England answers the call

“England Answers the Call” - page 211, Christian Science Wartime Activities (WWI).

As no opportunities were allowed for setting up Christian Science study and rest centres within the designated camps in England, facilities were provided in nearby towns, even if there were no officially organised Christian Science churches there. These were initially in the south of England. 

One can imagine the setting in Colchester - page 213:

    The writing facilities were the great attraction in the early days to many men who enjoyed the peace and quiet, instead of the racket of the usual places provided for them. As time went on, they began to take an interest in the Monitor, the periodicals, and finally in the textbook, in a way in which perhaps they might never have done except for the opportunity thus given to them.

I am reminded of the last letter I had from my brother during World War II. He was in the RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force), the pilot with a crew from various Commonwealth countries and working with the RAF (Royal Air Force). He wrote to me from London. I have just now read the heading on the “letter-folder”:

    These Letter-folders are supplied to H.M. Forces with the Compliments of Singer Sewing Machine Co. Ltd. (Black ink)

    Members of H.M. Forces planning to spend their leave in London should ask the Hon. Superintendent for a list of Church Army Service Hostels in London, where there is always an assured welcome, as in all Church Army Huts and Canteens at Home or Overseas. (Red ink)

The Singer Sewing Machine logo heads the page to the left of the text.

I have discovered that the Church Army was founded in 1882 in association with the Church of England and still operates in many parts of the Anglican community. So, no doubt there were similar havens in England during World War I. What blessings must have accrued in these places of refuge and peace.

Now I am wondering about my father and my guardian who both served during WWI. Did they seek out these places? Did they perhaps come across a Christian Science haven?

The letter-folder folds down to 4” to 3 ½” and requires a 2 ½d. postage stamp.

Joyce Voysey