In looking at the stars through a great telescope it is necessary first to put out every light until you are left in total darkness. Every light sets the air in motion and disturbs the focus and blurs the vision of the stars. How often our vision of God is blurred and dimmed by the flames of self-consciousness and worldliness that cloud around us and fog our vision of God. Therefore we have to turn our light of self-seeking and selfish ambition and false pride of position in order to look upward and in the clear still air to know whether God1s light is leading us and what God will have us to do.
       
       Now in this little historical sketch of our own beloved Woodland, we hope we may not point to any achievement as reflecting personal glory, for as Dr. Rider says, "Never in my experience were the leadings of a Divine Providence more evident than in the establishment and organization of Woodland Church." He farther says, "that the brethren talked and worked with a confidence in the Divine Guide and the spirit that reigned among them was beautiful." I am certain that it is the wish, yes the prayer, of every member of the present congregation that the same spirit may be placed with a thought only of building a fit house of worship for our Lord and Master.
       
       The history of Woodland Church is perhaps fresh in the mind of almost everyone. It is the result of an idea, a hope, a prayer, and these were realized, for the Conference of 1894 appointed Rev. E. E. Whittaker to North Hill and West Hill. In the latter place there was nothing but the desire for a church. Then came the meetings at the homes of those favorable to a Methodist Church on this side, finally it was decided to build a small chapel upon a leased lot. Rev. Whittaker and Dr. Rider were in constant touch with the enterprise, the former so much so that for days and days he shoveled and hauled sand. The lot secured was at the corner of Balch and Woodland, hence the name. Then work began in earnest, the brick dealers gave the brick, the lumber dealers gave a good share of the lumber, the carpenters, plasterers and painters their time, and the net cost of the church was $389 aside from all donations. The total cost without furnishings was $600. The church was dedicated April 21, 1895, Sermon preached by Dr, W. S. Davidson at 2 P.M. and one by Dr. Rider, Presiding Elder, at 7:30 P.M. The church was built without a member but on dedication Sunday thirty persons were received, the growth continued and everything was hopeful from the start. Scarcely a service was held but someone was admitted to the church either by letter or on probation.
       
       Dwight S. Moody once offered his Northfield pupils a prize of five hundred dollars for the best thought. This was the prize winning thought.... "Men grumble because God put thorns with roses, wouldn't it be better to thank God that he puts roses with the thorns." The work of the new society was often done at a disadvantage but the people took the brightest view and were thankful for the roses that were with the thorns. We could not offer the same luxuries to our friends as other churches--there were the stoves with your faces burning and your back cold, the chairs were very hard and quite often scarce, but it made us feel so happy as one by one the little improvements came for God prospered us. Rev. Whittaker assisted by Rev. McCaslin
       
       Historic Sketch (Davis) - 2
       
       remained as pastor until the Conference of ~ when Rev. S. F. Wood succeeded him remaining until '98 and leaving many places that had been benefited by his untiring efforts. The people saw during Rev. Wood's pastorate the advisability of purchasing a lot so the present location was secured and the church was moved in November of 1897 Then came the need of more room and the north side of the church was extended and a nice addition was made. Then we began to feel prosperous indeed for we owned a lot, a church, a piano, and even a furnace. The Conference of '98 appointed Rev. T. J. Post to Woodland Church and he remained as pastor for two years during which time the church parsonage was built. Ill health caused his resignation and he went to a Western home attended by the good wishes and prayers of the people.
       
       In 1900 our present pastor came to us and what he has accomplished is an open book to you. He has been everywhere that a possible duty called him. When we get discouraged he puts his shoulder to our wheel and soon our load is lighter. He has shared our sorrows and been glad of our joys--he has been our friend and advisor. Rev. Wykoff has added eighty nine names to our church roll making 213 members in all. Many of this eighty nine have found the Light for the first time by his aid.
       
       Altogether his pastorate will make a bright place in the church history which time cannot erase. He is the head and shoulders we might say of our new church enterprise. Seeing his mail the other day it made me feel that his sky has its clouds for such an array of literature setting forth the merits of certain church bells, pews, art windows, etc. could not be easily imagined.
       
       So thus far our church has been under the directions of Elders - Rider, Muller and Robins, and pastors - Whittaker, McCaslin, Wood, Post and Wykoff.
       
       There is at least one person here who has been wondering if she isn't going to say something about the Sunday School. This is something too near my heart to be forgotten, and to prominent to be overlooked, for it is constantly outgrowing its quarters. The Sunday School has been favored by having two consecrated Christian superintendents - Mr. A. S. Miller and the present one Mr. Salen Kile. There are nineteen earnest teachers and officers constantly trying to do something for its benefit. We are safe to say no
       S. S. is better supplied with literature and lesson helps, while good music is also prominent. But we have our trials - a week ago last Sunday one of our teachers had given her best efforts to her class and in closing asked if any boy or girl had a question to ask when up went a chubby hand, "Please can you tell me where to get a drink?" Alas for the lack of modern improvements. Again you will see two on a chair or several sitting on a step and you can readily see why the S.S. needs new quarters. This school has pledged one thousand dollars toward the new church and we will give you a hearty surprise on Dedication Sunday.
       
       The Ladies' Aid Society has always been an important factor, the Epworth League gracious helpers, and the Missionary Society every ready for its share of the burden.
       
       Historical Sketch (Davis) - 3
       
       A good start isn't much if you don't keep on going, so with God's help we will bravely remain in his service.
       
       The first chapel was begun in November 1894, moved to its present location in November 1897, and we hope to dedicate the new church in November
       1902.
       
       Dear Old Woodland, how we love you, many an aching heart has left you, rejoicing you have done your duty well. No matter how dark without, we have found sunshine within your walls. Now as the corner stone is placed let us remember to
       

"look away to Jesus        Look away from all!        Then we need not stumble,        Then we shall not fall.        From each snare that lureth,        Foe or phantom grim,        Safety this ensureth        Look away to Him."

/s/        Effie B. Davis (Mrs. H. C. Davis)