (Each denomination might record the name of the Church on their year books. The PeOples Church might elect a delegate to represent it at all the regular local and state meetings of each denomination). 6. The Church Building. . (Each denomination was to contribute $25,000 toward the construction of a prOposed church building, the Peoples Church contributing, too). 7. The Annual Budget. (An annual budget must be maintained for student work, including the special activities among the students). 8. Special Student Work. (For the supervision of religious work among the students, a Board of Control consisting of 12 persons from the 4 denominations and the Peoples Church were to be appointed. In 1930, this section was ammended to include 15 persons instead of 12). 9. Cooperation with Other Denominations: (All other Evangelical Christian denominations who desire to share in this work may be taken in on the same basis as the four denominations now allied). 10. Policy of the Church. (Arne government of the Church is vested in its members who are in good standing and of legal age. It is subject to control of no other ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes, accepts and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and COOperation with the denominations who are or may hereafter be par- takers thereto".) 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 190 20. 21. - 32 - Doctrine ("The Church accepts the Scriptures as its authority in matters of faith and of living"). Terms of Membership Method of Choosing Officers Sunday School Status Meetings of the Church Ordinances (Baptismand Lord's Supper) Benevolences (To be divided equally each year among the cooperating denominations). Discipline (Guided)by law of Christ as given in Matthew, XVIII, 15 - 17 . Auxiliaries ("All organizations formed for its members and using the facilities of the Church prOper are regarded as integral and auxilliary parts of itself. Of all such auxilliaries, the Pastor shall have general oversight, and from each the Church will eXpect a report at its annual meeting".) Methods of Ammending the Constitution Methods of Suspending the Rules Names of Witnesses (31) Ammendment (passed Jan. 14, 1930). (There shall be 15 persons on the Board of Control consisting of the following: 1 member from the Board of Education of each of the four denominations ' 4 1 state representative from each of the four denominations 4 4 members of the Peoples Church 4 1 representative of the Y3M.C.A. 1 1 representative of the Y.W.C.A. 1 Pastor of Peoples Church who is to be ex-offic- io chairman 1 15 This task of getting all of the four denominations to - 33 - agree on all the provisions was a difficult one. After each of them had made a state-wide campaign to raise its own share towards the Building Fund, one denomination refused to give it up, saying that it was not allowed to put money raised in such a way into the treasury of another denomina- tion. Another one said it could not put its money into an interdenominational organization. Other difficulties were also encountered. As a result, the sponsors of the PeOples Church were very much discouraged, and almost gave up the hope of ever smoothing out its difficulties. Perhaps the principal force in causing them to finally come to an agreement was the appeal to the greater efficiency and financial economy that would result from an interdenom- inational project. With the cooperation of four denominations, work with the college students could be brought to a higher level. A better student pastor could be obtained. A finer church plant for the religious and social needs of the students could be erected. Moreover, the community itself was paying toward the erection and upkeep of the building, and would pay for all the Church eXpenses except the salary of the student pastor. As a result, by convincing one party that giving to an "interdenominational Church" was not the same as giving to a "denomination"; by adjusting a few other problems, as making special arrangements in the construction of the platform of the Church so immersion could be given at bap- tisms, if any members so desired; and by appealing to the economic efficiency of the plan, the agreement was finally accomplished among the representatives. Soon after this, on - 34 - April 1, 1923, Dr. C. C. COpeland was appointed field secretary fer the four denominations. The first sod for the new Church was turned, on July 29, 1923 and at last erection of the new building was under way. Mrs. Grace E. Lyon assumed duties as Church Secretary, on Sept. 1, 1923, succeeding Mrs. Mc Elroy. With the beginning of the college term, came a new woman students' director, Miss Doris Frizzell. Mr. Weaver began teaching college credit classes in religious education, for the first time this kind of instruction had been given in Michigan State College. On Oct. 15, 1923 the Church ceased to be the "Peoples Church (Congregationa1)" and was re-incorporated as an interdenominational Church, "The Peoples Church of East Lansing, Michigan". (13) The method of transference is an interesting one. About a month previous to this date, 12 prominent members had asked for letters of dismissals When they were granted, they had met and organized, electing officers for the contemplated "PeOples Church Interdenomin- ational", for which they were able to secure a state charter on Oct. 1, 1923. The 458 members remaining in "Peoples Church Congregational" thereupon sent the following letter to the twelve: "The PeOples Congregational Church of East Lansing, Michigan to the Peoples Church of East Lansing, Michigan: Greetings. This certifies that all active members (per list) are (13) See appendix for "Articles of Association". - 35 - members in good and regular standing of the Peoples Congre- gational Church of East Lansing, Michigan. As such, they are at their own request, hereby dismissed, and affection- ately recommended to the fellowship and care of the PeOples Church of East Lansing, Michigan, and when received by it, their membership with this Church will cease. By vote of the Church, Oct. 1, 1923 C. F. Woodcock, Clerk" The "Peoples Church (Congregational)" gave up its charter; the twelve members of "Peoples Church Interdenom- inational" voted to assume their assets and liabilities, and to receive them into their membership. As a result, on Oct. 15, 1923, "Peoples Church Interdenominational" increased from 12 members to 580 members! Because of the unusual amount of ministerial work necessary at this time, a minister's assistant, Mrs. Lydia P. Gillie, was appointed and assumed duties on Nov. 1, 1923. She remained until the following September. On Nov. 24, 1923, the corner stone of the present church buildingwas laid. An indication of the extent to which Peoples Church was exerting its influence is revealed by an examination of the speakers on the program: The invocation was given by the president of the Lansing Ministers' Association. Remarks were given by the President of the Student Council of the college and by the President of the Woman's Society; addresses by the President of the College, and by the pastor. The college band played. The corner stone was laid by the four denominational trustees. -35- From January 25 to 27, the first annual "College Christian Conclave" was held, with representatives from the four denominations leading in discussions among the students. The purpose of the "conclave" was to give the students an opportunity to have personal consultations with leading religious thinkers and to hear addresses from them. The three days "conclave" began with a special convocation in the Armory, and continued with meetings and services at the Church. Saturday was devOted to personal consultations. Two of the leaders found it necessary to admit three or four students at a time in order to see everyone who wished to talk with them. Five fraternity houses invited the leaders to discuss problems with them. Since this conclave in 1924, a student conference of some sort has been held every year, lasting in each case from three days to a week. In 1931. a state-wide conference of student delegates was held here under the leadership of Kirby Page. Other student leaders, like Bruce Curry, Allyn K. Foster and Dean Chas. W. Gilkey of Chicago have led meetings for the students under the auspices of the Church and Y3M.C.A. On Sept. 1, 1924, Miss Neva Mary Lovewell was appoint- ed director of women students religious work, and Y.W.C.A. secretary. Two months later, the Reverend Benjamin Heideman, a Presbyterian, became assistant minister and director of religious education. At this time there was felt a need for another person to assist Dr. COpeland as field secretary. so on December 1, Mr. F. H. Sanford was appointed as his helper. A year later, in 1925, Mr. Heideman started teaching - 37 - week day religious education classes to the school children. At last, after twenty-three years, Miss Dresser's dream had become realized. From May 11 to 18, 1926, the dedication of the new building took place. Five thousand attended the services. On Dedication Sunday, May 16, Dr. Ozora Davis, president of the Chicago Theological seminary gave the sermon. The ded- ication of the building was done by five principal leaders of the four denominations and the Peoples Church. BishOp Thomas Nicholson, president of the Anti-Saloon League of America, and Dr. Davis consecrated the Church membership and congregation. The choir consisting of about 50 members sang the anthem. The pipe organ recital from 10:15 to 10:30 by Mr. W. J. Tillitson, the organist of Central Methodist Church, Lansing, was telephoned to Peoples Church and broad~ cast by radio over station WEAR, the college station. At that time Peoples Church had no pipe organ. At 4:00 P.M. Sunday; the dedication of Newell A. Mc Cune Chapel took place, the words of dedication being given by the Reverend Frank Kingdom, Central Methodist Church, Lansing and three other Lansing ministers. In the evening at 7:30, there was a special service in which the former pastor, the Rev. F. W. Corbett, Mr. Bennett Weaver, Rev. Benjamin Heideman, Rev. John G. Biery took part, and Bishop Nicholson preached. The M.S.C. Orchestra and College Choral Union gave four musical numbers. The other services of the week from May 11 to 18 indicate with what great enthusiasm and appreciation the completion of the church building was received by its members and friends. On Tuesday, May 11, 1926 at 6:30 P.M. was held a Victory Banquet. Prof. J. T. Blaisdell, one of the "fathers" of the PeOples Church told the 470‘persons gathered that this Church was "at.least two, if not four generations ahead of its time in showing what can be done with inter- denominational cooperation? He and Dean E. H. Ryder rehears- ed the difficulties the Church had gone through to achieve the present level, and congratulated the college, the com- munity, the state, the staff, the religious leaders of the four denominations and the pioneers who made possible the rapid progress of the community Church. Besides special music by the choir and soloists, there was community singing led by a student. On Wednesday, from three to six, the Woman's Society held a reception. At 7:30, there was a religious education program, an address by Dr. J. D. Jeffrey, and Dedication of the class-rooms. On Thursday at 6:30, "All College Night" was held at the Church. President Butterfield of the college, Mr. Weaver, President Spencer, Dr. 0. D. Foster, Hon. Thomas E. Johnson, and B. J. Dobben, a student, were the speakers. Music was given by the varsity quartet, and community singing led by a student. On Friday was "Lansing Night", at which a banquet was given by the luncheon clubs of Lansing. On Monday evening there was a concert by the Michigan State College Choral Union given at the Church. At.two different times on Tuesday, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra gave a concert at the Church. - 39 - From an examination of the above activities of the Church at this climatic period of its history there is gained a conception of the progress of the Church, its integration with the community, and the scope of its efforts. In the appendix will be found a capy of the Church plans. The cost of the entire church building was $350,000, not including furnishings. In an account of the Church activities for this period as given in the "Lansing State Journal" for May 10, 1926 are found these words concerning the church building: "The Church in which all these assemblies will gather, and which is the center of all services is one of the finest and most perfectly equipped in this part of the country. One of its main features is its adaptibility to community needs, social as well as religious". The building is located at such a position that it is literally "The Church at the Center". It stands at the intersection of M 39 and U S 16, the two main streets of East Lansing, and diredtly across the road from the campus, where it is very accessible to residents and students alike. (See map, chart No. 2). East of it is the business district, south of it is the campus, and on the west and north, residences. A Chicago architect is quoted as having said, "It is the best site in the city. Easy to see, easy to find, easy to get to, from all parts of the city". (14) The building is 150' long and 100' in width, and contains three stories and a basement. The third floor is (14) From a clipping from a 1919 East Lansing newspaper. - 4o - devoted to Church school purposes and to organizations, like scouts, which are connected with this age period. On the second floor are parlors for men and women students, which may be used as one large parlor, or as five separate parlors divided by accordion doors. A #350 radio set and complete furnishings for the student parlors were given by private individuals from Chicago, Innis and Detroit. On the same floor there is a suite of offices for the staff members, two large rooms for small children and a kitchenette for the use of the students. (There is a kitchen or kitchenette on all four floors). At the entrance of the first floor is a spacious hallway and a friendship foyer floored with slate, for which a large sum of money was donated. The purpose of building this foyer was to provide a place for social intercourse before and after service. The general office for the Church secretary and other department heads leads off from the main lobby. The chapel, to the left, is reserved for week- day services, weddings, funerals and meetings of small groups. The auditorium is designed to seat 1300 persons. A baptistry is counter-sunk below the floor of the rostrum. A moving picture booth has been erected over the main entrance to the balcony for a double projecting machine, and to serve as a look-out post for the radio broadcasting Operator. At the front of the auditorium is a choir loft that seats 50 persons. On the first floor are: the women's society room, - 41 - three class rooms for religious education, the men's parlor( which was furnished by Governors of Michigan). and a kitchenette. From 1926 to November 1931, the city library was housed in one of the credit class rooms. In the basement are: offices of the employment bureau, the furnishings of which are donated by a man from Wheeling. Virginia, a banquet hall to seat 500, gymnasium to be used for sports, a large kitchen and tea-rook, store and checking rooms and lavatories. The dedication of the Cassavant pipe organ took place March 13, 1927 with Mr. Frank Wrigley of Detroit the concert organist, Mrs. Olive Dobson Henkel the soloist, and Mrs. L. B. Sholl the accompanist. Since the dedication of the Church, there have been no unusual happenings in the Church history. There have been a number of changes in the staff. In July, 1927. Reverend Robert M. Pratt, a Congregationalist, came as associate pastor, filling Mr. Heideman's place. In 1928, Reverend Norman W. Kunkel. a Presbyterian, replaced Mr. Weaver as director of men's student work. In September, 1931, Miss Emma Sater, a Congregationalist replaced Miss Lovewell as director of women students, and Dr. Martin Luther Fox, a Methodist was appointed associate pastor to succeed Mr. Pratt. The foregoing description brings the history of Peoples Church from 1902 to 1932, a period of 30 years. Through it all, certain sociological principles have been demonstrated. Unusual leadership, both among the w 'h‘ ministers and the Church members, is apparent. Throughout - 42 - its existence, there has been constant though regular growth, far out-reaching the eXpectations of its founders and supporters. There has always been one uniting force among the members of the Church, the ideal of interdenom- inationalism. despite the fact that in the beginning they were nominally a part of the Congregational denomination. The reason for its organization was primarily, the need for a community center. Peoples Church has constantly kept in mind the constituency of its membership, that is, the three classes of people comprising it; the college students, the faculty, and the non-academic citizens. It has also realized the fact that no one denomination can dominate the others. There has been a high degree of COOperation and community- mindedness among the members. Service for the entire community has been the key-note of the entire organization. Group unity is one of the fundamental sociological concepts. The function of the Church in this direction constitutes one of its main sociolgical bearings. This unity between the different classes of peOple, the sympathetic appreciation between college and community, the efficiency of management, the flexibility of the Church to meet changing needs, and other sociological principles may be found illustrated in its history, and will be made more apparent in subsequent chapters. - 43 - Chapter III .MEMBERSHIP OF PEOPLES CHURCH A, As Revealed By Annual Church Statistics Absolutely uniform and complete statistics for all (the years of the Church's existence are not available. For the years from 1911 through 1923, data were tabu- lated according to the system shown in Table I, so that for these years the statistics are uniform and quite complete. from 1924 through 1931, however, some items, such as composition according to sex, differentiation of new members into those received by letters and those by confession of faith, numbers of families represented, and distinctions between adult and infant baptisms are not always recorded. By taking into consideration, how- ever, the material which has been tabulated, or has been obtained by counting the cases on record in the clerk's books, and in the Church bulletins, certain tendencies in the membership of Peoples Church may be discovered. For the years for which data are given, the average division of sexes is 79.6 males to every 100 females. By the 1930 census, it was observed, the division for East Lansing as a whole was 90 males to every 100 females, as compared with 80.5 males to every 100 females in the Church membership of 1930. This is almost exactly the same figure as that for the United States as a whole. (2) The total membership of Peoples Church has increased (2) Fry - "The United States Looks at Its Churches". Page 9. .oanmanmes mess on * man on mm 0 an. o as m no as an a mafia nno can smog mmm Ha H» o no 0 ma m mm mm mm * mnHH mmo mom oan Han mH sH H mm 0 an o eOH om mm * eaOH coo Hoe mmoH oom mm mm o a * mm H Ha me mm * mmOH mom one mmoH 00¢ on mm HH 05 0 Ha m omH * * 5H dam «on Gee bmoH * NH NH 0 mH o mH o HmH * * * mom * * omoH or o 0 O or or 0H m... mm * * a. .vnm * .w mmmH * ©¢ mm wm mm" 0 on m i * a. a. mob a. a. Hammad mom 0 o n mm 0 mm H He He on a duo own 0mm mmmH Hnm ma ea 4 ma 0 as m, as an as on Hun con man moms mmH mm 0 ON mH o mH o mOH no om mm Hum mum new HmmH maH dH 9 HH 0H 0 pH o 00 do on H5 and com mom ONOH msH mH HH e mm m 0H s oHH no mm mm nHe mum an mHoH omH mm om m nH a m o as. so an no oHn mmH enH mHoH omH o o 0 0H 0 HH m 00 mm mm 0 now mmH OHH mHmH omH o o o b o m N o o o o HmH on mm onH omH m o w w o w o m b H o me 00H mm mHoH OMH OH H a m o a H an mH eH on mmH HOH em «HmH omH o n n a o m H mH HH m an ¢oH am no nHaH 00H m n 0 HH 0 HH 0 mm mm mm mm mmH mm on «HmH 00H 0 o o mH HH a 0 pH mH N am bHH on mm HHmH mOHH Hm..ooa Assn .ozfl .a edema losses. .9 .socano mosses spoon .9 posses .nousoo .ooa .a camera ona .esm.nw come mm coeosom 11 cobHoomm nnogamfi .thH 1 Hana .sonsso noamooa no oneness no nonsnnessm sonsso assess 1 .H odors - 44 - slightly over ten times over this period of 20 years, and more than fourteen times since its organization in 1907. with a membership of 83. The corresponding increase of the population of East Lansing from 1911 through 1931 has been only a little more than five times. (1) For the years in which information is given concern- ing members received by confession of faith and by letter, 1912 is the only year when the members received by confess- ion exceeded those received by letter. For the other fifteen years when members were received, there have been from 1 1/4 to 7 times as many members received by letter as by confession. In 1911, eleven.members, or almost one-tenth of the total membership, were discontinued. Just why such a large percentage (more than any succeeding year) lost interest at this time, may be explained in part by the fact that for the first time in its existence East Lansing was having a church building. As a result, persons who were not deeply. interested in the welfare of the new institution, but who were carried away with the novelty of the situation, joined the Church. As might be expected, however, they gradually lost interest and finally broke away entirely. On the other hand, there may have been individuals whose emotional natures were not satisfied by the broad tenets and informal program of the new Church, so they too became indifferent and grad- ually severed connections with the new Church. Except for this year, however, and 1915, when the number of members (1) See Table II for East Lansing's population. - 45 - removed was exactly equal to the number received, the members received in all the other years far exceeded those removed. There is no unusual increase in the number of bap- tisms for the more recent years. In fact, the preportion of I baptisms to the number of members decreased rather than I increased. For the twenty years, there were 103 baptisms ) as compared with 233 infant or Child baptisms. For the first seven years there were almost as many families represented as members. This may be interpreted as indicating that during these years, the membership consisted mostly of heads of families. After 1918, however, the members were from 2 to 2 1/2 times as numerous as the families represented, which may indicate either or both of two sit- uations. namely, a larger number of single persons added to the membership, and more persons in the same family became members of the Church. B. Membership of the Church as Compared with the Population of East Lansing. In Table II, the membership of the Church is compared with the population of East Lansing during the same years. For the inter-census years, the population of East Lansing was arrived at by assuming that pOpulation increases geo- metrically. (3) The effective rate of change(increase) per year during 1910-1920 is 11, and for the decade 1920-1930, 11.4. Seventy-four per cent of the people of East Lansing were considered thirteen years of age and over, or at the (3) Se; Mills, F. C. - "Statistical Methods". Pages 34, 35. 13 -139. .oHanHm>m pom mpma * A. 2 1. man s. an no: as: Shh pose $3 m.HH owe m.nm mmHH mnHH sown ammo ommH «.NH 009 o.mm anH «OOH mmam mmow ONOH H.0H new m.om NHOH «NOH mean moon mmmH H.mH NHw o.mm dam wmm mmmm moon ammH * * H.mm mmm 5mm mHmm anm oNOH * * H.mm 0mm omw HnHm mwm mmmH * * m.mm can one mmmH doom ammH ¢.wH 0mm ¢.mw moo one oomH mmwm mmmH m.oH new m.om on Hmm mmmH ommm mmmH n.mH me n.0m mom Hum HmmH moom mmH N.¢H mom m.mm and who mmmH ommH mmH e.eH men ¢.Hm mow nHe obmH LmaH mHmH H.mH HmH m.mm mHm mHn HaHH mmmH mHmH H.¢H m m m.mm mmm mmm #50 mme aHmH m.HH 00H m.mH mbH Hm mom nmnH onH n.mH HmH o.oH omH mMH mHo nmmH mHmH * * ¢.Hm omH .mH mam mnHH eHmH * * Atom 3.. e3 o2. $3 23 w.¢H HwH e.Hm mmH mmH mom who mHmH * * m.sH mHH mHH new mom HHmH mom.” mNH * * * Mam mom OHOH Rabo one paw mo hmwamm mangoes haunsm .mnh nH .o .m we nmeo was nebo was new .m .m wdH. nom.m .m we outpace one one one go .mnm mfinm own 90 .mp» Ivnppps .H .fi Ho cosmuqupd. nm>o pan .msa mH nH opposed unonsoa nH .H .m mH mnHmspH.m 0Hnoom.uo..aom. eweao>< .H .m we .pom genome scheme .9 OHaoom .oz 90 .mom snow .Hoonom seesaw was gossno neHooom mswompppm mmHnmmH poem no pHmoom mo pmooapm was nonadz 1 .HH OHQNH -46.. age when they are most likely to consider Church member- ship. The percentage of East Lansing thirteen years of age and over who are members of PeOples Church is tabulated in the fourth column. It is significant that this percentage steadily increases, reaching its peak in 1924, when almost 40% of the possible Church members of East Lansing belonged to PeOples Church. (See Chart I). The per cent of people of East Lansing attending \ PeOples Church Sunday School is a fairly constant figure, I varying from 10.1% in 1928 to 16.8% in 1922. Since all ) persons of every age are eligible for membership in the Sunday School, and since only average attendance is the figure used, (4)this uniformity of average attendance at the Sunday School is a significant indication of the success of Peoples Church as an integrating force in the community, and of its fulfillment of a definite, constant need for religious training. The degree to which the community of East Lansing is interested in Peoples Church is brought out by the follow- ing facts: . From September 1931 to May 1932, Dr. M. L. Fox, the associate pastor of Peoples Church, has been making house- to- house calls on all the families in East Lansing. He reports that there are about 1350 families in East Lansing. Of this number, 575 are represented in Peoples Church member- ship. About 500, he estimates, belong to other Churches outside of East Lansing, about 100 families going to Lansing (4) Comparison of enrollments for the different months in five years, will be discussed in the Chapter on Organ- izations. \er ahtx «use b «bx «dye wdvx .kdrx liflfix miss diva sd$~ ML tnrx re mxr\ wax Nesx C\s\ L39. a\r~ SS. 4:1 - s 9 ~ 111 a.) W1 -4 1 - .111 . 1. .,.H ..,. ... . 1 H J 1 - , .. .. 1 1 1 1 ,1 11 ...-1.... . . . . .. i .. ... .......o. 1.0.1,. .91 a.» .1 v.... 1.1.« .o A. c. . . .. . 1 . .. . .1 a 1 . .. Q ..........+ .. ... m.... ... .. . .... r.....1.. ......+1. . -i..q...1. . .... ... .. . . . . .... . .. . . . . .. . . . 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H _ a , —v 4 . a 1.. ..>.o .444.o-..Y .....14sn o4.c acebev.oeqo. 4.a.....t. a 44 ...» ... o...v..o-..v..+.e~...».4. .... m. r . . . a . Yutnuave.w....—.._- _.. bio. Io; ’l’ 1" ’10 Ill 2n n u. pen-'5... + +1.4 Nau- era“ 1‘fl3h Lea (It. 30¢.in vr f. '13 '14 'r; '15 ‘ c. lacs; 0 . R. a. 0 an S at cm; 2 I5 77"55 9'4: II c O ' I CA I with 1.4.6.: ’I. ’13 '19 '30 ’8] ' '2: a, it‘s-e all: 50‘ I. rear/c s c. I WA}; e.‘ a 3-.” ; {rm- ll a too; can 5 4 'a: ‘39 '30 '3! ovugi I .f (Mn-ls ASSCJI' a :- «mo-n r! If ago. ’13 ’Jf'zr’ac’ .' 1 '4' ’17 ’30 ’3’ 0 I n. -¥.—H fi—-_—.—-— —'—V.—.- 1343'»: The Woman's Society The Woman's Society was first organized in 1907 at the A. C. Anderson home. The following table of disbursements indicates the degree to which the efforts of the Society have increased on a financial basis: 1918 = 3 675 1925 = t 4.153 1919 = 500 1926 = 12,256 1920 = 800 1927 = 3,424 1921 = 2758 1928 = 3,896 1922 = 1754 1929 = 4,563 1930‘ = 5,201 1931 = 4,977 There are six divisions of the Woman's Society which meet twice a month on Wednesday afternoons. Once a month they meet as divisions at different homes, and once a month they meet as an entire organization at the Church. In 1927, the total enrollment was 270, and the average attendance 60, or 22.2 per cent. In 1931: the total membership was 380, but the average attendance was not given. Perhaps the biggest financial projects the Woman's Society assumed was the taking over in 1929 of a note of $11,800 for the payment of the Cassavant organ in the Church. By the end of 1931, they had paid off $6100 on the organ, besides a $2175 note at the East Lansing State Bank, and the $1000 a year cost of running eXpenses. Their main sources of income have cone from the serving of church-night suppers (3 were served in 1931 with an average attendance of 250) and serving of meals for special occasions, like convention meetings at the Church. Besides the serving of meals -60... their sources of receipts in 1931 have been from the following: Bazaar 1930 $ 10.50 Concert 78.80 Cook Books 5.00 Dudley Paper Co. 6.75 Gifts 175.00 Laundry 6.40 Meals 1066.66 Miscellaneous 3.03 Programs 12.82 Refreshments .69 Supplies .10 Rentals 259.39 Division I 333.96 Division II 524.87 Division III 317.88 Division IV 329.67 Division V 397.83 Division VI 185.51 Organ Rental 446.34 Total $4161.20 Of these receipts, #1255 was used to pay off the bank note, and $2145 went to the organ fund. Besides these activities, the Woman's Society made 400 calls on new people, and paid out $50 to the Welfare Work. In 1926 they assumed the entire cost of furnishing the Women's Parlor in the new church building, an item of $10,174.42. They sent flowers to homes where there had been illness or death, and cards of congrat- ulation on the arrival of new babies. Throughout their entire existence, the Woman's Society has taken an active part in helping assume Church obligations, and have contributed a great deal in service for community needs, as well as serving as a means of social get-together for the women in the community and their families. The Missionary Society The Women's Missionary Society meets for one afternoon - 61 - every third week of the month at the Church. The average attendance in 1926 was 32. The total enrollment in 1931 was 99. Their special projects have been to sponser a day of prayer once a year, to help to support a number of hospitals and special missionary projects, to give designated amounts to the four denominations for missionary enterprises, to send flowers and gifts to sick peeple and to sponsor 'receptions in honor of returned missionaries. In their programs, they have made studies of outstanding books on missionary work, and had a number of returned missionaries speak to them. The Student Department The student department consists of the following organizations: 1. The Y3M.C.A. for undergraduate men students. 2. The Y.W.C.A. for undergraduate women students. 3. The Students' Citizenship League for men students, meeting every Sunday noon for 45 minutes. 4. The Campus Girls' Assembly for women students, meeting every Sunday noon for 45 minutes. 5. The Student Christian Union for mixed groups of students, meeting every Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. 6. The Religious Council composed of the officers of the student organizations. 7. The Fireside Club composed of graduate students and young instructors. 8. The Friday Night Parties for men and women students. The YtM.C.A. consists of nine committees dealing with the special problems that their names suggest. They are: Membership, Publicity, Freshman Relations, Foreign - 62 - Students, Deputation, Social Service, Student—Faculty Relat- ions, Church Relations, and Handbook publication. Under the direction of the Y.M.C.A. cabinet, a "Freshman Council" meets every other Wednesday evening, at the student director's home, its main purpose being to develOp leaders for the future student groups. In connection with the Y.M.C.A. the employment bureau for college students is housed in the Church. Rev. J. G. Biery, the employment bureau secretary, estimates that approximately 85 per cent of the student body works in temporary or permanent jobs. During registration week, he says 1000 students come to the office for jobs. The various Y.M.C.A. committees meet at different times, but the cabinet meets once a week on Sunday mornings. During 1931, there was a total enrollment of 430. The Y.W.C.A. consists of fifteen separate departments: Dramatics, Music, Girl Reserves, Social Service, WorkshOp. Ways and Means, Foreign Born, Publicity, Freshman Council, Deputation, Membership, Program, Social, Typing and Memeo- graphy, and Campus Girls' Assembly. Monthly meetings of the entire group (in 1931 there was an enrollment of 307 girls) are planned, when the entire group meets in a social way in student parlors at the Church, generally the third Thursday of the month from 7:30 to 8:30. Four Vesper Services are planned for the year. The cabinet meets each Tuesday afternoon for an hour. A few of their activities in 1931 may be enumerated as follows: During the Kirby Page Confer- -63- ence, the girls took the reaponsibility of serving break- fast to 183 delegates from various colleges and the state university, the expenses being borne by the five main organizations for undergraduate students. The girls dressed 30 dolls which were given away at Christmas to needy children; layettes were made, milk ordered delivered regularly to each of three families for the rest of the college year. Deputation teams have been sent to two neighboring towns giving the evening program in Churches when ministers were unable to be in their pulpits. The program of the Student Citizenship League is one of Open forums, discussions, addresses by student leaders and by invited outside speakers and the student director. The attendance at these meetings every Sunday noon is about 25. The Campus Girls' Assembly have informal meetings for the college women similar to those of the Citizenship League. In 1931, a series of appreciation talks were given by outside speakers, especially qualified in the field of music, art, poetry, drama, etc., the theme being "Finding the Beautiful". The attendance at these meetings has fluctuated with the school term, as has every other student organization but the average attendance was about 30. The Students Christian Union averages about 75 men and women students who meet informally for two hours on Sunday evenings for a program of games, songs, a 15¢ supper together. discussions, and worship services. -64- The Religious Council has a constitution which regulates its organization. The Purpose, as stated in the constitution, is "to bring together for cooperative religious effort the student religious organizations of the campus engaged in a common religious program". Regular meetings of the executive membership of this organization are held on the second Tuesday of each month, and the associate membership, consisting of the officers and chair- man of the standing committees of the five student organiza- tions meet when requested by the President of the Religious Council. The Fireside Club has an average attendance of about 20 graduate students and young instructors. They meet in- formally every two weeks, on Sunday evenings at the homes of one of the members, the home of the student director, or at the Church. Their program consists in discussing current topics, or taking part in any type of program the group desires. At the Friday night parties, from 40 to 150 men and women students gather for three hours of games and songs. A charge of 10¢ a person is made to cover the cost of light refreshments served at the close of the meeting. As to the type of membership of these organizations, a few general observations may be made. The Church groups are especially pOpular with the non-fraternity students as a means of meeting on social grounds. The Y.W.C.A., by nature of its program, and because it is considered a campus activity, is more popular with the sorority women than are -55- the mixed student groups. The same might be said about the Y.M.C.A., but to a slightly lesser degree. In 1930, six courses in Religious Education were offered for college credit. In 1931, due to a change in staff, this number was cut to three. Once or twice a month, the student director gives out a short program of activities or announcements about the various groups. The Student-faculty groups meeting at the homes of various faculty members, for about 10 meetings a year, average about 12 persons at each faculty home. Thirty to thirty-five faculty members offered their homes in 1931. About six groups met each time, making a total average attendance of about 72 students at each of the 10 meetings. The nature of the programs of these meetings have differed according to the host, some being primarily social, and others being more formal in character, as of the discussion of a book report given by a student. In 1931, 116 students joined the Church as affiliate members. Their distribution by counties and denominations ) will be discussed in a subsequent chapter. ‘ The general purpose of the student groups may be summarized in the words of the director of women students in her annual report to the Church in January, 1932: "We are attempting to help the student feel that our Church is a shrine for worship, a home away from home, a school for religious education, a laboratory for training lay leaders for specialized religious tasks. We are attempt- - 66 - ing to help the individual student find fulness of life through our personal contacts and through the program of our student organizations". The Sunday School Peoples Church Sunday School is the most historic ”_,fiilh organization in the Church. Before the Church was establish- ed, the East Lansing Sunday School was the strongest factor for community integration. In a previous chapter,(1)it has been pointed out that the Sunday School average weekly attendance from 1911 to 1931 has remained at a relatively constant ratio in comparison with the population of East Lansing, an indication that the Sunday School is fulfilling a definite need in the community. In Chart VI will be found a graphic representation of the organization of the Sunday School. Previous to 1911, the average attendance of the Sunday School increased from 40 in 1902 to 125 in 1910, an increase of over 300 per cent. The average attendance of 575 in 1931 is an increase of over 1400 per cent over that of 30 years ago. The total enrollment of the entire Sunday School in 1931 was 887. The general secretary for the Sunday School (2)figured that the total enrollment of 461 for the departments of school age was 44 per cent of the total school enrollment of 1042. The total enrollment for all departments, 887, was 22.34 per cent more than the total enrollment in 1930 of 725. By departments, the comparisons with school population for 1031, was found by the secretary to be as follows: (1) See Table II, Chapter III. (2) Mr. H. L. Kohls [If Aodr. Log. maLOLVIL wdbcr< VtL .... +¢..LA. .03.“. an FDL¢ vs0..&0U.V N “LOLDmeL‘ III-g JpL {U “Queuidtobm .zcb fit" «“20 $7.3 YIN “an." . Jen . 3!; ...Lo P3 «do: pick. $01009 ...LoA 4‘2: but. “to: ask. #“Oflflv.< his» 0....“ vanguard. CS ...”...Snwh tom. *~$V< ht‘? “‘0‘ .Lh Lfivcu ...—5 55‘ 0.5‘UQ Ux‘.‘ . A! ..u‘QLU D P p fl n U r D D P L r h) P r P b I D . $0. htotsgoLF le+on+L~LuA Inuit-Um licofiiimadfl “*YUYmfibkkv fiu‘~U ch “Leaves... .“Loq “.\L.vfi\ o t n'*‘ . + on -..va be... «to: = ... ... . . . ed 2:3, a ...... ... ....s ..s it .3. $5 r) ’ ' ’ ’ '1 I)" h+ertv+c..Lo&8m .~+:U£.—51ROA . KL¢+chUm , tug-58.5w +¢erf~cuLvs9m .vthto+¢..Lvaw \ 1 t; Misfi tetra; tot-30m LdtandUer n3 End read - ~fltdc0d \ULdtdiU \ LOauULbn Lb I 1) ) Haul... «9.0.3.9.: Q LEVY-....w rmLVLSm ~0L0t06 a... 9503‘ o‘:o+:..&dklw sflLO—SIG you‘vh xi‘csm {0.13:0 noakovk. use nwLNIU .eto...-.n..<$hLO -67- For the Primary grades, the Sunday School enrolled 34% N N '0 n Junior 2: n n 11 n 33% " Intermediate " " " ” ” 35% N n n n n n «,1 Senior 18p In Charts VII and VIII will be found data on the daily attendance of the Sunday School by different years, and also the performance of the Sunday School for fall term of 1926. They bring out a number of important facts: 1. The average daily attendance has increased from year to year, but the same seasonal tendencies are apparent through-out. Viz: The peak months of attendance for almost every year are the winter months of November, December, January and February. In the spring there is a gradual decrease and in the summer months, especially the vacations months of July and August there is a very apparent drop. The attendance and collection curves for the same periods of time (1926) have duplicated each other in a striking manner. This would indicate that there is a remarkable regularity of financial support in the Sunday School. In 1931, however, according to the general treasurer's report, the material receipts were not keeping pace with the growth in enrollment. This has probably been caused by the economic depression which has effected the entire nation during the last two or three years. . The following is a summary of the membership and activi- ties of the various departments of the Sunday School in 1931: m tags... 0"” p’.‘ c+d° u*~.“ 23‘ k‘: at‘ uh‘x MICHIGAN STATE COLLEGE _IO¢¢LM. Ad’fl‘hzhdflfl’Iuw “U r ‘JJYQI LOL, Ué‘ctt‘ Ld>< 'r I'll I! u. MICHIGAN STATE COLLEGE ufi. .225 Cd's $0 LioLISU +5.4 LI.‘ ~OI¢¢M IVE!“ {013:0 a. 0!“, V6 .UUVNSLOWLUL. - 68 - The Beginners Department This department consists of three divisions. 1. Home Registration or Cradle Roll- In this department, children under three years of age are enrolled. They are visited occasionally and kept in touch with until they are old enough to come to Sunday School. 2. The Nursery. In this department, small children are taken care of while their parents attend the Church service. In 1948, the combined Cradle Roll and Nursery had a total enrollment of 130, with an average attend- ance of 25- Figures are not quoted for 1931- 3. The Kindergarten or Beginners' classes have 90 children of the ages from 3 - 5 years. The average attendance is 60, with ten teachers in charge. The Primary Department Membership is confined to the school grades 1, 2, 3. Enrollment was 131, average attendance during the winter term, 91. There are 14 classes, with 17 teachers and officers. The Junior Department Membership consists of school grades 4.5.6. In 1931, there were 4 different superintendents, yet the department was not materially injured, an indication of the efficient organization of the School. The number of pupils enrolled were 132, and the average attendance in the winter months 102, a remarkably high average. There were 14 officers and teachers for them. -59- The Intermediate Department Membership consisted of school grades 7,8,9. The number of officers and teachers was 17 for 10 classes. The total enrollment was 133, but the average attendance was not given. The Senior Department Senior high school grades 10,11,12 were included in this department, the total enrollment being 44. There are two classes, 1 consisting of all the boys, and 1 consisting of all the girls. The Adult Department The total enrollment of this department in 1931 was 173. There are five classes which meet at 9:30 or at 12:00, every Sunday morning and noon. The classes are called: 1. Business and Professional Women's Class 2. The Fellowship League 3. The Sunday Morning Forum for Men and Women 4. The Good Cheer Class 5. The Friendly Bible Class The Home Department consists of about five "shut-ins" who are regularly visited by especially appointed persons. The activities of these departments can not be adequately covered. They all take up some suitable religious study or discussion, and have special missionary projects for which they raise money or direct their activities. On Sunday evenings, a "Sunday Evening Club" of high school boys and girls conduct discussion groups. There is an average attendance at these meetings of about 20. - 7o - In 1929 and 1930 there had been a vacation school which has run for four weeks of the summer term. The sessions lasted three hours for five days a week. In 1928 there had been a total registration of 121, and in 1930 a registration of 124. The daily attendance in 1930 was 115 pupils. The children were all in the grades, 3,4, 5. 6. The program consisted in worship, Bible stories, instruction in ethics, sewing, dramatics, woodworking and recreation. There was no vacation school in 1931. The Young Married Peoples Class was organized in 1930. The purpose of its origin was the hope that it would "develope into the social and religious link between newcomers into the community and the Church in its varied activities". The Board of Elders, the Board of Trustees and the Finance Committee consist of specially delegated persons who meet regularly at specified times during the year to care for matters dealing with the administration of the Church. In addition to these regular auxilliary organizations of the Church, there are a number of secular organizations meeting at the Church which will be mentioned in the next chapter. From the data presented so far in this chapter, it is evident that there are Special appeals for all age groups. Each organization has its own particular function, whether secular or strictly religious. The Church serves as an inte- grating force to all these organizations in a manner similar to that of the United States federal government in its relation to the work of state and local governments. - 71 - It is the purpose of the remainder of this chapter to present the present status and program of PeOples Church, and to point out examples and generalities in which it has proven itself an integrating force in the community. On the last page of the Church bulletins used in 1932 is a list of the regular meetings at Peoples Church. They are indicative of the degree to which Peoples Church is used as a community center. Regular Meetings at Peoples Church Sunday 9:15 YOung Mens' Christian Association Meeting Room 200 9:30 Primary Department, Mrs. 0.B. Winter, Supt. f 207 Junior " O. B. Winter, Supt. " 305 Intermediate " B. J. Ford, Supt. " 302 Business Women's Bible Class, Alma Goetsch,Pres.,Chapel Fellowship League, Dr. C.W. Chamberlain, Leader Room 104 10:30 MORNING WORSHIP Auditorium Nursery and Cradle Roll Dept., Mrs. Jefferson Supt. Rooms 207 and 209 Beginners' Department, Mrs. G. MacKichan Supt. Room 208 12:00 Senior Department, R. S. Linton, Supt. " 302 Young Married Peoples Class, H.E. Olds, Pres. " 107N Open Forum, C. L. Nash, Pres. " 104 Friendly Bible Class, H. M. Brown, Leader Chapel Good Cheer Class, Mrs. Myra Bogue, Leader Room 105 Student Citizenship League, N. W. Kunkel " 200 Campus Girls' Assembly. Miss Emma Sater " 201 4:00 Peoples Church Players, G. Lu Miller, Director " 201 5:00 Student Social Hour, with 15¢ supper " 200 - 72 - 6:00 Student Christian Union Room 200 Sunday Evening Club, Mrs. N.A. McCune Leader " 302 7:00 COMMUNITY SERVICE Monday 4:00 Troop 3 Girl Scouts, Mrs. Lord,Leader " 304 4:00 Advisory Board Meeting, Second Monday of Month " 205 7:00 Hi-Y Group Meeting, C. S. Price, Leader " 107 7:30 Church School Council, First Monday of Month " 302 Tuesday 10:00 Religious Education (College), Mr. Kunkel " 107 5:00 Y. w. c. A. Cabinet Meeting " 200 7:00 Boy Scout Meeting. F. A. Smith, Leader " 304 Young Married Peoples Class Social Evening " 302 7:30 Board of Elders, First Week of Month " 206 Wednesday 2:30 Woman's Society, Second and Fourth Weeks of Month 9105 2:30 Missionary Meeting. First Week of Month " 105 3:45 Girl Scout Troop 26, Mrs. Gray Palm, Leader " 302 7:00 Girl Scout Troop 15, Mrs. C. Stahle, Leader " 302 7:30 Mid-Week Prayer Service Chapel Thursday 10:00 Religious Education (college). Mr. Kunkel Room 107 4:00 Girl Scout Troop 16, Mrs. H.C. Coons, Leader " 304 Girl Scout Troop 23, Mrs. E. C. Sackrider, " " 302 6:30 Fellowship League Social Evening " 304 7100 Choir Rehearsal " 105 Y.W.C.A. All-Membership Meeting " 200 Girl Reserve Groups, 1st, 2nd, & 4th Weeks of Month 200 7:30 Board of Trustees Meeting First Week of Month Room 206 - 73 - Friday 3:45 Junior Choir Rehearsal Room 302 6:30 Friendly Bible Class Social Evening Social Hall 8:00 All Student Fun Nite Room 200 Saturday 1:00 Friendly Indians, Dr. D.C. Mosher, Mr. Wrigglesworth Gym. In addition to the foregoing, and the regular meetings at the Church, the following groups have had programs in the building in 1931: Monthly organ recitals by Music Institute Lutherans, Catholics and Jews have had meetings in the Church. College Music and Liberal Arts Courses were held in the auditorium. There have been: Numerous tea and committee meetings Four funerals Friendly Workers and Remembrance Eleven weddings 15 Secular College organizations Sixteen class recitaka Kirby Page Three Day Conference The Six O'Clock Club Silver Wedding Reception Women's League Council of Church Women Area Girl Reserves Six special entertainments Scout Council Five individual recitals A- A. U. W- May Morning Breakfast Lincoln Day Banquet Homecoming Breakfast High School football, varsity, orchestra, Junior-Senior group meetings. Besides these contacts there have been on the average of 1000 pieces of mail a month, 100 personal calls a day which have been handled by the Church Staff. At present there are six members on the staff. It is not uncommon to have meetings going on in the Church on all four floors. Peoples Church is truly a "seven-day Church". - 74 - The present Peoples Church Auditorium seats 1250 persons. The average morning attendance has been estimated as 700, and the evening service 300, although sometimes there are as many as 1000 or more at the morning service. In an attempt to discover what proportion of the congregation consisted of students, actual count was made of all persons who appeared to be students. The results are as follows: On.March 20, 1932, of an estimated congregation of 750, 240 or 32 per cent were students. At the student classes there were 36 persons. A month later on April 17th, a count was made again as the students left the Church. Of a total estimated attendance of 700, there were 268 or 38.3 per cent students. The following week, April 24th, 1932, was called "Come to Church, Sunday" when invitations were sent to the campus fraternities and sororities to attend in a body. Ten organ- izations besides the Religious Council whose members were installed during the service, made reservations. Of an estimated congregation of 800, 357 or 44.6 per cent were students. _ ._.._... -_____ From the foregoing data, it is evident that from one-third to one-half the congregation consist of students. Four times during the year, on the first Sundays of March, June, September and December, a communion service is held, and members are received into the Church. At Easter and on Children's Day, special classes of boys and girls are admitted as members, and infants are baptised in a larger number than at any other time of the year. At the beginning -75- of the fall term student affiliate members are received at four or five consecutive Sundays. In 1931, 116 students were received as members: The Covenant of the Church is as follows: "I believe the teachings of Jesus Christ, and, with the help of God, I will strive daily to live the life of service, unselfishness and purity which He exemplified to the world". The usual procedure at the Sunday morning service from 10:30 to 12:00 as printed on the Church bulletins is as follows: MORNING WORSHIP, 10:30 PRELUDE THE PROCESSIONAL THE COLLECT: Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid, cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love thee and worthily magnify thy holy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. GLORIA PATRI: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, Amen. (Ushers may seat people at this time) THE SCRIPTURE READING (Ushers may seat people at this time) THE ANTHEM ANNOUNCEMENTS - 76 - THE 0FFERING--"Upon the first day of the week let each of you lay by him in store as God hath proSpered him". THE DOXOLOGY THE OFFERTORY THE QUARTET THE PASTORAL PRAYER THE SECOND HYMN P3 :1: tlj SERMON 'THE CLOSING HYMN THE BENEDICTION AND THREE FOLD AMEN POSTLUDE A vested choir of about 35 members leads the singing at the morning service. The following is a sample of the sermon topics in 1931: Jan. 4, 1931 "The Learned Doctors Diagnose and Prescribe" Feb. 15. " "The Great Decision" March 1, " "Men Who Did Not Care" April 19, " "What Can Decent People Do About Crime and the Criminal?" May 31, " "The Queer Age" June 7. " "Crisis and Communion" July 26, " "Priscilla and Aquila-~4Life Partners" Aug. 16, " "The Unwritten Law" (Delivered by Rev. Pratt, Associate Pastor) Sept. 20, " "The Vision Splendid" Oct. 11, " "Who Wants to Be Good?" Nov. 1, " "Religion-DOpe or Dynamite?" Dec. 13, " "Where Are We Going From Here?" In general it may be said about the program and present - 77- status of the Peoples Church that it represents objective evidences of its significance as an integrating force in the community. Boys and girls, students, men and women of all types of organizations consider the Peoples Church their meeting place. From the data presented in this chapter, the import- ance of Peoples Church as a social institution has been shown from a different vieWpoint. It was observed that the groups attending Peoples Church were diversified in character, covering as many different aspects of religious and secular activities as there were organizations. The extent to which purely secular groups meet at the Church indicates the capacity that it fills as a social center for the entire community. There is much integration, or unification of auxilliary organizations under the general supervision of the Church. Social contacts are made at the Church which are not made in any other place. There is variety of group programs and group aims. Because of these many groups, there is much chance for leadership training. The present program of the Church indicates the fact that there is a set form followed in the Sunday Morning services, but the nature of it is broad. The sermon topics suggest the fact that as the season and the general type of congregation changes, the character of sermons preached changes accordingly. -73- Chapter VI LEADERSHIP OF PEOPLES CHURCH The success of an organization is due in very large measure to the competence of its leaders. Just how great is the role which the leaders play in reflecting the ideals and sentiments of the group, of helping to solve its problems, by virtue of their superior guidance, and of pointing the way to greater aims and wider activities is a question which has been a subject of much Speculation, but has never been adequately solved. There are certain qualities, however, that are recognized in successful leaders. They are endowed with an imagination that can grasp all the ideals of the group, and unify them in their own personalities. They are the living symbols, the embodiment of all the traditions and aims of the group. They are quick to perceive changes in group wants and to shift their own methods of guidance as occasion demands. They generally possess a superior intellect, coupled with personalities which command the respect, loyalty and affection of their followers. They are able to change the policies of a group, by subtle methods which do not arouse antagonism, but trust and allegiance. In the case of institutions like religion, which are idealistic in their aim and s00pe, leaders must also possess an integrity of character which is beyond criticism. The leaders of Peoples Church have bean outstanding persons in intellect, imagination and consecration. If they had not been, they could never have made a practical, working I -79- institution out of this hitherto abstract idea of inter- denominationalism. It has been their Special duty to guide this pioneer religious organization through almost unsur- mountable obstacles which were to be constantly springing up to prevent the breaking-down of age-old traditions among various sects and denominations. They have had to unite individuals of all sorts of ages, occupations, trainings, and beliefs into one strong community-wide religious group. To what degree they succeeded is indicated by the steady growth and influence of the Peoples Church. Because of the diversity of inter-group needs, because of the lapse of time, and because of the need for various types of leadership, Specialized as well as general, there have been many leaders in Peoples Church who can not be mentioned here. There are, however, a few individuals whose influence has been of unusual importance in shaping the broad aspects of PeOples Church and will be treated in this chapter. Professor Bogue, Professor Newman, and Professor Blaisdell are considered the special "fathers" of Peoples Church, because of their early efforts in organizing the Church. They had long talks on the necessity of East Lansing's possessing a community center to unify the various isolated groups. One of them had recently come from a small town where denominational strife was capecially bitter and dis- astrous. This was doubtless a factor in causing him to want to prevent such a situation in East Lansing. As a result, these three men were among the most instrumental leaders of -80.. the new Church. Professor Bogue died in 1907. The first money toward the erection of a church building was raised by the East Lansing Sunday School, of which he had been superintendent, as a memorial to him. In the present church building, there is a plate near the corner stone, placed there in his honor. In the September 24, 1907 issue of the "M. A. C. Reéord", there appeared an article paying tribute to Professor Bogue's service to the college. It is indicative of the esteem with which he was held by other institutions beside the Church. "In his death", it said, "the college loses a man of national reputation in his line of work (forestry), a strong and potent influence for good, and a man whose undaunted courage and untiring energy has built up, under many adverse circumstances, a strong and flourishing department of our college". Professor Newman was treasurer of the Sunday School for 20 years. He is still a leader in the Church. It was Professor Blaisdell who first suggested build- ing the church which was erected in 1910, and took steps to have it accomplished. He was a main speaker at the Victory Banquet in 1926, when he gave an account of the history of the Church, and congratulated the members on their success in bringing Peoples Church to the point that it now was. Mr. and Mrs. Clark C. Wood were the first to organize student classes in connection with the Sunday School. Mr. Wood became the leader of the young women; and Mrs. Wood -81.. of the young men. Just why it was this arrangement instead of Mr. Wood having the men and Mrs. Wood the women is an interesting side-light on their personalities. Mrs. Wood was a kindly. motherly woman who understood and enjoyed young men, and they loved her. Mr. Wood, in his turn, was especially appreciated by the young women, because of his sympathetic attitude toward their problems. In 1908, they organized the Students' Citizenship League, which is still the name of the men students' Sunday noon class, and the League of the Silver Cross, which is now called the Campus Girls' Assembly. The purpose of these classes was Bible study on Sundays with social meetings on Saturdays consist- ing of literary and musical programs and games. As their work grew, and the students became more numerous, it became evident that some person should be engaged to give his full time to them. This was made possible, when the secre- taries of the boards of education of the Baptist, Congre- gational, Methodist and Presbyterian denominations agreed to support such a worker. In April 1919, the Reverend 0. W. Behrens, a Presbyterian and former navy chaplain was appoint- ed, but the Woods' remained until 1922 helping with the classes. The leaders of men students' activities since 1922 have been Professor Bennett Weaver, and Reverend Norman W. Kunkel, the present student pastor and Y.M.C.A. secretary. Professor Weaver had been a member of the faculty in the English department of the college when he was appointed student director. Much of his success as a leader - 82 - of the students was due to his outstanding ability as a teacher and as a public Speaker. Under his guidance, credit classes in religion were started for the first time in the history of the college. The titles of these courses are of special significance to the subject of this thesis in that they attempt to relate religious and social problems. In the fall, he taught "Fundamental Moral and Religious Concepts", in the winter, "Christianity and Social Problems", and in the spring, "Science and Christ". The number of students who were inspired by his idealism and by that quality of personality that draws out the finest qualities in others, can not be measured. It was he who was most instrumental in starting "The College Christian Conclave" for bringing in outstanding religious leaders from all over the country to discuss with student groups vital religious and social questions. Professor Weaver resigned in 1928 to get his Ph. D. at the University of Michigan. He is teaching English there at the present time. Reverend N. W. Kunkel, who became student pastor in 1928, graduated from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Union Theo- logical Seminary. He received his degree of M. A. at Colum- bia University. Under his leadership, student work was brought to a high state of organization. The credit classes which he taught enrolled 56 students during the college year 1930-1931. The titles of his classes were similar to those of Professor's Weaver's. In the fall, "Modern Social Problems of Christianity" was taught, in the winter, "Intellectual Foundations of Christianity", and in the spring, "The Life -83- and Teachings of Jesus". At the same time that Professor Weaver took over the men students' work, Miss Helen Hudson became director of the women students. She was the first Y.W.C.A. secretary to assume duties under the new organizatinn that was evolved when the Y}M.C.A. and Y.W.C.A. became affiliated with the Church program. A year later, when she resigned, Miss Doris Frizzell was appointed to her position, and a year after Miss Frizzell, Miss Neva Mary Lovewell. Miss Lovewell remained at Peoples Church for the seven years from 1924 to 1931. She had been a former student of Michigan State College, but had graduated from Michigan University, specializing in social and religious education. Previous to her appoint- ment as women students director at Peoples Church, she had some social service eXperience with Polish children in Chicago. Her special attributes of leadership were in her ability to pick campus leaders among the women students, and also her direction of the social service branch of the Y.W.C.A. The three credit classes she taught were entitled: Religion in the Home Woman's Place in Modern Religious Movements Religious Callings Miss Emma Sater was appointed as director of women students in 1931. She had been director of young peoples work at Madison, Iisconsin, and had taken charge of the daily vacation Bible schools of 18 Churches there. At one time she was recreational director at Greenland, Wisconsin. The associate pastors have been: Reverend Benjamin Heideman who was appointed assistant minister and director -84... of religious education from 1924 to 1926, Reverend Robert M. Pratt from 1927 to 1931, and Reverend Martin L. Fox in 1931. Under Reverend Pratt's leadership, the Sunday School was brought to an efficient point of organization, and special Sunday evening features were offered to attract families to come to Church in a body. Reverend John G. Biery, who has been employment secretary of the Y.M.C.A., and whose office is at the Church, has been at PeOples Church since 1922. He attended Hillsdale Baptist Seminary from 1893 to 1897, and had had twelve other changes in Michigan previous to his appointment at Peoples Church. During the war, there was one person whose work was eSpecially appreciated, Mrs. Margaret E. Holt. In a little booklet called "The Peoples Church",published in 1919, there appeared this sketch about her: "Mrs. Margaret E. Holt, matron of the Hostess House, came to the Church in this capacity in 1918. She rendered memorable service during the S.A.T.C. dominion. During the influenza epidemic, the Peoples Church proved a haven for parents who came to be as near their stricken ones as possible. In all this critical time Mrs. Holt was tireless in her work of giving comfort to those in sorrow and anxious in mind and heart. The building was kept Open day and night for months. This was only made possible by the Matron s willingness to serve. Her kind and happy personality and spirit of helpfulness make her peculiarly fitted for this position. The success of the Open Church is no doubt due more to her wise and faithful ministry than to any other cause". There have been five pastors of Peoples Church since 1908. Their denominational affiliations are significant in that they have represented three separate denominations. The first pastor, F. W. Corbett was a Methodist: Robert -85- Goldsmith, a Presbyterian; W. S. Steensma, a Congregationalism J. T. Jones, Congregationalist, and the present pastor, N. A. McCune, a Methodist. Reverend Goldsmith and Reverend Jones are no longer living. A few rather isolated facts about these five pastors have been gleaned from clippings from neWSpapers and maga- zines, from personal reports of persons who knew them, and from Church records. They are indicative of the training and ability of these men. Robert Goldsmith was a night reporter on one of New York City's Dailies and was the support of his mother and brothers and sisters, his father having died early. After his work at East Lansing, he was assistant editor of "Collier's" for two Years; founder of the Civic Church, Little Rock, Arkansas; was a lecturer and editor with the League to Enforce Peace, the Rockefeller Foundation and the Interchurch World Movement; a reporter on the staff of the "New York World"; an editorial writer of the "Philadel- phia Evening Bulletin", and was connected with the democratic national committee in the 1920 presidential campaign. William Sidney Steensma was noted for his ability to mix with people. He could hold the interest of the peOple because of his unusual personality. "People loved him" is the way one person spoke of him. He started a leaders clUb among the older boys and combined the boys and girls in Sunday School. He was a good musician and helped to build up the musical part of the Church service. He himself sang in the quartet which he helped to organize. When he resigned - 86 - in 1916, because of his physical condition, the Church gave him a Special resolution of appreciation, calling him "an able, energetic, and progressive preacher, a wise and tactful leader, and a sympathetic and faithful pastor". When he died in 1925, Frederic Spence, "at the request of Mr. Griffith, the president of the Ministerial Association, and on behalf of the ministers of the country and their families" wrote a special article in the "Jackson Tribune", paying tribute to Reverend Steensma. "We may forget Mr. Steensma's name; we cannot escape the influence of his work", Mr. Spence said. It was during Rev. Steensma's ministry that Peoples Church came to be known as "the Church of the Open Door". It was never locked, but was a favorite place for social gatherings and community meetings. Reverend Newell A. Mc Cune, the present pastor of Peoples Church, came to East Lansing in 1917, after a seven years' pastorate in Benton Harbor. He graduated from the agricultural course at M.A.C. in 1901, an outstanding student scholastically. From 1901-1903 he was an instructor in agriculture at Berea College, Kentucky. He received his degree of Bachelor of Divinity at Boston University School of Theology in 1907, and his M.A. degree in 1909 at the same institution. From 1907-1910 he was a pastor at Three Rivers, Michigan. He studied for one term in 1914 at King's College at London. In 1925 , Albion College honored him by conferring on him the degree of Doctor of Divinity. Since then he has studied at Oxford, England for three or four months. He is listed among the 6000 agricultural -87— leaders in the 1925 issue of "Rus", and is a member of the board of directors of "The Community Church Workers of U.S.A.". In the 1931 issue of the "Michigan Annual Confer- ence of Methodist Episc0pal Churches", he is listed (') as having the longest term at one Church (15 years) of any existing minister. (1) Under Dr. Mo Cune's leadership, the Peoples Church has increased from a membership of 255 in 1917, to 1174 in 1931, or an increase of 460 per cent. The church auditorium which had been raised in 1910 at a cost of $17,000, with a seating capacity of 300 had been thought big enough to last several years. By 1917 however, the auditorium was so full that people stood up and even sat on the steps. The "Mc Cune Garage" an empty business building, was rented as a temp- orary auditorium, but even its seating capacity of 600 was soon too small for the rapidly growing congregation. And then the present church was built. In 1926, just before the congregation moved into the new church building. it voted the following Resolutions of Appreciation to Dr. Mc Cune: "Whereas, it is a universally recognized fact that the aforesaid achievements (those connected with the progress of the Church) have been made possible through the leader- ship of our pastor, Reverend N. A. Mc Cune, who has piloted us through the valleys of discouragement as well as over the heights of hOpe and success. He has displayed at all times that wise counsel, that penetrating judgment, that undaunted faith, that true Christian spirit, which has brought us to victory. Therefore, Be it Resolved, that we extend to him at this time our heartfelt appreciation of his services, and pledge him our undivided and affectionate support in the remaining steps toward our goal: (1) Pages 602 - 605. -88... That we extend to him the hOpe that he may continue with us for many years in the enjoyment of the fruits of victory: also, that he may continue to lead us on to still greater victories in community efforts that must follow the completion of our building. Be it Further Resolved, that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of this annual gathering of the church. Submitted in behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Church. Unanimously. E. H. Ryder Chairman M. H. Smith Secretary" In the fall of 1931, when Dr. Mo Cune was contemplating accepting the pastorate of a Church in Detroit, the congre- gation (about 850persons) voted whether or not they wanted him to stay. The fact that 95 per cent of them voted that he be asked to stay is a significant indication of the confidence and loyalty with which the Peoples Church esteemed him. Other names, as that of Dr. R. C. Hughes, the Presby- terian minister who was most instrumental in getting the four denominations to cooperate in supporting a student pastor, of the associate pastors and staff assistants, as well as the leaders among the congregation themselves might be mentioned. But that would savor too much of personalities, and defeat the purpose of this thesis to trace the activities and influence of Peoples Church as a social institution. Co0peration with enterprises planned by its leaders, much personal time, effort and support by the individual members, and assistance by outsiders have all contributed to making PeOples Church the dynamic force it has become today. It has been shown in previous chapters the extent to which small groups meet at PeOples Church. Since each of these -89- groups must have one or more leaders, Peoples Church may be considered as a training ground for developing leaders. eSpecially among the students who gain their first ideas of leadership in their connection with Peoples Church. The influence of these leaders on other institutions outside East Lansing can not be estimated. The student conferences which have brought together student leaders from other colleges have served as factors in the function of Peoples Church as an integrating agency. In the lives of its leaders does a social institution best perpetuate itself into the future. - 90 - Chapter VII INFLUENCE OF PEOPLES CHURCH A. As a Factor in Interdenominationalism There are 29 denominations represented in the member- ship of Peoples Church. In the accompanying Table VI and VII are shown a list of the Church denominations represent- ed in the Church preferences indicated by all the Michigan State College Students registering for the school year 1930-1931, and also the Church affiliations of Hillsdale College. In both cases the Methodists, Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Catholics, Baptists, EpiSCOpalians and Lutherans are in the lead numerically. Of those who indicated no Church preference, Hillsdale College has 5.25 per cent; while Michigan State College has 12.7 per cent and 1.6 per cent merely designating "Protestant". For the students of Michigan State College, the data have been arranged in numbers and percentage of Church preferences by classes as well as for the entire college. In the last two columns, are indicated the numbers and percentages of the 116 students who affiliated with Peoples Church during the same year 1930-1931. Of the 21 denominations represented, 9 were represented among the affiliating students. Among these 116 students, a higher percentage than any denomination except Methodist, had indicated no Church preferences. This may be interpreted as indicating that of this 16.4 per cent the idea of interdenominationalism had a strong appeal. Seventy—three and three-tenths per cent of the Table VI. - Denominational Preferences of Students at Hillsdale College in the Year 1951. fienomination Percent Baptist Methodist Presbyterian Congregational EpISCOpal Catholic Lutheran Christian Science Church of Christ Eva gelical Miscellaneous Church of Brethren Church of God Disciples Friends Salvation Army Unite Brethren Universalist NonsAffiliated 5.25 F‘P‘F‘F‘to (DO 0 0 O O 01 .0. O (JINLUOOUIOUIUI'QUI C3101 NI—‘I—‘NUQOI-‘Ol O .oOH eHH 6.00H emH 0.60H o.OOH man 0.00H men 0.00Heee oo.OOH mamH o.OOH emHn aHeaoe e.eH aH mush a eH mumH Hm HHeH as a.mH mm m.m HHH e.m eam caoz . o a HH e m eH mH mH H.H mH n.H mm commenceoses _ o. H see no sesame .Hm m. H o. H scream .om e. H H. m aeHaaaHap .aH n. H m. H m. m H. n eaeHsnssoos .mH a.H n H. H H. e eanaoeed and ass .eH m. H m. H e. a m. n pmHHemaoaHnw .eH a.eH a m. e neaHem ,eo snepmH .n s. H a. n a. e n. m e. e m. eH aosnsosm eosHsp .eH e. H e.H e m. H o.H e 6. NH m. an HmoHHom arm .mH H.m H e. m m. n a. e n.H eH a. an amHaoh .mH e.H m m.m e n.m nH H.H e e.H a H.H nH m.H me ecssoaom .HH n.e m e. H n.H m m.H m m.H NH m.H an e.H as emHsao so mousse .0H m.» n H.m m o.m HH m.H mH e.n Hm H.m so ooaoHom aaHaaHsao .a m.HH mH e.e n m.e eH H.m mm n.n mm m.n me n.e HnH sesame ooHaoom .m e.H m o.m n e.e a m.n mm e.o an e.m on m.m He n.e oeH an oheSH .e a.H m e.m e o.n om H.m mm e.m en e.m em e.n naH seHHcaoonHam .e e.m oh m.OH aH H.m H H.m an a.e em m.n mm m.a ea e.o QHN anoaem .m a. H a.m a e.o n e.e Hm m.e em m.e me m.m nHH e.a mam oHHoaeeo .e e.m oh n.m nH H.m H n.HH me m.HH He n.0H on m.HH enH o.HH men HnaoHpmmonmaoo .n e.eH an e.e mH o.AH m m.HH es m.OH an «.mH Hm a.mH moH o.mH sen soasceaaaosm .m e.He m4 N.AH em e.am nH m.mH as e.mm emH m.mm oaH o.mm new o.em .nHm emHeoaemm .H .m .eem .eoa .eesu .eea .ooam .Hoa Hm. .aom mm. .pom mm .aom en. .som .H .HneH s omaH snow one sH oucHHoo 3.3m magnum...” mnHudoppw Romany gas-95m (Ho oodoaowoam noel-£6 1 13> opr-H- - 91 - affiliating students belonged to the four major denominat- ions of Peoples Church, whereas for the student body as a whole, only 55.7 per cent were Methodists, Presbyterians, Congregationalists or Baptists. There is a higher percentage of affiliating students than entire student body among the Methodists, Presbyterians, Baptists, Church of Christ, Reformed and "no-preference" students, with a smaller percentage than entire student body among the Congregation- alists, Catholics, Episc0palians and Lutherans. It might be eXpected that the Episc0palians and Catholics would be fewer because of their greater divergence in ceremonies of Church service than the more informal denominations, but why the Congregationalists and Lutherans are of smaller prOportion is a more difficult fact to eXplain unless it be that the number 116 is a very small number on which to base tendencies. It is a significant fact that about the same percentage of students seek their original Church affiliations through~ out their entire college course. The one notable exception is among the seniors, when a larger pronortion than for the other classes are Reformed and Baptist, and a smaller prOportion are Methodist. The denominations represented in the general Church membership are shown in Tables VIII and IX. Do people change their Church affiliations when they leave Peoples Church from those they had on entering Peoples Church? The accompanying tables seem to indicate that in most cases there is no appreciable change. 0f the persons leaving Table VIII. - Denominations from Which Present Peoples Church Members Have Transferred Their Letters. Eenominetions Members Percent 1. Methodist 148 45.6 2. Presbyterian 72 3.2 3. Congregational 44 13.1 4. Baptist 33 10.0 5. Community 4 1.2 6. Episcopalian 4 1.2 7. Lutheran 4 - 1.2 8. Reformed 4 1.2 9. United Churches 4 1.2 10. Evangelical 3 .9 11. Church of Christ 2 .6 12. United Brethren l .3 13. Friends 1 1 .3 Total 324 100.00 4 Major Divisions 3 297 or 95.05 Table IX. - Denominations Entered by Peoples Church Hembers Dismissed in the Years 1911 - 1931. Denominations Lembers Percent 1. Methodist 134 43.7 2. Presbyterian 73 23.7 3. Congregational 64 20.8 4. Baptist 6 2.0 5. Community 6 2.0 6. Federated 6 2.0 7. Evangelical 5 1.6 8. United Churches 4 1.3 9. hurch of Christ 3 1.0 10. Reformed 3 1.0 11. Peoples 1 .3 12. moravian 1 .3 .13. Christian Science 1 .3 Total 307 100.00 4 Enjoy Denominations have 289 or 90.2;, - 92 - Peoples Church during the years 1911 to 1931, whose new denominational affiliations have been given to PeOples Church, there are Just as many denominations entered as there are major denominations recorded for present Peoples Church members. Nine denominations: Methodist, Presbyterian, Congregational. Baptist, Community, Evangelical, United Churches, Church of Christ and Reformed appear on both tables. A larger percentage have entered Congregational Churches than are now present in Peoples Church members, and a smaller number have entered Baptist Churches than are represented at PeOples Churches in 1931. Besides these two denominations, no appreciable change is noticed. B. Influence of Peoples Church as it Effects the State and Nation. The counties from which the 116 affiliate students came is shown on Chart IX. Forty-two out of the 83 counties in Michigan, and 6 states are represented among these students. As might be eXpected, the counties nearest Ingham County contributed the greatest number. The counties represented by the present general Church membership who have transferred their letters to Peoples Church are shown on Chart X. and the states from which they have come on Chart XI. The counties and states to which Peoples Church members have gone from 1911 to 1931 are shown on Charts XII and XIII. In all cases, there is indication that the nearer counties and states have received and contributed the greatest number of Peoples Church members, but that most of the counties in Michigan, and most of the states J).'s+ri6..+ron 67 Coccmlvres 3,..4. Sign“; of S'f-mien-I-s W A’Ft‘l‘.3~ I-l'hs’ “10"]. J POof/OJ cbl-Ll'tfi I. ll {'5‘ S¢AOO( 71". 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