Article October 31, 1908 Issue

THE LECTURES

with contributions from Clifford P. Smith, George W. Solley, J. N. Cox

The regular semiannual lecture on Christian Science given by The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, was delivered on Thursday evening, Oct. 22, by Bliss Knapp, C.S.B., member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship. The spacious auditorium of The Mother Church was filled to its utmost capacity at an early hour by an audience which included a large number of those who were manifestly hearing for the first time an authoritative statement respecting the teaching of Christian Science. The lecture was listened to with that unflagging attention which evidences the liveliest interest.

The lecturer was introduced by Judge Clifford P. Smith, First Reader of The Mother Church, who spoke as follows:—

In behalf of the officers and members of this church, I extend to you a cordial welcome. The presence of this vast audience proves that many persons are making inquiries concerning the Principle and practice of Christian Science. Logical and orderly inquiry into the truth and value of any discovery or addition to human knowledge, necessarily includes hearing of it as presented in the affirmative by some qualified person. The affirmative side of a question can seldom be learned from one who maintains the negative. If Ferdinand and Isabella had not listened to Columbus, but had heard his propositions only as presented by those who did not believe in them, they would not have profited by his discovery. Therefore, inquirers who attend the lectures given under the auspices of this church pursue a logical and orderly method of inquiry. What Christian Science teaches and what it does for humanity is best set forth in the Christian Science text-book. For the benefit, however, of those who wish also to see and hear a personal witness, this church provides semiannual lectures by members of a Board of Lectureship, which is composed of men and women who can speak with actual and adequate knowledge. Such is the present occasion; and I can assure you that the speaker is well qualified for his subject. It is therefore with much pleasure that I introduce to you the lecturer, Bliss Knapp.

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