Twenty churches or groups are recorded here, with more urban success than in the country. Grande Prairie may be the youngest church of the Churches of Christ. It is the result of the shining task of one woman who began to pioneer in 1904.

      Twentieth Century: Nanton, Grande Prairie, Ardley, Erskine, Alix, Ponoka, Lake deMay, Clyde, Lethbridge (First); Calgary (Central); Edmonton, Hanna, Purple Springs, Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Vulcan, Calgary (Tuxedo), Lethbridge (Central), Calgary (Park Hill), Wrentham.

      Broadway is a school district, with the adjoining town of Nanton as its postoffice in the Macleod area. It is a community largely settled by Missouri people, who came about 1904, during the American rush to good farms in our Western lands. The Montgomerys and their kind were the most numerous. A Sunday school naturally was first formed, and soon after a church of twelve members, with C. E. Montgomery as elder, A. A. Montgomery and R. R. Montgomery, deacons. Its aim was to reproduce a New Testament church in a rural community, at a time when pioneering conditions prevailed and where lack of transportation facilities made the problem of attendance difficult. (Such is a summary of M. B. Ryan's report in Canadian Disciple, in June, 1927, when he warmly introduced these Missouri brethren to Canadian fellowship.) The church got along in a brave sort of way amidst the stresses of winter and summer; its S.S. in being, and seldom missing the breaking of bread, for there were capable elders to attend to that. H. H. Cox was an example of faithfulness. He was a graduate of Transylvania College of the Bible (Kentucky). He gave some assistance to the Ponoka group in P. Baker's time. For long years he was associated with the co-operative work of Alberta Christian Missionary Society, from its organization in 1909 (of which he was its recording secretary) until his death. Besides, he was a liberal giver to its funds (see Grande Prairie) and cleft a trust fund for the continuance of the work. In 1927, he and H. I. Montgomery were the elders. There was never a large membership. The church had no regular preacher, but held on its witnessing course, with the occasional help of preachers and evangelists. This was supplied for some considerable time (perhaps not in one term alone) by J. W. Jenkins, of Aldersyde, who for some time was the energetic president and beloved leader of Alberta mission activities. Bro. Jenkins passed on [644] and also most of those mentioned herein. Broadway church never built itself a house, though it was conscious of the need; but whenever the challenge became acute, the resolution to abide as they were was sustained (in their schoolhouse home) and do more for the cause of missions. Milestone, in Saskatchewan, also had the same viewpoint. These aims suggest the fidelity of the cause in the West, and it has not allowed its aims to become worn down by time or social conditions. (This footnote to a pioneer church in substance in Canadian Disciple, November, 1929.)

      "Scattered Disciples" has been a term applied to many who came West and seemed to get lost in its great spaces. Many of them have been 'shepherded' by M. B. Ryan, Jasper Bogue, and others. The group at Grande Prairie (which is on the Alaska highway, Peace River) first gathered around a Mrs. Johnston, who had come with her family near Lacombe, about 1904. She stood alone, as far as human fellowship in Christ is concerned, for many years; and her faith led her to set up a Bible school and have preaching in the schoolhouse when practicable. The group has grown and now, amidst this new outreach in Canada's population centres (or trails), they have built a suitable tabernacle for public worship. The public use of the building began in 1946.

      Some of this is learned from the Christian Chronicle of the A.B.C. in June, 1946. All of which proves that the spirit of Abraham still lives--moving towards a Christian realization. The Alberta Christian Missionary Society (1909) has contributed $500 from its trust funds to the cost of the building. Frank Rempel, of the Alberta Bible College, began a ministry there in 1946, but has since offered himself for the establishment of a Bible College in India.

      Having a population of around three hundred, Ardley is situated in the Red Deer district. This early Albertan church arose out of the evangelistic spirit and deeds of an Ontario farmer-preacher named Samuel Woolner (see Marsville, Ont.). He came West from Ontario in 1908 and held a meeting which made organization desirable. He had the assistance of old Ontario friends--Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Simpson, who had preceded him by a year. O. D. Thomas also preached for several months. Additions to the group were Mrs. L. M. Doughty, Mr. and Mrs. D. Smithman, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Jestin, all of whom made a distinct contribution as charter members. The church at last report had a membership of about forty-five, [645] of whom thirty are resident members. Evangelistic meetings from time to time have contributed to growth. These were held by H. Gordon Bennett, W. L. McIlvaine, R. H. Simpson, Charles W. Simpson, of Edmonton, and J. H. Deans, of Vulcan. This was done independently of any board or outside financial assistance.

      Mrs. R. V. Romig organized the women in a missionary organization in 1917. It is likely that this key organization has kept missions before the group, and financial assistance has been given to certain organizations of their choice. Ardley has the record of having begun its Bible school a year before the organization of the church. Herein lies an idea of method, practised in other parts as well. A practical part of the church's service is that of the women's sewing circle, which assists to meet needs as they arise. The ministry of the church has been maintained by local effort, in which L. M. Doughty has at times served. The principal mainstay has been the loyal contribution of the Simpson family. R. H. Simpson may be said to have been continuously the church's servant. His son, Percy R. Simpson, was educated at a western university and entered into Christian service. Much was expected from his life work. But, regrettably, early in World War II, he became a casualty in Europe. As superintendent of missions in Alberta, M. B. Ryan naturally assisted the young or growing congregation to a fuller life.

      A railway opened up this district in 1905-6, when settlement began to boom. In 1908 Erskine was but a village of less than two hundred, but the territory was supplied with ambitious settlers, and events show that as far as religion is concerned Erskine was awake. Bro. G. C. Bergman, an American Disciple settler and business man, was alert to the, needs. There were churches, also a Community church, in which Bro. Bergman directed the S.S. He had an expectation that population would soon require more religious facilities, and he sought to get the community people interested in evangelism, but without success. He was the type of man who considers no place is quite right unless it has within its borders a 'Church of Christ'. At his own expense he brought evangelist J. A. L. Romig and the Cave sisters, as singers; these were working under the direction of the American Christian Missionary Society. A small place has less competition to present the gospel than a city, and there the innate human need for religion comes more often to the fore. (That is one reason why the Disciples were first a rural people.) The evangelist began in March, 1909, and continued for some seven weeks. One can sense the interest that must have been created [646] when for the first time hundreds of people heard Restoration principles enunciated out of the New Testament. Most of the seventy-three converts were by primary obedience, some were from other groups (one was a minister); and four were from the Alberta region needing shepherding. A church was at once organized and money was ready to supply a building. That year a $3,000 property was in being, by the aid of a Church Extension loan of $600, (paid off by 1941).

      The first church building owned by an Albertan congregation was dedicated on October 24, 1909, by evangelist H. G. Bennett, assisted by L. M. Doughty. Members from a distance were present to rejoice at the initial success in Erskine, among them O. E. Payne, from Hanna. The young church was supplied with local leaders who were capable of leadership and not always was a preacher present. The following young preachers from the province gained experience here: O. D. Thomas, (son of another preacher), L. M. Doughty, and Percy Simpson, son of pioneer R. H. Simpson, of Ardley. Percy Simpson received ordination at Erskine, after education in preparation at an American College. His brother Merald also became a preacher. Thus it was a wise portion of this prairie church's policy to direct its young people towards education and leadership--an effort not too obvious in other parts of Canada. In 1936 the church sent Waldo Roppell to Johnson Bible college, also Deloris Bergman to Minneapolis Bible College. Another ministerial student was Meredith Bergman, who with Waldo Roppell, shared the ministry of the church around 1940. (He is--(1944)--in Butler University and preaching in Plainfield, Ind.). John Bergman, after college preparation, is serving Calgary Central (1944). Virgil Swanson is another Erskine boy who entered the ministry, serving in Iowa.

      To go back a little, the occasional leadership of provincial evangelist M. B. Ryan was frequently the cause of rejoicing and inspiration, as he came on periodical visits to preach. This was from April, 1911, onward. The church made most of its gains through evangelism, directed as it was able through special preachers, of which the work of the C. L. Organ company, in 1919, is an example. The recorder of the church, Mrs. C. A. Whetsell, states that in February, 1942, the membership had reached the mark of two hundred and thirty-two (of course many of these were non-resident or removed). But no Western point ever holds anything like a big fraction of its incomers. In April, 1941, elder C. A. Whetsell asserted the church was maintaining its fellowship, and what could be better than that. Removals [647] have reduced the local membership to about twenty-five. In order to illustrate the warm and energetic interest that always seems to have been at the bottom here, the remark of G. C. Bergman may be quoted as he gives them: "That investment was the best in my life, as all my children have made good confession in Erskine church. I had rather my children sat at Lord's table than at any other table in the world."

      In January, 1910, H. Gordon Bennett of the American board, held a meeting at this point and apparently it was ripe for a forward movement, for before be left, he 'gathered' a group of thirty-eight members. The community may have been affected by the Erskine church in the neighborhood. The preacher of that group--L. M. Doughty--a pioneer also in the province--took Alix on himself and gave it half-time preaching. W. J. Brown, and likely other Erskine preachers also helped. Bro. Bennett referred to the rather large number of incomers from the U.S.A. and invited members to consider their location at any of the following places, where churches were being established; names of ministers come first and those of leaders second: Ponoka, P. Baker, W. H. Shaft; Erskine, L. M. Doughty, G. E. Bergman; Alix, L. M. Doughty, W. F. Hargrove; Blackfolds, A. Santmier, L. A. Hill; Okotoks, (union) O. B. Stockford; Nanton, C. E. Montgomery; Vermilion (union) H. Locke Kempton, H. N. Stephens; Innisfree, G. W. Puckette; Calgary, Dr. A. E. Freeman; Coal Banks, R. H. Simpson; Lake deMay, Ernest Emery.

      The list of places follows, where there were no churches, but members were said to be living there: Lethbridge, C. S. Farrow; Carstairs, H. W. Wood; Edmonton, J. W. Reid, twenty-one Griebach St.; High River, S. W. Dick; Battle Lake (timber district) O. D. Thomas; Strathcona, D. L. Chormley; Camrose, Mrs. Clara McWhiter; Castor, O. E. Payne (who was a preacher).

      The source of this interesting early data from Alberta is copied from a column in the Maritime paper, The Christian, of St. John, N.B., March, 1910. M. B. Ryan held a tent meeting in the summer of 1911, and states that no organization was effective in his time.

      Ponoka is a little town of 1,900 people, on a railway, in the Wetaskiwin section. Here shortly after the beginning of the century an Ontario preacher, named Percival Baker, freely preached for at least twelve years in a rented hall. Bro. Baker had received training at the College of the Bible, [648] Lexington, Ky., and had served in Canada at Rodney and Everton. He had a family to support and possessed of a fine public spirit, he chose the West as a place where he could best serve his generation. He became a representative of the United Farmers of Alberta and in that sphere he also represented His Master. Public life beckoned, and he became a legislator. Death then regrettably took him, by accident, thus cutting short a career that promised much. He preached in Ponoka as a voluntary contribution to the cause he loved; and Mrs. Baker aided him by conducting a primary S.S., which she also carried on for some fifteen years after his death: in this aided by her daughter. This school was often referred to as "our most northerly Bible School". Some were gained as followers, but the group was largely gathered from former members of American churches who were farmers in the district, then a pioneer section. P. Baker and a valued associate in the work, H. H. Cox, of Broadway, were responsible for the founding of the Alberta Christian Missionary Society. Of such men as these, M. B. Ryan, an Albertan pioneer also, said "They possess the shepherd-heart. That is at the bottom of much of our Albertan work." He was here speaking mostly of P. Baker, and his loyal wife, as foundation layers. And valiant builders are required to follow faithful founders.

      The columns of the Christian Messenger of March, 1910, reported "a revival at Lake deMay schoolhouse, sixteen days old and fourteen added. We feel that the Lord has been with us. Our evangelist, J. T. Spurrier. We are now perfectly organized for the Master's cause--Alfred E. Nelson". Lake deMay was situated near Camrose.

      Here in brief is the fact of an immigrant who brings not only population but his church's religion with him. Alfred E. Nelson was of Scandinavian origin, and as the head of a small colony, he came to Alberta determined to plant again the gospel which he had received in his own land. As M. B. Ryan remarked, in a report, "he heard the voice of the Chief Shepherd saying 'Feed my Lambs'! In the log school that arose, he gathered his flock and instituted a school for the study of the Word, and set the table of the Lord as the centre of their interest. There was never much preaching there in the popular sense; there was living instruction as the Lord's days came and went. Once in a while a meeting would be held when a minister could be found." Ernest Emery served as preacher for a time.

      Alfred Nelson has long since passed on. In 1923 the membership was about nineteen and the organization has ceased since. [635]

      A family of two from Prince Edward Island was a nucleus here, and M. B. Ryan after coming to Alberta in 1911, held a meeting and developed a group, but without organization. A small building was erected, our second in the province. The place was distant from other points, and when Bro. Ryan withdrew the work was abandoned. Another religious body secured the building.

      The first step towards the founding of this church was the inauguration of a Christian Bible School on August 11, 1911. Lethbridge then was a city of some 12,000 inhabitants and was an objective for the Christian forces then being directed by M. B. Ryan, missionary superintendent for Alberta. In his early labors he was aided by such workers as C. S. Farrow and Mrs. Farrow, Mrs. VanBlarcom, Mrs. A. C. Price and Clarence Price. Mrs. Farrow's home sheltered the Bible School. Others helping greatly were Kenneth and Eugene Farrow and Dora E. Fitch, the latter being first school superintendent. Later, Mrs. M. M. Dunsworth acted. Forward efforts at evangelising were first attempted by E. S. Clutter, who arrived on the scene in May, 1912 and gave his services for eight weeks, with the [649] result that a church of thirty members was organized. The Bible School was also enlarged. Bro. Ryan later secured J. B. Pickel and in July he was called to be minister, dividing his work between Lethbridge and Champion. A year later finances had so improved that Bro. Pickel was able to give three-fourths of his time to Lethbridge and strides were taken. In April, 1914, the Bible School had increased to over a hundred enrolled, with several organized classes. An active Society of Christian Endeavour was called into being. In July, 1914, the church reported thirty-two baptisms, this being partly the work of J. S. Raum, of Montana, who was called to hold a revival in June. These efforts indicate the earnest type of effort, in the hope that a strong church might be built up. At first, self-support received the financial effort necessary, but as circumstances permitted, the new church took on a co-operative outlook and a genuine interest in home and foreign missions. A Women's Missionary Society was in being also. This aim was continued as far as possible during the church's state of efficient witnessing.

      The church had outgrown the old Caledonian hall and the congregation fixed its aims on obtaining the use of the former Wesley church building. On May 3, 1914 the church held its first meeting in the building. Bro. Pickel resigned the task in April, 1915. He was credited with effective work during his nearly three years of service. The congregation was on the outreach and three years after organization began to hold services in a school at River Bottom. Mention should be made of other early workers, amongst them the Dunsworth family. Here Dr. M. M. Dunsworth gave outstanding local service. Later he became chairman of the Alberta board, and his removal to Edmonton gave added strength to the cause there.

      W. G. Asher was called to be pastor following J. B. Pickel, but served only from April to August, 1915. Just then the question of union with the local Baptist body arose, but nothing came of it. The church went on with its fellowship meetings, Bible School, Christian Endeavor, and mid-week prayer meetings. These activities were never abated, with or without pastor, except briefly for the C.E. one summer. In November, 1915, S. Regan, from California (who claimed to be of our group as a preacher) was engaged as minister, but whilst on leave in January for a month he decided to remain where he had gone. This bit of depression was removed in the Spring of 1916 when Jasper Bogue and Aldis Wright, of Oregon City, Ore., were secured for a meeting which cost $221; but the money was thought to be well spent, such was the spiritual uplift. The Alberta board assisted in this effort. In January, 1917, through the American Christian Missionary [650] Society, the church secured J. A. Andrews, of Missouri, as pastor. He was a good preacher but his wife's health suffered in Alberta, requiring another resignation. The church's next choice of Oliver L. Curtis, of Gladstone, Ore. proved to be a happy one. He came on the recommendation of the A.C.M.S. in October, 1917. He was a fine preacher and used the Bible school as an adjunct. Then owing to a change in the laws regarding taxation on property used for church purposes without ownership of same, there was added an increase in rent from $15 monthly to $75. In the Spring of 1918, Howard Fegan and wife, of Eugene, Ore., held a meeting with twenty additions. Bro. Curtis worked heartily with the evangelist and there was much faithful teaching on the subject of Christian baptism. This, while convincing and attractive to some hearers, was heavily discounted by counter efforts and acceptance was not generally secured. Bro. Curtis was with the church until August, 1920. During this period the church acquired an organ and pews at a cost of $1,375. This financial load was somewhat heavy for this number of supporters. Bro. Curtis resigned after two years and nine months of service, with thirty-nine baptisms recorded. He became the successor of evangelist M. B. Ryan, who had been the Alberta leader for some years. Bro. Ryan's co-operation always added dignity and spiritual vigor on all his visits to Lethbridge. Another discouragement must be recorded, just to reveal 'history', however it occurred. J. J. Franklin, an Australian, came from Illinois to stay a year as pastor; but his larger interest proved to be the making of a world tour as preacher, and though a good preacher, he shortly resigned to go to England. Charles R. Howard, an Australian, then came on the field in 1921, recommended by the American Christian Missionary Society. He was a capable preacher, and held a class in personal evangelism; but the task, for some reason seemed to be overwhelming and he could not face it. Local historians record that decisions were seeming harder to obtain. Indications seemed to suggest bolder moves for attention and some efforts looking towards a new building were made. A wide appeal to the Brotherhood secured but $140., and to add to difficulties, a serious crop shortage occurred in southern Alberta. However, here, as elsewhere, the church carried on hopefully. In 1922 John S. Mill, of the United Christian Missionary Society, assisted in raising money and planning a new building. A loan of $2,500 was secured from the Church Extension department. The Society allotted $1,000 to the support of a capable minister, and R. J. Westaway, of Yellow Grass, was secured, arriving before Christmas, 1922. He was to receive a salary of $2,200 and moving expenses, jointly shared by church and [651] Society. The work on the new building went forward and in May, 1923, Bro. Mill dedicated it. Bro. Westaway's services were of the active variety and outreach was made to a schoolhouse and to Wrentham for preaching services. This went on during 1924, and in September, 1925, Bro. Westaway relinquished his task as pastor after two years and ten months' ministry, with 70 baptisms to his credit. The United Society having diminished its aid from $1,000 to $600. in two years, was a factor necessarily in this. However, Bro. Chas. W. Clarke, a fine spiritually-minded preacher, was secured as minister in December 1925. He carried on his ministry, whilst stress had to be laid on raising funds to pay off a mortgage of $1,600 and interest. But the financial burden to a group then insufficient in numbers to sustain the load, became too great, and Bro. Clarke resigned in July, 1927. He had sixteen baptisms in eighteen months.

      Efforts at the provincial convention later resulted in a call to C. H. Phillips--then of Los Angeles, Cal.--at a salary of $2,000 and moving expenses. The United Society became sponsor for $480 annually. In January, 1929, the Canadian Disciple reporter tells of forward-looking conditions, owing to a strong financial campaign in progress along with vigorous presentation of 'first principles', and $10. had been given towards the All-Canada work. A preaching service at Coaldale was begun. In February, 1929, "reporter" tells of forty-seven baptisms during the year; $1,100 paid off building debt, and a gift of $482 to missions (unstated). In May, 1921, a meeting was held by C. R. L. Vawter, and later one by Bro. Kellems. During these years the church had become sponsor through Bro. Phillips, of the Alberta Bible College, begun at Lethbridge. In 1934, the same sources reveal apparently an increased membership. Also in 1935 there was growth in numbers. In 1938, the church entertained the convention and entire self-support was voluntarily undertaken. Following this, a vigorous campaign for debt raising succeeded in lifting the mortgage held by Church Extension. But some spirit was at work by which a disagreement culminated as to church policies previously maintained. The sorrowful thing happened--a division of unity and action. One group removed to N. Lethbridge under the old name, and a group remained under C. Phillips, which later adopted the name "Central Christian Church". The removing group carried on for several years, first under William Ransom, and later by W. H. Sliter, who retired in 1936; and all work ceased in 1937. During 1937 also, Bro. Phillips resigned as head of the College and ceased to minister to Central [652] church. Such details as have escaped from a cordon of Christian charity indicate that a terrific blow was struck at Christ's body in both church and community. Such occurrences always mean that numbers leave the church never to return. The chronicler offers no judgment save the plain and obvious one: that anything obtained at the cost of Christian fellowship is dubious and likely dangerous. In this sad case the head of the Church knoweth.

      With the opening of this century, when Americans by tens of thousands were migrating to the fertile Canadian West, it was natural that the American Christian Missionary Society should expand its long series of aids to needy Canadian fields. It sent Bro. M. B. Ryan, veteran Maritime preacher, to Alberta, beginning April, 1911. What followed in Calgary is a monument to his energy and Christian devotion. On Jan. 12, 1913, he called together a group at the home of J. B. McIntyre and conducted regular worship services there until February 9, when a hall was engaged. On March 2 a partial organization was effected with Wm. Gier, John Munroe and Goldwin S. Lord as deacons; Mrs. McIntyre, treasurer, and G. S. Lord as clerk. During the first year fifty-one members were gathered and in 1945 seven are still members (their names indicated thus *) as follows: J. A. and Mrs. Munroe, J. B. McIntyre, Mrs. Flora McIntyre, Margaret Currie, Ella Currie, James A. and Mrs. Currie, D. W. Currie, Wm. Gier*, Mrs. A. Gier*, O. B. Stockford, Mrs. Joanna Gier, Mrs. S. A. Jackson, Mrs. Jennie Eberly, Mrs. Emily Lyon, Goldwin S. Lord, A. McNeill, M. B. Ryan, Mrs. Ada M. Ryan, Anna L. Eberly, Miss. R. W. Gier, W. A. and Mrs. Stephens, Edna Stephens, Mrs. F. E. Adams, Minnie Gier, Caroline Murphy, J. F. McLachlan, M. McLachlan,, Mamie Gier*, C. L. Quackenbush, J. H. Patterson, Mrs. McLachlan, Mrs. G. VanSickle*, Estella M. VanSickle*, Ruby VanSickle*, Cora VanSickle, Mrs. J. S. Robertson, Nathaniel Walker, Mrs. Clara B. Walker, Donald Walker, Mrs. E. N. Richards, Ruth Richards, Kete Eberly', Harold Steves, Sam Richards, Mrs. F. W. Crandall, Mrs. J. R. Royce*, Cyrus Eberly, Miss M. McLachlan. (The losses help to explain the difficulties of keeping intact religious groups amidst population changes.)

      In July, 1913, Bethany Bible school was begun in a vacant store and later combined with regular services. In Nov. 1914, a Methodist building was rented where services were carried on until the completion of a new building. In 1920, the church was incorporated under the name "Central Christian Church", to avoid conflicting with another church styled "The [653] Church of Christ"; but in March, 1936, the name "Central Church of Christ" was chosen. In August, 1920, a parsonage and lot were purchased. It was intended that a building should be erected. In this effort the church was assisted by a gift of $10,000 from the United Christian Missionary Society and a loan from the Extension department. The building was erected and on July 16, 1922, it was dedicated by John Booth of the Church Extension Board. Such was the ambitious start of Calgary Central, owing to propitious circumstances in the Canadian West. The purchased parsonage turned out to be unsuitable and it was sold and the proceeds applied to church debt. A field so changing as a Canadian city, with growing pains, in the West required some strenuous promotion, and evangelism by the best speakers obtainable was resorted to. The first meeting was held by the Organ Company, in 1918, during the ministry of W. J. Johnston. In September, 1926, John H. Wells, All-Canada evangelist, held one of his greatest meetings in a tent. There were one hundred and sixty-one confessions of the Name; but very few of them were citizens of Calgary; yet there was some gain. From time to time other evangelists held meetings, such as those by Jasper Bogue, and pastors such as brethren Isaacson, Chas. W. Simpson, of Edmonton, C. H. Phillips, of Lethbridge, and secretary John S. Mill.

      In July, 1927, great impetus was given to the Alberta convention (held at Central) by the presence of brethren from all over Canada to participate in the All-Canada Conference. This convention, and the Wells meeting, occurred during the ministry of R. J. Westaway. Elder Josiah R. Royce was chosen as the representative to attend the Popular Hill Convention, Ontario, in May, 1922, when "All-Canada" was formed. Bro. Royce was active as elder for over twenty years. He died March 26, 1943, three days before his ninetieth birthday.

      The church has had some long-service officers. Dr. Siemens was elder and chairman of board for eight years. J. A. Mitchell followed as chairman for thirteen years and he is (in 1945) in his sixteenth year as elder. W. H. Dickieson served as deacon for several years and is in his thirteenth year as elder (1945). In 1941 he became chairman of the board and still occupies that position. L. E. Pearson has served the important post of treasurer for over twenty years. For twenty-three or more years Mrs. Estella VanSickle Briggs has served as pianist.

      Fourteen pastors have labored to build Central church, exclusive of [654] some early speakers such as Percival Baker and O. B. Stockford. Their names are:

      Of the foregoing list four have been part time preachers--the first (G. Hayden Stewart) being Western representative of All-Canada, and the last three students (later instructors in the Alberta Bible College).

      Central Church has had its share of difficulties and discouragements. It has been under a constant strain from removals; on several occasions more than half its strength seemed to disappear in the space of a few months. There have been times when for many months the church was without a minister. A Bible school is maintained with a membership around fifty. The church has contributed to All-Canada co-operative movement and some to independent missions. The women of the church are organized as a Woman's Council, doing what is generally done by the "Ladies' Aid". The women of Calgary in October, 1941, formed a Sisterhood of the Churches of Christ, in which the following joined: Central, Tuxedo Park, Park Hill, Church of Christ. This fine aim has the effect of increasing the fellowship between churches.

      Elders, deacons, deaconesses have also organized for similar purposes. All this should point the way to a unity that would be complete. The presidents of the Sisterhood to date have been Mrs. A. Weston (Church of Christ), Mrs. J. M. Brodie, (Tuxedo Park), Mrs. G. Eaton, (Central), Mrs. H. C. Chapman, (Tuxedo Park).

      Like some other fortunate churches, Central has succeeded in liquidating its debt. This was done under the leadership, first of E. P. Benoit and completed by John Bergman. The long effort to establish a church in an urban centre is familiar to other cities, all of which bear similar burdens. Since when was it that churches of God could become established without more than mere taking of thought? Co-operation and fellowship amongst all the churches in Alberta sharing in the heritage of the Restoration movement, would do much to aid the cause of Christian unity, for which all Christian churches now plead. [655]

      It was Christian co-operation in organized service that brought the church of Christ to Alberta's capital. From M. B. Ryan, superintendent of missions for the province, came word to the East through the Christian Messenger, in its May issue, 1913, that church organization had been in being since March 17, 1913. Some twenty-four persons, out of a charter membership of thirty-two, met in the Y.M.C.A. hall on that date and were organized through Bro. Ryan's aid. Many were members now resident, from previous affiliation in Ontario and the Maritime, and some from the American States; and a number from a previously existing congregation with a conservative viewpoint; and both these latter groups have always been with the church and contributed to its growth. Our American brethren in Edmonton were a part of the migration from the States in the century's early days, which added to our prosperity, and theirs.

      As one surveys this effort along the backward track and realizes (perhaps from similar experiences elsewhere) the courage and fortitude needed to produce permanent Christian fruitage in a new and isolated field--there comes with it a sense of gratitude that hard things can be done by consecrated effort. The young church met in halls for a year, and then was able to move to its present site--a purchased church building, in June, 1914. This move was signalized by holding the provincial convention there in July, and, of course, this being host has frequently happened since.

      The church seems to have rapidly attained complete organization. Naturally too, it had to look for a helping hand for such an effort, and found it, first in the American Christian Missionary Society, and its successor, the United Christian M. Society. (This financial aid during thirty years has amounted to $19,000.) A Bible school was first initiated, with thirty-eight enrolled, under J. E. Wilkinson, superintendent. In a review in 1939, records then showed a membership of one hundred and seven. J. S. Miles was superintendent for sixteen years; and since then, M. J. MacKenzie, M. W. Macdonald, Cecil Simpson, and Dr. Dunsworth served in turn. A Christian Endeavor Society was formed in early years. Later on it helped to provide leadership. Other forms appeared, such as junior and Senior C.E., the C.G.I.T. and C.S.E.T. groups, in wide co-operation with others. A Young people's group appeared, with Betty Green as leader. August, 1913, saw a women's group organized under the old name of C.W.B.M., led by Mrs. Morton L. Rose. She was succeeded by Mrs. J. B. Thompson, who served until her death in 1936. A Ladies Aid was organized under Mrs. Ralph [656] Harris, in April, 1913; and this was succeeded on March, 30, 1920, by the Loyal Women's group, of which Mrs. B. L. Wilcox was the first president. Mrs. O. B. Ooley held office for sixteen years in this group, whose contributions have become notable. Other evidence of congregational activity is what it did with a building needing alterations. A basement and a heating plant were a first necessity, and these were gradually attained, along with extra Sunday School room. Pews came as a substitute for chairs. Since 1938, when a memorable 25th anniversary was celebrated, money and effort have been provided to renovate and adorn the auditorium, to provide a choir alcove, a two-manual reed organ with blower, venetian blinds, a dignified baptistry, and a centralized Lord's table. A balcony for hearers also came, increasing the seating capacity by one hundred and seventy-five. Much of this building program was stimulated by Clyde W. Croft. Completing all is the acquirement of a duplex residence for the minister, near the church. There is no building debt.

      In 1927, through the Canadian Disciple, Bro. Ryan stated that the strong missionary spirit of the church was manifest in that it shared its minister with such points as Clyde, Stony Plain, Poplar Hill and school districts adjoining and is a contributor to our organized agencies for the spread of the gospel, including, of course, the provincial board and the All-Canada Committee. The fortunes of the church have been subject to severe check owing to migrations in the 1930-5 period. Brethren and friends from Ontario and the Maritime provinces have assisted in building up a permanent membership; but the word "transitory" has frequently been applied to membership conditions at Edmonton. An estimate made in 1943 showed that through thirty years of existence five hundred and forty-two persons were received into membership, of whom two hundred and seventy-one were baptized. In 1943 the membership is reported as resident one hundred and twenty-one, non-resident one hundred and seven, of whom twenty-six are enlisted in Armed Forces. Edmonton at the present time faces apparently great promise of gain in population permanently after the War, due to the opening up of the north, and the fact that it is situated on the world air-traffic highway. This opportunity will provide a real challenge to the church and both our East and West will be eager to see something greater built upon the courage and sacrifice of the past.

      The ministers of Edmonton have furnished much of the potency of the cause. Morton L. Rose was first, coming from Elliott, Iowa, and serving until April, 1914. J. E. Wilkinson, a member of congregation, served as [657] preacher from April, 1914, to February, 1915. Rufus W. Stevenson (of "The Island" and known over the whole of Canada), served until February, 1916. C. E. Evans, of Twin Falls, Idaho, became minister on Oct. 1, 1916, after summer months when no services were held. O. L. Curtis became minister by June, 1917, and was followed after a brief term by Percy Simpson, a son of pioneer R. H. Simpson, of Ardley. (Percy Simpson became a casualty in the second War.) He was succeeded by J. Martin Rhodes, of Calgary, who served from June 1920 to July 1921. Then came Charles W. Simpson, from Tekoa, Wash. He originally hailed from the congregation on Cecil St., Toronto. His long and fruitful service from September 3, 1922 until his death in April 1938, needs more comment than can briefly be awarded. He gave fifteen years of faithful upbuilding co-operative effort to Edmonton; and he had a helpmeet of the true sort in Mrs. Simpson. Educationally he was well prepared for his task. He wrote a farewell message to the anniversary celebration, in which he stated: "We have learned the great and fundamental lessons of patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and respect for every personality; and that through persistent efforts through a period of years a church can be built up through co-operation of like-minded souls in backing up the ministry of the gospel." Of C. W. Simpson, in 1927, M. B. Ryan wrote "he has the confidence and love of the church". To some afar from Edmonton 'Charlie Simpson' was an expressive personality. He left a son to the Christian ministry. (Herbert James Simpson graduated from Chapman College, and was ordained at Hollywood, and now serves the Windsor, Ontario congregation.)

      Howard Reese served as an interim supply, July and August, 1938. He was a student in Alberta Bible College. Then Halsey E. Wakelin, Scott, Saskatchewan, came to the church as minister from a previous service at Norwood, Manitoba. His term ran to May, 1943. He was succeeded by H. Bruce Stainton, of Toronto, with a fruitful ministry, ending in December, 1946, on his call to St. James and Norwood. Some other members must be mentioned for their works and influence.

      Since 1913: John B. Thompson, only resident charter member today; and J. E. Wilkinson, preacher-elder, now chairman of board of Chapman college, Los Angeles. 1915: G. C. Bergman, now active with the congregation over some years at Erskine, Alberta (which see). The first meeting in Edmonton was a communion service in his home. 1917: G. W. Fullerton (deceased). He was the first treasurer, and a leading spirit, with service reaching back to Pictou, N.S. and Kenora, Ont. (which see). He left [658] means for starting 'new work'. 1919, or earlier: Mr. (and Mrs.) R. S. Martin: from conservative background; acted as teacher-preacher during his years with the congregation, until his death in 1939. Mrs. Martin was regional woman's worker for the National Committee of the W.M.S. for some years.

      Since about 1919, Dr. M. M. Dunsworth and Jim Miles were leaders. Bro. Dunsworth was chairman of the local board for some years, also president of Alberta Christian Missionary Society for a long term. (He greatly helped the compiler of this history too.) Bro. Miles served as S.S. superintendent for sixteen years and was interested in Boys' work in the province.

      Since 1929, Murray J. MacKenzie, serving some years as elder, valuable as a teacher, originally from Cape Breton Island.

      Prominent women have included Mrs. J. B. Thompson, for twenty years president of the W.M.S. and now deceased. Mrs. O. B. Ooley, for eighteen years president of Loyal Women; and Mrs. Sarah Simpson, esteemed minister's wife, during the ministry of Charles W. Simpson.

      Fruitful evangelistic meetings have been recorded, as follows: May, 1924, John H. Wells; March, 1925, W. G. Kitchen; May, 1927, John H. Wells, elaborate down-town meeting; March, 1928, M. B. Ryan; May, 1929, Homer Kellems; May, 1932, H. Bruce Stainton; October, 1932, Walter Stram; November, 1933, Hugh B. Kilgour; October, 1936, Jasper Bogue; April, 1936, J. Merlin Hill; May, 1939, Jasper Bogue; September, 1940, J. Merlin Hill.

      Hanna townsite was sold in Saskatoon on August 7, 1912. These were pioneer times in the west, and whilst the main chance was the object of most pioneers, a few were concerned with providing the means of spiritual life, and all honor to such. Bro. and Sis. O. E. Payne were then homesteaders, and Mrs. Payne bought two lots with a prophetic hope a church should one day arise upon them. M. B. Ryan was then superintendent of missions in Alberta, and in January, 1913, he attempted a meeting, but a period of low temperatures frustrated it. By 1913 other spiritual pioneers arrived; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Jones met the Paynes, and the Livingstone family from Garden Plains. These, with Mr. and Mrs. Claude Harris held a few meetings in the Jones home in Hanna. Other recruits were Mr. and Mrs. O. H. Tallman and family, from Ontario, who came in the fall of 1913. Bro. Tallman preached in the theatre and held communion services also. After April, 1914, the meetings were held in the Jones home, and later in Stirling [659] hall. In the spring of 1915-6, a church building was under way in the west end. Albert Brown (of London, Eng. and later Toronto) arrived and held a two weeks' meeting in a school. After the completion of the building, Gordon McPhee, of Carman, Man., held a month's meeting. Local talent generally carried on public services and some families were added: Sayle Brown, Eric Johnston, the Fitzsimmons, the Coulters. Soon the Bible school outgrew the first building and two rooms were added. Progress was on the way and a meeting held by the Organ evangelistic group resulted in many additions. That year (1919) the provincial convention was held with the Hanna church. This growth resulted in another 'lean-to' to accommodate the fast increasing school. Just here may be interpolated the value of a trained and intelligent membership, who are 'apt to teach.' J. W. Derby, of P.E.I., came next as minister, for part-time, 1920-7., In the second year a parsonage was built. But then followed the dry years that so shook the hearts of the pioneering West. Hanna lost seventeen families in one year, including the Paynes, Browns, Sr., and Sayles Browns. Much reduced the group persevered even after the loss of many members named here. In the summer of 1927, the evangelist of All-Canada, John H. Wells held a four weeks' revival, in which ninety members were added to the church. Among these were Bro. and sister Rose, who, with their family of four talented daughters, are a great asset to the church. Of course, there were some transient persons baptized and the increase was not numerically ninety. Next came E. T. Lewis, of Hammond, Ind., as pastor, in November, 1927. The old building as well as its site having become undesirable, he instituted a campaign for a new building. This effort was in time completed, and on Nov. 11, 1928, a new church building was dedicated by C. W. Cauble. It was worthy of Hanna church and amongst the best in the town, costing $15,000. In February, 1929, R. J. Westaway became pastor, serving until February, 1931. In July, 1929, the Alberta convention was held at Hanna, at the peak of its prosperity in attendance of church and school. In that year receipts were $2,152, and in the Bible school, $682.; but dry and financial depression again struck the church so that members were diminished. Oliver W. McCully, of All-Canada, then a student, served during the summer of 1931. J. W. Jenkins, a veteran of the cause in the West, served from November, 1931, for a year. He secured W. E. Stram, of Oregon, to evangelize in the province and in Hanna, which resulted in some additions. Bro. Carter acted as a supply, during the summer; and in March, 1933, G. Hayden Stewart, fresh from College, came as minister. He [660] shortly after acquired a helpmeet, and they both served the church faithfully until August, 1934. Bro. Carter was again supply from October, 1934, to December, 1936; but on his leaving a group was drawn to another organization. A. J. McKellar, a farmer-preacher from Berry Creek, (30 miles south) assisted often by preaching. In December, 1936, Jasper Bogue and Mrs. Bogue, came and served until May, 1937; then Ross Hollister, a student of Alberta Bible College, came to minister during his college course, travelling at week ends.

      In October, 1937, the Canadian Disciple reported that elders Scott, Rose, and McIlvaine had been re-elected. Church officers have also included elder Wm. Louth, Wm. Jones, chairman, and W. E. Fitzsimmons, trustee. Ross Hollister, was welcomed to the church. On his graduation in A. & C. in May, 1927, he held more meetings in the province, and H. L. Breakenridge came as supply minister. An effort was made here to reduce debt upon the church building; it was successful, and the debt was almost cleared. In 1940 Hanna was again host to the Alberta Convention for its thirty-second meeting. Thos. G. Rash, of Purple Springs (another student of A.B.C.) succeeded in August, 1940. He has taken a post graduate course, but leaves in April, having accepted a call to missionary work in India.

      Membership of the church, as reported by Mrs. Scott in 1945, is eighty-three. She has kindly provided much of the information herein. As Miss Ethel Stirling, she has been, for some years, the valued servant of the church as secretary.

      A W.M.S. was organized by Mrs. Romig some twenty years previously, which carries on loyally, with a membership of sixteen. Other church services are: Bible School of fifty, with teacher-training classes: a weekly prayer meeting; Y.P.S.C. Endeavor, and two groups for boys and girls. In the small town of Hanna ten churches are competing for attention: this makes difficult the aim of the church, which is given as "to restore the genuine New Testament church". When the Christian world really begins to adjust itself to Scripture and reason, the witness of such churches as Hanna will surely have accomplished something which will not have to be refuted.

      A group came out here as a witness for Christ amidst the open spaces of Alberta, but was never organized as a church. Their origin was somewhat due to the T. L. Rash family. They functioned under the name Kinniburgh [661] School, with Purple Springs as post office. The Rash home first housed the school, but when the Public School building was erected in 1920, a transfer was made there. Attendance ranged from twenty to fifty. What such a meeting meant to those lacking religious privileges may be imagined. When Oliver Curtis was minister at First church, Lethbridge, he held a meeting and baptized fourteen. Evangelist M. B. Ryan visited and preached also, and Mrs. Romig gave one of her illustrated missionary lectures. Sometimes United Church ministerial students preached; but the school was first aim. One Sunday, preaching by C. H. Phillips brought into Christ three Rash grandsons, 18 to 21; baptized at Lethbridge. Of these the eldest Howard, first attended Alberta Bible College and preached at Purple Springs as student in 1941. Frank Rempel, A.B.C. student, also preached at Wrentham and Purple Springs for a year (see Grande Prairie). In 1939 the Bogues visited, holding meetings and baptizing the Harbinsen family, Mr. and Mrs. H. N. Kinniburgh, Wm. Kinniburgh, Bill Rash and Mr. and Mrs. Ingram. Thomas G. Rash attended Alberta Bible College also, and graduated, later taking with him another graduate, Leota Ruth Potton as his wife. They volunteered as missionaries, and reached India in December, 1945, and will serve with the Rothermels at Ragual. Accompanying them is another from Alberta, Miss Edna Hunt. Amongst the workers at Purple Springs must be named Mrs. W. A. Alexander, the F. S. Porter family, T. L. Rash and wife, R. L. Rash and family, C. M. Rash, Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Cradduck, Mr. and Mrs. W. Abell. The group no longer meets as such, owing to losses by death of early supporters. But those remaining enjoy preaching services when possible, witness in the Lord's Supper, and send gifts to missions and also support the A.B.C. Lethbridge church supplied them with hymn books and a communion set. Such is a too brief note about an earnest group of Christians in broad Alberta.

      Back in 1925, Mrs. L. M. Hovis, a faithful Christian woman, was not content that children should grow up without Scriptural instruction, and in her little town of Turner Valley, in Canada's greatest oil centre, she started a Bible school and was able to procure occasional preaching services (by keeping at it, so we are informed). Circumstances connected with the expansion of oil concerns, compelled her to change her residence to Black Diamond, so she started another school there, and continued both schools for a time. She had the backing of J. W. Jenkins, president and leader of Alberta missionary affairs. Bro. Jenkins reported in the Canadian Disciple [662] "that she besieged me constantly to meet the needs of the hundreds that were moving to town". (This makes a good pin-up' sentiment for all W.M.S. societies, and others.) Jenkins reported "as a result of one of her visits I sent a team over and the work of excavation for the basement was begun. The cement basement, 30 x 48 x 8 feet in the clear, has been accomplished and a substantial building erected upon it and enclosed." The building was completed and Sunday, September twenty-nine arranged for as the opening day. In the meantime Bro. Cole, from Calgary came down and held a short meeting, baptising four and adding in all seven persons. The opening of this veritable temple of the Lord, provided by such faith-holding witnesses, occurred with representatives in goodly numbers from Lethbridge, Vulcan, Richmond Hill, Broadway and Calgary, to add their joy and hopes to the beginning. Bro. Jenkins adds in his note in Canadian Disciple, October, 1929, "starting with one member to build a house of worship that will serve the purpose of a growing town, is not an easy task." He was glad to aid and call attention to what one person had done, and that person a woman. (The point bears attention.) Black Diamond does not publicize its work, but the following may be read with interest. In February, 1931, a report of a short meeting appeared in Canadian Disciple, conducted by J. H. Deans, with 'ten added'. In April, 193 1, J. W. Jenkins was able to report that the debt on the building had been cleared off in one and a half year's time. In Canadian Disciple, November, 1940, H. E. Wakelin was describing the little church financing a missionary project, "aid for a Korean Mission School", and that as home mission activities they were sending S.S. literature to families and outlying districts in the north. They had developed a choir and a Handicraft Club, which had reached sixty-five children in the community. Pulpit exchanges between this point and Vulcan were bearing credit for fellowship. Eva Steiger was reporter for the congregation, and Annie Wegener president of the Y.P. Society, all of which looks like progress for this outlying church in the west. A previous issue had announced that attempts were being made at Little Chicago, to organize a mission there. In 1941, a Boys' club in Handcrafts realized $16.50. All of this is in keeping with the fact that this mission pioneer church building became the first schoolhouse of the town. In 1944, H. Bostock was reported as minister. This note contains all known facts, but with it goes the hope that continued faithfulness will yet see "greater works" at Black Diamond. [663]

      In 1925 Mrs. Hovis, of Black Diamond, started a Sunday School here amidst the growing stir of an oil boom. She kept faithfully at the job, the school, with a church, always in sight, as had happened with her work at Black Diamond. Ross Hollister, first graduate of the Alberta Bible College, is said to have founded a church of 'Christians only' here, but details are lacking. Last reports indicate that a woman is still the inspiration of the work, in the person of Edna Hunt. However, this must have been but temporary, since her departure for the mission field of India was imminent in the summer of 1945.

      A spectacular beginning occurred here in July 1926, in a community which had but one identified with the Church of Christ (Disciples), although four others were later 'discovered'. A meeting was held under the auspices of the All-Canada movement, then directing the evangelistic campaign across Canada by John H. Wells; the result was thirty-five baptisms and ten immersed persons from other bodies. A temporary organization was effected with about fifty members. It is the writer's belief that president J. W. Jenkins, of the Alberta Society, had much to do with it, as he became the leading spirit for long in that region. Bro. Ryan, however, in a report to the Society states he himself organized the church. In December, 1927, Bro. Jenkins was recognized as the pastor of the church and the following tribute is taken out of the Canadian Disciple, from which other facts have been gathered: "through whose (Bro. Jenkins') interest and oversight the development of this work has largely been due. The group is rich in talent and has developed fitting qualities in leadership." The Vulcan group had fellowship with an earlier one, that at Broadway, and associated also were Richmond Hill and Kirkcaldy as preaching points, in the attempt to get representation in this very broad field of Alberta. Another local leader is J. H. Deans, who took responsibility for the Bible school, which is the indisputable best beginning in a community that needs Biblical teaching. He is elder also and a lay minister. In February, 1928, Deans was reporting that special offerings for co-operative work were maintained and that the school was largely made up of folk of other religious bodies. In September 1928, another pastor named O. B. Burris, of Oregon, was reported and progress looked for. The Bible school then enrolled one hundred and twenty-five; a Christian Endeavor Society, forty-five members; a Ladies' Aid, eighteen members, and thirty-five were, added during the year, all [664] of which looked like genuine co-operative advance. An outstanding feature was that of "donated labor" by individuals and friends, amounting to a value of $1,416; a Bible school of one hundred and seventy-two; a C.E. Society of fifty-nine, gifts for Alberta missions $50.; and a total for missions of $155. A building had been erected and its cost was placed at $7,745, with a debt on it of $894. In December, 1941, a room was reported as finished in the basement for the pastor who is there on week-ends.

      There was left remaining a debt of $894. In July, 1930, Roy Isaacson, of Eugene Bible university, Ore. became minister, but J. H. Deans is reported as baptizing some of his own converts in the river where he had himself received baptism about four years previously (Canadian Disciple, July, 1930). By February, 1931, a baptistry had been installed. By July, 1931, the Bible school was acclaimed as at its highest membership in five years--one hundred and two. In July, 1931, the church entertained the Alberta convention. The meeting of J. E. Todd, of Oregon, resulted in a gain of twenty-three, of which twelve were newly baptized. In the year 1934, additions of fourteen were made and the building debt reduced. E. G. Hansell came as pastor of the church; his election as member of the Federal parliament of Canada was reported in Canadian Disciple of January, 1936. Jasper Bogue became pastor in March, 1936, also provincial evangelist. Few men have come into any section of Canada from the States and revealed stronger qualities of leadership than Jasper Bogue (his wife assisting always). In September, 1936, the development of a gospel team was reported, of young people, twenty-five in number, under the leadership of J. H. Deans. They held services in school houses and homes. This represents an enthusiasm that belongs to pioneer churches always. In October, 1940, W. VanAuken was reported as serving as minister during the summer; the church was fostering two mission points--Richmond Hill and Berryvale. In February, 1941, nineteen additions were reported since the coming of Bro. VanAuken. A year later thirty-three additions were reported, of which twenty-three were by baptism. The church had been closely co-operating with the Alberta Bible college. Robert E. Gonyea served as minister for a term ending, May, 1942, when he was in June succeeded by Ken. T. Norris, of Toronto, as minister. The financial statement for the year 1944 showed a total of $2,231.91. Of this amount $228.46 was given to mission and evangelistic work; also several hundred dollars by individuals to the Alberta Bible College; $214.41 had been paid on the church parsonage, almost paying it off. During the year the church received new [665] hymnals and the Ladies' Aid was active in money raising. The minister, Ken. T. Norris served until June, 1945.

      This brief collection of facts, mostly from our national periodical, the Canadian Disciple, reveals stimulating and encouraging efforts to grow disciples in the great West.

      Tuxedo Park Church of Christ is situated in a newer district in Calgary, the north-western. It probably began with a Sunday school that reached some without nearer religious privileges, and was preached to by the pioneer preacher, R. J. Westaway of Alberta, whose praise used to be sung in all Alberta churches, and known also across Canada for his original and daring evangelism in even low temperatures in the great West. He is said to have begun about 1928; a Bible school of one hundred was developed and an active congregation of about forty. No assistance was given this early effort, and a building was used, loaned by the United Church, in a spirit of commendable Christian fellowship, more common perhaps in the West than elsewhere. Bro. Westaway left this work to be pastor at Hanna in February, 1929. Evangelist Jasper Bogue, of the Alberta work, held a meeting in 1936, with twenty-three additions, of which eleven were by baptism, reported in Canadian Disciple.

      In another article the same journal commented upon the spirit of co-operation developed between Tuxedo and Central church which, in the fashion of older and real historians, may be said to have been "a good thing." We are next made aware that a brother J. Merlin Hill is pastor and sharing his energies with the Alberta Bible college, of which he became principal, and during his ministry (which lasted until June, 1941) the church is said to have grown in numbers and spiritual strength. Some proof of this was in the church's ability to get along without a pastor, which occurred in waiting for a successor, who came in the person of Melvin Breakenridge. He was a graduate of the Alberta college and became its principal as well. Such a task was a heavy one and he felt unable to carry the burden of it for more than one year. In June, 1942, Frank Rempel was called as minister and continued until 1945. At this time the membership approximated one hundred and twenty-five, with a board of six elders, fourteen deacons and five deaconesses. The Bible School had an enrollment of one hundred and seventy-five; a regular staff of seventeen teachers, using graded lessons; and the superintendent of this Christian activity is E. E. Breakenridge, who served in this way for over ten years. He has also conducted a fine choir of [666] about thirty voices.

      From all information received by the writer, it seems apparent that Tuxedo Park church has kept the original pioneer evangelist spirit that has brought so many of our churches into being. Mr. Breakenridge came into the fellowship of the Church of Christ over a dozen years ago, and he carries on still with the energy that often denotes the convert--the desire to see his faith propagated. He may be said to be a leading spirit in this church, and in the affairs of the Alberta Bible College. Whatever the church's future history becomes, it cannot but be observed with deep interest and remembrance of the years of preparation and service by early workers in Alberta province, of which evangelist M. B. Ryan was the first, beginning in April, 1911. May strong and faithful witness be borne through the years to the realities of the Christian faith which lie beyond even pioneer conceptions.

      In September, 1936, C. H. Phillips, minister, reports James E. Ladd holding a meeting on the church property in a tent. (Canadian Disciple, Sept., 1936). Next spring, at Easter, the church is planning a fellowship at College closing time. In June, 1937, there is evidence of an attempt to effect a junction of two Christian bodies for fellowship. C. H. Phillips, in 1937, ceased his ministry, upon the removal of the College to Calgary. He was succeeded by Stanley Smith as minister. Edward P. Benoit then came as student pastor from the Alberta Bible College in Calgary, and ministered until the fall term of the College in 1941, when he was called to assist in faculty work. Mr. Meredith Bergman then succeeded.

      This work was opened by students of the A.B.C., under the leadership of Meredith Bergman, about the year 1940. Regular church services are said to have been carried on part of the time. A Bible School has been maintained continuously, yet with varying success. In March, 1945, there was an attendance of fifty. The school has a superintendent from Central church; two teachers assist from Tuxedo Park and two are local to the church. They do not own a building as yet. During the ministry of John Bergman there were four adults, and three other young people were baptized.

      Another mission is also reported in West Calgary, dating from 1944. Dr. Phillips preaches in a schoolhouse. Attendance runs about thirty. Three classes divide the school for teaching. These interlocked schools and churches in Calgary certainly call for a lot of Christian co-operation; but that is an opportunity. [667]

      In 1945, this group was the youngest in the province. It was established by Mr. and Mrs. Jasper Bogue, through their co-operative action in Saskatchewan in about the year 1936. It is merely a school group as yet, situated about thirty miles from Lethbridge. The first effort was a Sunday School, and the Bogues gave leadership looking toward further organizing. The means of development were limited. Mrs. T. M. Huff gave school leadership for two summers, with a fair attendance. Young people, too, became active and a student was sent to the A.B.C. college. Eventually the War hindered here as elsewhere by taking away the young people and the school was closed, partly owing to the loss of Mrs. Huff to Lethbridge. Then E. E. Barnard became leader and for a time there was an upswing. In 1942, another revival became necessary, led by Mr. Hughes, school principal, with E. E. Barnard assisting and Leo. Barnard as treasurer. Favorable conditions followed for a time; and a small building was bought and removed to Wrentham, and there was some growth. The cycle of failure again was continued, as ill-health and removals caused a decline. The Bogues held meetings and baptized at least twenty persons, and there was occasional preaching as well. There was some co-operation also with Purple Springs work in 1941, when Howard Rash was supplying there as student. Where there are relatively few people and where leadership must be moved to another field or is of an uncertain character, the hazards against success in religious work are increased. [643]

[DCC 644-667]