Christian Science Church in The Dalles
Christian Science Society of The Dalles, Oregon
Our Church History
Built upon the rock of Christ, Truth
In the year 1892 Christian Science had its inception in The Dalles through a remarkable case of healing of one who, imbued with a desire to comprehend the spiritual meaning of the truth which had wrought such a wonderful change, at once began the study of Christian Science. Another healing soon followed. In 1897 regular services were held at a private home, but before long there was need for larger quarters.
In 1904 First Church of Christ, Scientist was organized with eleven charter members. In 1907 it once more became necessary to hold services at the home of one of the members, and the need for a Christian Science church home presented itself so strongly that at once a building fund was started. In the spring of 1909 a lot was given by one of the members, and immediately the contract was let for the erection of a church at a cost of $1,836.
This building was completed in the fall 1909. On Oct. 31 the first service was held in the new edifice and on Jan. 3, 1915, it was dedicated.
FIRST CHURCH of CHRIST, SCIENTIST The Dalles, Oregon circa 1920
In 1921 the site for the present larger building was purchased. In 1927 the members received a substantial gift, after complying with the requirements accompanying the gift— the necessity for raising an equivalent amount with which to build the structure. This requirement was fulfilled in 1932, despite the period of depression. Now on a search for an accomplished architect to fulfill the unique vision of this church edifice, the membership voted to hire Archibald N. Torbitt (1883-1958), a Christian Scientist who had designed the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Anacortes in 1929.
The church was completed in the fall of 1932. For the next two years services were held in the Sunday school room. Later, available funds made possible the purchase of pews for the main auditorium. Special dedicatory services were held on Sunday morning, January 1, 1939, at First Church of Christ, Scientist, The Dalles, Oregon.
The Mediterranean-style First Church of Christ, Scientist that Torbitt designed in 1930 for The Dalles, Oregon, continues to serve the function for which it was built.
Location
701 Washington St,
The Dalles, OR
97058
Contact
Services
Church Service
Sunday 10 am
Sunday School
Sunday 10 am
Testimony Meeting:
Last Weds of each month 7 pm
