The following letter is published for reasons which are...

The following letter is published for reasons which are obvious. Editor Christian Science Journal,

Dear Sir:—In the Christian Science Weekly of October 6, if I am not mistaken, I read an article that I think was written by you, saying that in small places where the numbers were few you saw no objection to one's reading an article from the Journal or the authorized Christian Science publications. It had been a privilege we had often wished for here (several of us), so I supposed, if your advice or opinion was given, it would be sanctioned by our Teacher, and as our meeting last week was very quiet, and there were strangers with us, and no one seemed able to give any experiences or make any remarks, I read an article by Mary E. Crawford published in our Journal. Several said after the meeting that they enjoyed it, and thought it much better than having nothing said; but at this week's meeting our First Reader rebuked me publicly, and said I was going beyond the limit, and there must be no reading done again. I said, "If I have gone beyond the limit I make a public apology, but I took for granted the Weekly would not have so stated it if it was going beyond the limit;" but he said Mrs. Eddy had not stated in her communication to the Journal that there was to be any reading, and it was not to be repeated, but we must keep to the words she gave, to give testimony or remarks. I think rather than have strangers sit there and hear only one or two speak the entire evening, I may read something; but if you feel that you were not authorized to give this permission, I will be very careful not to do so again. I hope I read the article correctly, and was not wrong in giving you as the author of the article. O for more freedom from mortal mind's criticism! it takes away, or rather interferes with, the very object for which the meetings are intended. Please let me hear from you by letter on this subject if not taking too much of your valuable time. I do not want to go beyond the limit in any way in our meetings.

Sincerely in Truth,
M. C. G.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

November 3, 1898
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit