Medford Historical Society Papers, Volume 14.

[p. 50] and Universalist of Murray was in the battle also, until the old conformity to the standing order was no more. In its stead, with religious freedom, has come an indifference perhaps more fatal. This not only the Methodist Episcopal Church, but all others, Protestant and Romanist, must combat.

And now a few words in closing. Just fifty years from the time the First Methodist Church began in old Medford, the first organized effort outside the Puritan parish, Trinity began the first organized church effort in the new Medford that was to be and is. Five churches are now in West Medford (two others have organized but are no more).

It has been given to me (perhaps as to none other) to have a part in the work, to know the difficulties, the labors, the disappointments, and something of success; to be personally acquainted with the men and women who have given their best service to this work. I wish to bear testimony to the kindly assistance and friendship of several Unitarian and Baptist people in those longago days, the days of small things. I have already alluded to the passing of prejudice among our Congregational neighbors. I have never doubted that it was the Lord's will that our beginning was made, though sometimes the way has been ‘rough and thorny.’ I am content.

As these faces have looked on us tonight how the old memories come back. I could introduce but a few, but what a host there has been! This is the story of Trinity Church, Methodist Episcopal. ‘Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.’

Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget, lest we forget.