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The Church, The Community & The Press

Rev. Henry Ward Beecher in his 50's When Henry Ward Beecher passed away (1813-1887), t here was a universal expression of esteem, love, and affection, that sprang forth from every part of the country, every class in society, and every religious denomination. This is an indication of how wide and deep a hold he had upon the American people during the 19th Century. No other man has exerted such a wide and profound influence on the progress of thought — moral, political and religious—in this country during the 1800's, as has Mr. Beecher. It may be claimed that other reformers have done more to change the political constitution from a pseudo-democracy governed by a slavocracy to a genuine democracy governed by its free industrial classes. Or, that other teachers have done more to promote that political enthusiasm out of which new parties are born (Republican Party) and by which they must be inspired-or die. Or, that other theological thinkers have exerted a more permanent influenc...

The True Law of the Household

Rev. Henry Ward Beecher Speaking on The Strength of the Family Institution, adapted from "The Original Plymouth Pulpit" Brooklyn, NY ca. 1868 “Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind ; and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee; for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." -LUKE XIV., 12-14. The Loving Household Beecher Family Portrait - The Beecher Family, ca. 1859, photographed by Mathew Brady.  The household is founded upon love; and with all its imperfections it is still the best institution which society has ever had, or which it has now. Though its foundations are the natural affections; though it is very possible for father and mother to manifest love full of self-denial;...