Article April 14, 1906 Issue

The Weakness of Intolerance

Salem (Ore.) Daily Capital Journal

Rev. A. A. Morrison. of the Portland Episcopal church, has been delivering a series of lectures against Christian Science. The great inroads of the new denomination on other churches causes some of the more intolerant champions of these sects to attack the new faith. We use the word "intolerant" because we believe this is a free country in all matters relating to religious opinions. There is no real ground for attacking any man's belief. The Rev. Mr. Morrison had no real call to attack the views of Christian Scientists, unless it was that they had recently acquired a valuable church building site across the street from his church.

The Portland Oregonian, which is noted for its devotion to liberalism and agnosticism, has an able editorial, March 20, making light of the Morrison sermons, and says in conclusion : "Concerning any religion, new or old, a pertinent question may be asked, and only one — 'What does it do for its followers?' If it makes them healthier and happier, more at peace with themselves and the world, better to live with, sweeter in character, and gentler in conduct, then it is a good religion."

As all institutions must be tested by their practical adaptation to human needs in the age in which they come across the consciousness of humanity, is it hard to explain why Christian Scientists have the largest congregation in San Francisco? The only explanation can be found in the fact that they have a new message of good cheer, good will, and good tidings to the world and for which the world is ever ready.

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