Article March 23, 1912 Issue

CHURCH-MEMBERSHIP

HARRIET REED WHITE.

In accordance with the democratic form of government of all Christian Science churches, it is the custom of the board of directors of a branch church to confer with the members on all matters of importance relative to the welfare of the cause, and to solicit their intelligent cooperation in many important matters. Apathy and indifference regarding membership in The Mother Church are certainly opposed to the welfare of the cause of Christian Science since, according to our Church Manual, such membership is necessary for the organization of churches and for the proper conduct of church services.

In several places recently visited by the writer while on an extended trip, a crying need was found for members of The Mother Church, there not being enough such members to conduct properly the church services. Inquiry into the situation disclosed the fact that branch church members thought their local membership sufficient, and could not see the reason for being members of The Mother Church also. As it is possible that some Christian Scientists are unmindful of the privilege and unaware of the significance of membership in The Mother Church, it may be well to present facts which will disclose its import and reveal the necessity and inevitability of such membership as being the only proper expression of full relationship to the cause and of complete affiliation therewith.

In the historical sketch given on page 17 of the Manual, our Leader says of The Mother Church: "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Mass., is designed to be built on the Rock, Christ; even the understanding and demonstration of divine Truth, Life, and Love, healing and saving the world from sin and death; thus to reflect in some degree the church universal and triumphant." Is it not a privilege to have part in the carrying out of this design? Is it not a privilege to be actively cooperating with the splendid body of Christian workers who stand before the world, representing, in a measure, the fulfilment of this purpose? Is it not a privilege to uphold, to support such a church, and to espouse the cause for which it stands?

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