Article February 20, 1902 Issue

The Lectures

with contributions from Theodore E. Hancock, Jessie S. Moore, J. C. Beem, John H. Cameron, Lizzie E. Cowles

Carol Norton, C.S.D., of New York, spoke on "Christian Science as Applied Christianity" at the Alhambra, Sunday afternoon, February 2. In the face of the fiercest storm of the season there was present an audience of fully one thousand. Former Attorney-General Theodore E. Hancock introduced the lecturer in the following words:—

I am not an advocate of the doctrines or familiar with the teachings of Christian Science. I, however, recognize the fact that it has a million adherents and that their number is increasing. I have been requested to introduce to this audience one of the most eloquent and sincere of the followers of Christian Science. The words which have been selected as indicative of their belief suggest to me, perhaps, a different line of thought from that which will be followed by the gentleman who will address you. There was a time when many good people looked with fear and trembling upon scientific investigation as something which might tear down the bulwarks and undermine the foundation of their faith. They have since learned that no honest investigation will destroy what is worth having in any religion. Now that the sun has fairly risen above the horizon of the twentieth century, the clouds of dogmatism seem to be disappearing, and there is a more generous faith and a broader charity than ever before since the dawn of creation. The Jewish rabbi, the Catholic priest, and the Protestant clergyman have discovered that they can speak from the same platform without contamination or religious disintegration; and some of the members of the different schools of medicine have learned that they can consult with each other to their mutual benefit and advantage. The man who believes that only he and those who look through his spectacles are right, and that every one else is wrong is far behind the times.

Ever since men began to reason and think upon religious questions there has been too much violent and bitter controversy over technical and immaterial differences of opinion. If we are traveling the same road toward the celestial city and are striving to enter the same gate, it is not necessary that we should all ride in the same vehicle or throw stones at others who have adopted a different conveyance. The Ten Commandments and the Sermon on the Mount contain more spiritual food and moral tonic than all the theological works that ever were written. The Christian Scientists believe, as I understand, that their faith makes them better and happier. They have no quarrel with those who hold a different opinion. This is in precise accord with the theory of our republican institutions and democratic form of government, which provides that the free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall be allowed to all mankind. I have the pleasure of presenting Carol Norton, who will now address you.

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