Sunday, January 29, 1899, marked a very important event in the history of a small but loyal band of Christian Scientists living near Sutherland, Florida. On that day they dedicated to the service of the ever-present God a little church which stands in the midst of a pine forest, and, as far as we can learn, it is the first Christian Science church dedication in the state.
The building is twenty-four by forty feet; well lighted; wainscoted in curly pine, oil finish; walls and ceiling tinted, and on the platform is a simple but exceedingly pretty reading-desk, also pine. Over the entrance is a porch, rustic in design, but effective and appropriate. The outside is to be painted white, and the thought is to put out flowering shrubs, roses, orange trees, and many other beautiful flowers, thus "making the wilderness blossom like the rose."
The lesson was especially prepared for the occasion. At the conclusion of the lesson, Mr. T. H. Bell, one of the directors, gave a short sketch of the organization and growth of the society. Ten years ago four families living about Sutherland became interested in Christian Science, and met at one of their homes; later on they built an arbor in the woods and held services there, and afterwards they rented a hall in town. He spoke of their manifold trials, and added, "We have a membership of thirty-two, and have proved that God is with us. This little church here in these pine woods amply meets all our needs, and it is paid for."
