The American Reformed Church

By the above name we designate what has been generally known as the "First Reformed Church," and we mean also to correct the false impression occasionally entertained that the services of this church are conducted in a foreign language.

Early in 1872 the Reformed house of worship was destroyed by fire, its pulpit having just become vacant. For a year and a half the work of the organization was apparently suspended, but the summer of 1873 showed renewed activity and determination on its part. At that time a suitable house of worship -- located on North Division street, between Fountain and Pearl - was purchased of the Baptist Church society, and the services of the present pastor were secured. Since the reopening of the church gratifying prosperity has attended us.

As the free seat system has long been adopted by us, the church is supported by voluntary subscriptions, which works admirably. We have no debt to speak of and are not incurring any.

At the revival of our church work several excellent plans and suggestions were made, aiming at material and spiritual prosperity. These have been and continue to be carried out from time to time as ability and opportunity permit. One of these was, encouragement of congregational singing under the leadership of an able choir. Owing to a cause beyond our control there was some delay, for the termination of which we impatiently waited; and now we have just introduced a very superior collection of hymns and tunes, entitled "Hymns of the Church." ‘Competent critics and churches that have tried it speak very highly of it. Through the well known liberal donation of Hon. C.C. Comstock we expect to soon add further valuable improvement to this part of worship by the purchase of a first class church organ. Our Sabbath services are at the usual hours. The Sabbath School meets at noon.’ It is in a flourishing condition. The weekly prayer meeting is held on Wednesday evening at 7 o’clock, at the church. We have church socials once a month. To all these privileges of the church we cordially invite and welcome our fellow-citizens, especially those having no religious connections elsewhere. We have accommodations for them and their children. We invite the stranger and the transient visitor of our city. We welcome the poor and the rich, and to all who are pleased to make our acquaintance we hope to do good in the name and spirit of our Master and in consecrated loyalty to the truth as it is in Jesus. P.M.