Article February 12, 1910 Issue

Our clerical critic, as reported in your columns, took exception...

Olcott Haskell

Oakland (Cal.) Enquirer

Our clerical critic, as reported in your columns, took exception in a recent sermon to what he assumed were the teachings of Christian Science; but the fact is that Christian Scientists would heartily condemn the very things this gentleman condemns, for they have no place in the teachings or practice of Christian Science. We agree with this pastor that "there is absolutely no suggestions in any word of Jesus that material and physical well-being is man's chief good," also that neither are "poverty and suffering ... man's chief ills." Jesus taught, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things [supply for physical needs] shall be added unto you." Scientists are learning to accept this promise and to apply it in their lives, paying special heed to the fulfilling of the conditions specified by Jesus. Should they then be condemned because the promise is to them in some measure fulfilled?

Christian Science helps the poor man more than any other teaching, for it not only relieves his present ills, but gives him health and hope, and such an understanding as will enable him to rise above the conditions which brought him into poverty.

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