Editorial December 17, 1904 Issue

The Study of the Manual

The reference by our revered Leader to the study of the Manual which appeared in the Sentinel of November 12, deserves more than a passing notice. The purpose of all the rules contained in the Manual is to aid Christian Scientists in becoming "a law unto themselves,"—a condition indispensable to the establishment of true democracy alike in Church and State. In Christian Science we come to understand the inherent goodness of divine law, even if, to mortal sense, its provisions seem restrictive. To the Truth-enlightened thought it means liberty and progress. The study of the Manual also aids us in apprehending and applying to present conditions the infinite provisions of this spiritual law so as to benefit others as well as ourselves.

A number of these By-laws aim to bring out the greatest possible efficiency in our church services. It is desired and provided that the Readers shall be consecrated Christians, examples of Christliness in their words and deeds. It is also required that they give proof of their fitness for this office by expressing intelligence in their reading, their bearing, and deportment. The Manual says, "These Readers shall read well and be well, educated" (Art. IV., Sect. 6). This provision is surely a most reasonable one. In the Bible and Science and Health thought is phrased with simplicity and sublimity, with pathos and power, and it becomes us to see that it is also expressed at our services in an adequate and dignified manner.

To-day no one can complain of lack of opportunity to acquire the education thus demanded, for the measure of mental freedom now enjoyed unfetters the intellectual capacities and opens the way for all, to large achievements. We think with pardonable pride of President Lincoln, who, in his early struggles, conned the classics by the fitful light of blazing pine knots, and of the many in this and in other lands who, in spite of adverse circumstances, have won their rightful place in the aristocracy of learning.

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