Religion: Holy Oil

Regardless of what your trouble may be, you can look the world in the face; solve all your problems; get what you want and fear no man or circumstance. Your happiness and success demand that you print your name clearly and send it to Rev. Charles P. Colbert, Detroit, Mich., 545 Owen Ave.

Such an advertisement has quacked in many a U. S. newspaper. People replying to it received pamphlets and a catalogue of charms, soaps, talismans, oils, perfumes, astrological forecasts, other arcane devices and potions, all marketed by the “Great Britain Spiritualist Church (Negro).” Typical items: “GRENDELINE HOLY OIL. It is said the Sibber Tribes of India used Holy Oil in all important undertakings, believing this Oil would aid them in success. Prince Sibber never believed in failure. We offer you Grendeline Holy Oil. . . . Price per bottle $1.00.” “JUNGLES FLOOR WASH . . . most important weapon for fighting Evil conditions. . . . $1.25.”

Last week the Federal Trade Commission announced it had issued a cease & desist order against Great Britain Spiritualist Church and its officers. (Among them: the widow of Mr. Colbert who died two years ago.) The FTC itemized its findings: “Grendeline Holy Oil is not a product of the Sibber tribes of India, and will not assure the users thereof health, wealth, happiness and success. . . . Mintolean Mojou Lucky Oil is not a product of African tribes or of foreign countries, and will not produce luck or have any effect on dice soaked in it. … Dr. Colbert’s House Dressing Balls will not always produce luck, peace, happiness and plenty; or banish discontent. . . .”