Wednesday, June 22, 2022

"Joseph Smith's Prophecy of Mormon Church in Cincinnati Made 98 Years Ago Fulfilled in Dedication of Chapel," Commercial Tribune, September 16, 1921

The following comes from:

 

Horace W. Karr, "Joseph Smith's Prophecy of Mormon Church in Cincinnati Made 98 Years Ago Fulfilled in Dedication of Chapel," The Commercial Tribune 34, no. 94 (September 16, 1929): 1-2

 

 




 

Ninety-eight years ago Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints prophesied that a Mormon church some day would be established in Cincinnati. His declaration looked upon as a divine inspiration by believers in the religion he typified, came true Sunday afternoon, when a beautiful little chapel on Orchard street was dedicated.

 

The chapel, formerly the Fourth Presbyterian Church, appeared as a new structure, having been renovated inside and out, painted and fully repaired. It represents a cash investment of approximately $30,000 and is one of the most attractive chapels in the country.

 

The dedicatory address and prayer were delivered by Elder Orson F. Whitney, a native Ohioan, born in the northeastern part of the state, where the first Mormon temple was erected. There is perhaps no more learned man in the Mormon church than Elder Whitney, who has gained considerable fame as a poet, philosopher and church historian. He spoke with much feeling declaring he was especially proud to participate in the dedication of a chapel in the state of his nativity. His address was scholarly and intensely interesting. In conclusion he said he felt that Mormonism from this time on will be better understood and be received with a kindlier feeling by the people of Ohio.

 

Hope Finally Realized

 

Charles V. Anderson, President of the Cincinnati branch of the Northern States Mission, gave a brief review of the trials and tribulations of the small band of Mormons in finally establishing the Cincinnati chapel. He said he and a few others had worked fifteen years with the hope of some day forming a chapel here, but he had so many obstacles to overcome that many times they thought their ambition might never be realized.

 

"Even lightning came to interrupt our plans," he said. "Less than a week ago while we all were at a high pitch of enthusiasm over the realization of our dreams, a bolt flashed in a severe storm, struck a wire opposite the church and threatened its destruction. It did considerable damage in our edifice, but we worked night and day to get it in condition for the dedication and no one could be prouder than we are today."

 

Noah S. Pond of Chicago, President of the Northern States Mission, presided at the dedicatory exercises. In introducing Elder Whitney he recounted the struggles of the church membership in Cincinnati and it was he who told of the prophecy of Joseph Smith. Mr. Pond and his wife, who is President of the Relief Society, have given much of their time and efforts to the Cincinnati branch.

 

Officials Are Sustained

 

The members unanimously voted yesterday to sustain Heber J. Grant, First President; his counselors, the twelve apostles, all located in Salt Lake City, the seat of the church and the home of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle, and all local officers.

 

Splendid music, vocal and instrumental, marked the dedication. It was with pride that Mr. Anderson referred to the chapel's new pipe organ.

 

Elder Whitney, Mr. Pond and other officials will go to Dayton, O., today to dedicate a new chapel and Tuesday evening will attend a conference of the Ohio Northern district in Columbus.

 

The Cincinnati branch has a membership of nearly 200 and church leaders expect to add many new names to the roster within the year.

 

Further Reading:

 

Resources on Joseph Smith’s Prophecies