Mary Church Terrell: An Original Oberlin Activist

First Church

First Church, so named because it was the first church and congregation built in Oberlin, has had a position of prominence within the community since 1834. The annual Christmas concert given by the Musical Union was often held there, as were the high school graduation exercises, the College’s commencement concerts, and other large events. The church had a unique standing with the College as many of the faculty were members and graced the pulpit from time to time. The majority of students were members of First Church and Terrell was among them.  She sang in the choir and was an active participant in the Sunday school.

"Church Chimes," an article appearing in the Oberlin Weekly News on November 11, 1881 reported that
"Communion services were held at both of the Congregational churches last Sunday morning, which are mentioned as of a specially interesting character. At the First Church 35 persons were received to membership, 31 by letter and 4 on profession. Prof. C. H. Churchill assisted the pastor" (Oberlin Weekly News, November 11, 1881, p.3).  It was during that service that Mary Eliza Church made her confession of faith. The Membership Register for First Church records the date as November 6, 1881.  She was “admitted on confession” and “baptized at the time of confession.”  Her membership record was later updated to reflect her married name and noted that she was “dismissed by letter to University Park Temple, Washington D. C.” on February 15, 1897.

This page has paths:

This page references: