Article July 8, 1911 Issue

The uncertainly which seems to exist in the mind of the...

Clinton B. Burgess

Erie (Pa.) Dispatch

The uncertainly which seems to exist in the mind of the writer of the editorial on "The Christian Science Organization," regarding the permanence of that organization, is not shared by those who have noted its continued steady, healthy growth since the passing of its Leader. During the last four months there has been an increase of twenty-one in the number of branch churches—an average of more than one a week for that period—and during the same time the number of applications for membership in The Mother Church has been equal to any similar period in the history of the church.

The test of the endurance of a great movement, founded upon an eternal truth, is the willingness of its adherents to follow Principle rather than to lean on and worship the personality of the one who points out that Principle. Jesus said: "If ye love me, keep my commandments;" and, "It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you." He saw that his corporeal presence, vividly before them, prevented in a measure their clear apprehension of the "Spirit of truth" which he represented and taught, and which they were to have proof of at Pentecost.

No one understood more clearly the danger to a cause of turning from Principle to personality than did Mrs. Eddy, the Founder of Christian Science, as is shown in her memorable article "Personal Contagion" published in the Christian Science Sentinel of July 7, 1906, in which she says: "In times of religious or scientific prosperity, certain individuals are inclined to cling to the personality of its leader. This state of mind is sickly; it is a contagion—a mental malady, which must be met and overcome. Why? Because it would dethrone the First Commandment, Thou shalt have one God. If God is one and God is Person, then Person is infinite; and there is no personal worship, for God is divine Principle, Love. Hence the sin, the danger and darkness of personal contagion. . . . Every loss in grace and growth spiritual, since time began, has come from injustice and personal contagion."

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
If he was correctly reported, a clergyman asked his congregation...
July 8, 1911
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit