Article March 13, 1909 Issue

THE LECTURES

with contributions from Franklin Ferris, Judge Span

Prof. Hermann S. Hering lectured on Christian Science at First Church of Christ, Scientist, Feb. 4. He was introduced by Judge Franklin Ferris, who said in part.—

The beliefs of the world change from time to time; they lose their hold, and somewhere in the restless surge of humanity there rises a cry for a new faith to which the soul can cling, and, lo, as if in answer to that cry, a new light dawns, a new faith appears, and fainting souls drink anew from the waters of life! I do not know whether Christian Science has declared the ultimate truth; perhaps now no man can say whether it has. I do not profess to understand its philosophy as yet; I do not know all that it has given to its followers, but some things I believe, some things I know,—things which "he that runs may read." I know that in many households where formerly sorrow and sickness found their sad abode, there is happiness and health. I know that within the space of one short life—yes, less than the span of a life—thousands and tens of thousands have accepted this belief, and in accepting it have found life and great joy. I know that in the cities, in the villages, in the hamlets, scattered over the country, may be found men and women to whom Christian Science is an ever-living well of happiness. I know that in our great cities faithful hands, inspired by loving hearts, have reared beautiful temples where those who share the common faith may come together to declare the truth they have found; and they are not mere blind bigots, but men of thought, education, and culture. There are among them successful men of business, in the learned professions, on the bench, and in the halls of legislation. And I think it only fair to say that, aside from this direct influence. Christian Science has given a powerful impulse to the study of the Spirit, as contrasted with mere matter. Some there are, I know,—many perhaps,—who scorn the name of Christian Science; but, obliged to accept its results, astounded at its results, seek to explain them upon other grounds.

To us who are mere onlookers, if we cannot understand its full meaning, if we cannot as yet yield to its power, we may respectfully listen to this new voice and hear what it has to bring, and rejoice with those who rejoice that they have found an abiding faith. It is this attitude in which I accept the privilege to come here tonight to introduce the lecturer of the evening.—Correspondence.

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