Amid Cleveland’s bustling streets and modern skyscrapers lies a tale of two distinct religious communities often tangled in public discourse: Christian Science and Scientology. While the latter may boast celebrity affiliations like Tom Cruise, it’s the former, with its deep roots in 19th-century religious movements, that has left a more indelible mark on Cleveland’s architectural and spiritual landscape. Central to this narrative is Lakewood’s Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, a beacon of architectural beauty and religious devotion, known for its distinctive octagonal structure until its unfortunate demolition in 2016.

The Origins and Beliefs of Christian Science

Christian Science, established by Mary Baker Eddy in the aftermath of America’s Second Great Awakening, presents a blend of Christian doctrine and metaphysical healing that diverges significantly from the beliefs of Scientology. Eddy’s innovative approach to scripture and healing, emphasizing the power of faith to cure physical ailments, propelled Christian Science into the forefront of American religious movements. Her influence extended beyond her lifetime, cementing her status as a pivotal figure in religious history.

In Cleveland, the Christian Science movement found fertile ground. The city’s first Christian Science church rose in 1891, laying the foundation for a vibrant community. This growth culminated in the establishment of the Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, in Lakewood in 1915, marking a significant expansion of the faith across the city’s geographical and cultural divides.

The Architectural Marvel of The Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist

The Unique Design

The Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, distinguished itself not just through its religious offerings but as a unique piece of architecture in Lakewood’s urban landscape. Designed by Frank W. Bail, the church’s octagonal shape broke from the traditional church designs of its time, capturing the eyes and imaginations of Clevelanders and architecture enthusiasts alike. Bail’s vision for the church was a great example of the innovation and creativity that characterized early 20th-century religious architecture.

Construction and Materials

The choice of materials for the church’s construction—Birmingham buff sandstone and Nebo marble—further emphasized its uniqueness. Completed in 1927, the building served as a spiritual home for its congregation for over six decades, enduring as a symbol of the Christian Science community’s presence in Cleveland and an integral part of the city’s architectural heritage.

A History of Preservation and Loss

Efforts to Save the Church

The closure of the Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, in 1989 marked the beginning of a prolonged battle over its fate. A grocery store chain’s acquisition and subsequent demolition plans mobilized the local community, led by then Ward-17 councilman Raymond Pianka. Through Pianka’s efforts, the church was declared a historic landmark, a move that temporarily shielded it from destruction. This highlighted the community’s deep connection to the church, not merely as a place of worship but as a historic and cultural landmark.

The Demolition of a Landmark

Despite these preservation efforts, the church’s story took a somber turn in 2014 when the City of Cleveland, citing financial constraints, sold the property to a developer. The community’s attempt to save at least a portion of the historic structure was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to its demolition in 2016. This loss was felt deeply within the community, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges facing historic preservation in urban environments.

The Tunnels Below

Like many old structures, especially churches, this building housed numerous strange tunnels below the basement level, and interesting, curving corridors that led to the basement. Unfortunately, during my visit, the tunnels below had been flooded for some time, and all I could manage to get were a few photos looking into them from a hole in the basement floor. Looking in, I could see what appeared to be a chest full of old items, plates, and other things, which had appeared to have been sitting in the water for quite some time.

The Legacy of The Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist

The Fifth Church of Christ, Scientist, once stood as a symbol of the complex interplay between faith, community, and heritage in Cleveland. Its architectural uniqueness and historical significance reflected the city’s rich tapestry of religious and cultural identities. Even in its absence, the church’s history continues to inspire reflections on the importance of preserving such landmarks.