Article January 1, 1910 Issue

Let me first say, in passing, that there is nothing whatever...

John E. G. Sandford—Bristol, Eng.

Times and Mirror

Let me first say, in passing, that there is nothing whatever that can justly be called curious in the faith of Christian Science. which is, indeed, the practical application to our daily lives of the commandments and teachings of the greatest teacher of truth that the world has ever known. Next, let me correct what is a very common misapprehension, namely, that the healing power of Christian Science is in some way dependent upon the exercise of the human will. In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." the text-book of Christian Science, Mrs. Eddy says, "The exercise of will brings on a hypnotic state, detrimental to health and integrity of thought" (p. 446). In another passage of the text-book she condemns hypnotism in these words: "Animal magnetism or hypnotism is the specific term for error, or mortal mind;" and she adds, "This belief has not one quality of Truth" (p. 103).

Quite unwittingly, no doubt, you have once more given currency to the hoary misstatement that Christian Science is neither Christianity nor science. I suppose that Christianity needs no definition; and that Christian Scientists are entitled as much to the name of Christian as any other denomination of Christians, will be amply attested by all who have been present at any of their Sunday or Wednesday evening services, or who have any acquaintance with their labors of love among the sick, the suffering, and the sin-burdened wayfarers of this world. Mrs. Eddy teaches her followers to seek the Christ at all times, and she has bidden them to follow her only in so far as she follows Christ. Again, Webster's Dictionary defines science as "the comprehension and understanding of truth or facts." Christian Science claims to teach mankind the true facts about God and man as revealed by the Prophet of Galilee, of whom all Christians alike are followers. How can it, therefore, be otherwise than scientific?

It is delightful to notice the more tolerant tone toward Christian Science which is now being observed by the enlightened press of this country, and especially by your valuable paper; but it may not be out of place to express the hope that such venerable fallacies with regard to Christian Science as those which I have asked leave to correct above, will now find the oblivion that they deserve.

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