Kansas City’s Second Church of Christ Scientist: A Historical Journey

News Summary

The Second Church of Christ Scientist in Kansas City, built in 1904, showcases stunning Roman-Doric architecture. This historical landmark transitioned from a place of worship to community support, reflecting the dynamic changes in the neighborhood over time. Architect F.R. Comstock’s grand design, marked by 44-foot pillars and a distinctive cornerstone, enriches its narrative as it serves as a vital center for local aid today, following a journey filled with community connection and architectural significance.

Kansas City’s Second Church of Christ Scientist: A Historical Journey from Construction to Community Use

Kansas City is home to many architectural gems, but few have a story as rich and compelling as the Second Church of Christ Scientist. This remarkable structure, which opened its doors in 1904, stands proudly at the northeast corner of 31st and Troost Streets. The church was designed during a time when the Christian Science movement was gaining momentum, leading to the rapid growth of its congregation. This surge of interest was so immense that it necessitated the construction of this second church, just a mere six years after the first church was built at 9th and Forest Streets.

A Visionary Design

The Second Church of Christ Scientist was crafted by the talented architect F.R. Comstock, who is well-known for his design of the original ‘mother church’ in Boston. His vision brought forth a church built with pure white stone, resembling the elegant Roman-Doric architectural style. The building is hard to miss, boasting grand 44-foot pillars that support a graceful dome, making it a stunning sight against the Kansas City skyline. And if that isn’t enough to catch your eye, the cornerstone of the temple, which was imported all the way from New Hampshire, adds a unique touch to its history. This stone has ties to Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science, as she called New Hampshire home. Isn’t that fascinating?

A Landmark of Community and Sound

What makes the Second Church of Christ Scientist even more special is its location. Positioned on one of the highest points in Jackson County, this church provides a visible landmark for miles around. A welcoming presence to the community, chimes were added a few years after its completion to announce its existence, drawing the ears of local residents and intertwining itself in the fabric of the neighborhood.

The Evolution of Time

1955, the church community made the decision to move south and eventually sold the original site to J.C. Penney. The ensuing demolition of this architectural treasure was carefully documented by photographers, securing its presence in Kansas City’s history books. Unfortunately, J.C. Penney also faced its own struggles and closed its doors by 1980. What was once a sanctuary became a department store, reflecting the changing tides of the community.

A New Purpose

Today, this historic structure has found new life as the home base for Operation Breakthrough, an organization dedicated to supporting Kansas City kids. This transformation from a house of worship to a center of community aid showcases the adaptability of the building and highlights the ongoing journey of Troost Avenue. However, this change hasn’t come without controversy. The historical and social dynamics of Troost Avenue have sparked discussions and debates regarding the neighborhood’s evolution.

Conclusion

From its elegant architectural roots to its modern-day function as a community support center, the Second Church of Christ Scientist in Kansas City stands as a testament to resilience and change. It not only reflects a rich history of faith and community but also continues to adapt, serving the needs of the Kansas City area. As conversations around Troost Avenue unfold, the legacy of this building remains a crucial part of the ongoing story of the community it serves.

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Additional Resources

• Kansas City News Article
• Wikipedia: Kansas City
• Deseret News Article
• Google Search: Kansas City Christian Science
• Kansas Reflector Article
• Google Scholar: White Christian Nationalism
• Church News Article
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Christian Science
• Deseret Faith Article
• Google News: Andy Reid
• AOL Article
• Wikipedia: Architecture of Kansas City