First Church of Christ -- Scientist, had its origin at Shelbyville in 1905, when eight persons of this faith met and held meetings in three rooms in the post-office block. In July, 1907, the church organization was perfected by about twenty-five members. The original officers were the board consisting of the following persons: Ray Deprez, chairman; Mrs. Harry Downey, vice-president; Mrs. R. Harrison, treasurer; Walter Randall, secretary; the other member of the board being Mrs. Daniel Deprez. Upon the organization of the society new quarters were secured on the second floor of the post-office block; a neatly planned and finely furnished chapel, with a seating capacity of about one hundred, was provided; also a reception and office room, together with a library. The reading room is open every day in the week and services held Sunday and mid-week night. The readers have been, Harry Downey, first reader; Miss Bertha Spelman, second reader. These still serve, except that Mrs. Harry Downey is acting now as second reader. Mrs. Downey is also the efficient librarian. The present chairman is Ray Deprez and the vice-president is Mrs. Daniel Deprez. This newly organized church has met with success and well represents the cause nearest the hearts of its membership. Literature and books treating on the faith of Christian Science are freely distributed among the people who read them eagerly. With this excellent reading room there can be no good excuse for one living in Shelbyville to live longer in ignorance of what this people believe and teach.
[Chadwick's discussion of churches moves to African Churches-pmf]
Chadwick's History of Shelby County, Indiana, by Edward H. Chadwick, B.A., assisted by
well known local talent, B.F. Bowen & Co, Publishers: Indianapolis, IN, 1909, page 162.
Submitted by Marita Bolson
Church Index