Page:A semi-centenary discourse.djvu/104

 revive the spirits of his people, and give them a refreshing shower from on high.

In the year 1854 the congregation, in view of the antiquated appearance of the church, and the necessity of remodelling it, concluded to enter into some measures for accomplishing so desirable an end. It may not be known to the general reader of these pages why it was that at this particular, and to human probability, discouraging period that the congregation should attempt the remodelling of the building. Philadelphia, it is well known, by all who are acquainted with the fact, contains a colored population of intelligence and wealth as can be found in any city in the Union, and possessed of considerable taste.

The colored churches of this city are confirmatory of this fact; in their interior as on the exterior they present an appearance of neatness and good taste. Those that have recently been erected have been built in keeping with the latest architectural style of whatever order. As a general thing, all old churches have been remodelled and made to present a respectable appearance. I do not by any means wish to convey the idea that they have been extravagantly remodelled; simplicity and neatness alone have been substituted for the dull and sombre appearance of the old buildings. To these churches thus remodelled people preferred to worship, particularly that portion of the community which should by some means or other have the Gospel preached unto them. Another reason why the people as a general thing were anxious to alter their churches ; and this was one of the reasons that prompted this church to remodel their house. The old houses were not well ventilated, nor lighted. In order to secure all these advantages, so necessary to health as to comfort, it was