Article August 1, 1908 Issue

When our critic speaks of Christian Science as "a...

John L. Rendall

Des Moines (Ia.) Register and Leader

When our critic speaks of Christian Science as "a delusion and a fad," he applies a meaning to these terms not heretofore recognized. If Christian Scientists are "deluded," they are certainly glad of it, and they note a keen effort upon the part of many of their fellow-citizens to become partakers of the same sort of delusion. A delusion which substitutes health for sickness, harmony for discord, joy and peace for unrest and unhappiness; a delusion which has redeemed thousands of people from the bondage of sin, sickness, and suffering, and which has given them a clearer faith and enlarged confidence in God, is worthy of acceptance. A "fad" is defined thus: "A trivial fancy adopted and pursued for a time with irrational zeal; a matter of no importance." Christian Science as a religion has been preached and practised for forty years. During this time it has become firmly established as a religious factor for the betterment of humanity. Its adherents are gathered from every walk of life, and are recognized as intelligent citizens, people of ability and character, and safe religionists. Hundreds of beautiful church buildings attest the substantial nature of its growth. For one therefore to designate it as "a fad" is a great error of statement. Mrs. Eddy has not "instructed her followers not to preach," but she has instructed them to preach in a different way than is ordinarily done; and the Christian Science method of preaching has been productive of wonderful results. . . .

For the benefit of this critic and all others who think they see some way to stem the tide of the growing popularity of Christian Science, I will say, You are engaged in a "vain hope." Christian Science is here to stay. Its success is due to the fact that it is meeting to a larger degree than any other religious teaching the urgent need of humanity for a more practical and satisfactory religious experience.

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