First attempts in singing in harmony, by the family, were ventured in the 1800’s, but only melodies were used in Church Service. These melodies contained lessons in practical Christian living, and were often more impressive than the spoken word. One of these was a gentle reminder in song, of the importance of loving, daily association. May I softly walk, and wisely speak, Lest I harm the strong, or wound the weak. For all these wounds I yet must feel, And bathe in love until they heal. Why should I carelessly offend, Since many joys of life depend On gentle words and peaceful ways, Which spreads such brightness o’er our days. Much of the music used in our Church Service, we believe to have been inspirationally received by members so gifted. Eldress Dorothy Durgin, who was especially adept in this gift, kept a slate by her bed, upon which she wrote the spiritual messages which came to her in the night or early morning hours. She would then pass the words to the one for whom she thought the message was intended, saying “I thought of you when these words came to me”. Some of these messages were accompanied by melody, others were set to music at a later date. And even today many of these songs remain the most loved ones in our Canterbury Hymnal. One of these, an especial favorite, reads as follows: Angels call me, call me higher To a realm of purer thought; Call me to the fountain nigher, Where the gems of Truth are wrought. Call me here to love and worship, Here to serve and learn God’s way. Rise, my soul, renewed, responsive, Meet the Christ that calls today. Ever calling are the angels, Calling to the heights Divine; Calling where the gifts immortal Seek my spirit to refine. All of life it is to serve them, All of joy to feel their power. Rise, my soul, thy friendship deepen With the Christ that calls each hour. These inspirational hymns were not confined to any one individual as in every Society there were many members so gifted. The Christ Spirit could easily find expression, where hearts were dedicated to His Service. Eldress Dorothy Durgin, who was born in Sanbornton, N. H., entered the Society at the age of 8 yrs., after the death of her mother. A lover of children, she was given the care of 24 little girls, while still a young woman. Because of her interest in the youth, she was appointed teacher of the District School, where she taught for six years. Her qualities of leadership were tremendous, so it was only natural that she be appointed to the order of Eldership, at the age of 24 yrs., which position she held for 50 yrs. She was, probably, without parallel, as a writer of hymns, and, during her lifetime produced over 30 inspired songs.