The Northwest Enterprise

PROGRESS OF A CHURCH
By J. A. (Jack) Johnson

One of the most remarkable accomplishments in church circles in Seattle in recent years is the success attained by Rev. Fred N. Blythwood, pastor of the A. M. E. Zion Church at 1716 23rd Avenue. The construction of this church was begun by Rev. H. L. Johnston some years ago and for some reason not completed. It has since stood as an eyesore to the community and no doubt, a headache to its sponsors. So forlorn in appearance and apparently forgotten had become that neighborhood boys just for the fun of it would take pot shots with rocks at its windows to see which could more accurately knock them out.

In 1940 Rev. Blythwood came to Seattle and announced himself as its new pastor. No one paid much attention to him and he in turn said little about himself. But he went to work and God must have been with him or he could not have accomplished what he has. Rev. Blythwood has by untiring zeal and much actual work with his own hands brought the church to a place where it ranks with the best in Seattle and has won for himself the admiration of many people who once thought the church was not necessary to Seattle's best interests.

Interviewed by this reporter, Rev. Blythwood said: "Our active membership has increased from three to seventy-five; we have beautifully decorated our auditorium and installed a modern pipe organ. We are likewise contributing to the war effort by providing sleeping quarters for one hundred soldiers in the basement. I give all the credit to God, to Bishop W. C. Brown, who had faith in me and to the few loyal members who stood by me." The Northwest Enterprise wishes Rev. Blythwood and his congregation God's blessings in their future activities.

REV. FRED N. BLYTHWOOD