J. H. Garrison and Disciples of Christ

Book excerpt: The years between the Civil War and 1930 constitute the most critical period in the history of Disciples of Christ, yet little attempt has been made to understand that era's most prominent leaders, one of whom was J. H. Garrison. For more than sixty years, he edited and contributed to The Christian-Evangelist, the journal that became the weekly periodical of the Disciples. An editor with vast influence, he played a significant and sometimes decisive role in the life of his communion. This book is more than the story of one man; it is a critical study of the turbulent and transitional era in Disciple history spanned by his editorial career. The value of this book is enhanced by the extensive use that is made of J. H. Garrison's letters and diaries. This rich collection of source material has only recently been made available for historical research.