Medford Historical Society Papers, Volume 6.

At the first meeting after the organization of this church, July 22, the Rev. George W. Bosworth, a then recent graduate of Newton, who, says a chronicle of the day, ‘by his zeal and faithful labors had stolen the hearts of all,’ was called to the pastorate of the infant church. He was a man of marked ability even in his youth, and the people, with great reason, were proud of their young pastor. Rev. Mr. Bosworth began his work August 1, 1841, and by his zeal and faithful efforts secured the undivided interest of all, and gathered many into the church, among whom were Joanna Parker and Charlotte M. Richardson, whose lives, long continued, bore witness to their sincerity and truth.

The public services connected with the recognition of the church and the ordination of the pastor-elect were held, by the courtesy of the Second Congregational Church, in their meeting-house, September 8, 1841, their kindness on that occasion contributing not a little to the encouragement of the new church. Rev. Baron Stow, pastor of the Second Baptist Church, Boston, preached the sermon. The ‘charge’ was given by Rev. Mr. Colver, the ‘right hand of fellowship’ by Rev. Mr. Randall, and the address to the church by Rev. Mr. Williams. The audience was large and appreciative. The letter to the Boston Baptist Association this month reports a membership of seventeen and a congregation of from one hundred and fifty to two hundred. Some of the members of the Bowdoin Square Baptist Church, Boston, presented to this young sister church a table and communion set.

In the fall and winter months of 1841-42, services were continued in the Town Hall, which, however, soon grew too strait for them. The Sunday evening services were attended by throngs of eager listeners. Young People's meetings were held, and at this time were started the meetings—continued without interruption ever since —on the Monday after the first Sunday in January, at 6 A. M. (About thirty were present on January 5 of the present year, 1903.)