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Second Presbyterian Church is rooted in rich and valued traditions spanning more than 130 years. Formed in 1865 as an anti-slavery church by Dr. Timothy Hill and a group of 3 men and 7 women who were determined to create a place for worship despite lack of money and a building, Second Presbyterian is a thriving church today whose members are engaged in all facets of church life. The same commitment to social responsibility, community leadership and worship and to gaining a deeper understanding of God's Word that excited the original organizers energizes Second's congregation today.
Second survived and flourished in the early years (left)despite many setbacks, including a fire which destroyed the church building and manse (left), which was located at 13th and Central in Kansas City, MO, in 1900 and continuing shifts in population. From 1865 to 1915, Second occupied buildings at several downtown locations, beginning with the first church at 809 Wyandotte. Realizing the need to follow the population south, in 1916 Second settled in one of Kansas City's first suburbs at 55th Street, between Brookside Blvd. and Oak Streets, where it makes its home today.
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The first unit of Second's present structure (left) was erected in 1916 (the side chapel or south wing of the church, now called the transept). The sanctuary was completed in 1917. The tower was enlarged and chimes installed in 1924 and the educational wing was built in 1926. The remodeling of the sanctuary, with installation of the new organ, complete rebuilding of the chancel and provision of the new stained glass windows, was finished in 1949.
Second's church building (left) itself is a symbol of our heritage. The distinctive Gothic-style stone structure features a welcoming and inspiring sanctuary with carvings in the molding and furniture that reflect events and teachings in the life of Christ. Magnificent stained-glass windows, including a Tiffany window, depict Christian symbols and stories. Fifty colorful liturgical banners, created over a 12 year period, are changed to reflect church seasons and needlepoint cushions of Biblical figures decorate the front pews.
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The windows, banners and cushions represent the work of dozens of men and women who devoted their talents to planning, designing and executing the art projects - yet another evidence of the spirit of involvement by its members that permeates Second. Christian education has been an important part of the life and work of Second Church throughout its existence. The first Sunday School was organized in 1866 and church calendars from the early years give ample evidence of the teaching ministry. Second today offers many innovative educational programs for children, youth and adults where they can study and share the Word of God.
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Today, some 900 members drawn from the greater Kansas City area, gather for worship at Second Presbyterian. Second continues to uphold and pursue its mission to "Gather, Grow and Go" that emerged from those simple beginnings in 1865.
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Reaching out to the community continues to be a cornerstone of Second Church as it was in the early days when Second's members taught in mission schools and supplied food, clothing, supplies, labor and money for those in need throughout Kansas City and missions overseas. Today, Second champions a variety of agencies and outreaches in Kansas City that include food pantries, AIDS ministries, housing projects and social justice initiatives designed to build bridges toward racial harmony, quality public schools and nurturing children and youth in area neighborhoods. Second also provides assistance to missions and other projects in Ethiopia, Thailand, India, Brazil, Honduras and Guatemala. |
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