The Zephyr’s Preacher: A New Church Rises in Snohomish

The New Church.

On Sunday the Zephyr brought the Rev. L.R. Thompson to this place. He came for the purposes set forth in the following letter which we transcribe having received it and not been able to send it:

W. O. House, March 18, 1870.

Dear Friend: I expect to come up to Snohomish City by the Zephyr, leaving here Saturday morning and reaching Snohomish City by next Sunday, April 24th noon or thereabouts. Please arrange a place and make an appointment for me to preach sometime in the afternoon or evening as may be most convenient to the people. I will preach twice, once in the afternoon and once at night, if you think best for me to do so. I shall put myself in your hands, to do with me as you see fit. Consult Mr. Ferguson and Dr. Masterspoon about the time and place. I must come and don't intend to leave your Village or city until have secured everything for getting you a minister to live among you and take an actual interest in all the intellectual and material as well as moral and religious affairs of your city and country. If any public spirited man of brains and heart is wanted you, let me know. In haste, I remain yours very truly, Jno. H. Thompson.

We are to understand that only a few hours' notice can be given of his intention to hold religious services Sunday evening at the hall of the Hotel before the hall and filled with a large and appreciative audience. The subject of his sermon being: "Of what is an altar, some who worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." He also preached Monday evening upon the saving power of the Gospel.

While there he has so far succeeded in his object as to organize a church with fifteen members, representing six different denominations. Called the Union Presbyterian Church of Snohomish City, W.T. A congregation for the support of religion was organized and incorporated under the statutes of this Territory, consisting of all members including the fifteen church members. Robert Barrett and Judge Haskell were chosen Elders of the church. The officers of the congregation elected were Hugh Ross, Esq., President; Hon. E. Ferguson, Secretary; Hon. Royal Haskell, Treasurer. Trustees, Messrs. Ross, Ferguson, Haskell, Barrett, Masterspoon and Wilbur.

Mr. Thompson came here in pursuance of invitations received from many of our leading citizens. His energy, and good sense, as well as knowledge of human nature aided him in successfully carrying out what he undertook. So far we believe all in the community wish that he may succeed. The kind of men he described are wanted in every community.