Article June 7, 1913 Issue

Deeply regretting the necessity for this writing, yet knowing...

Ponoka (S. Dak.) Herald

Deeply regretting the necessity for this writing, yet knowing that one who is unwilling to be about the Father's business is unworthy the name of servant, in all loyalty to the Master's cause I would ask the reverend gentleman why an intelligent congregation should be provided with "a story he once heard of a lady," etc., rather than a reliable testimony accepted by Christian Scientists themselves. A suggestion of unfairness can hardly be entertained in connection with so devout a gentleman, but why should Christ's miracles be classified as "only incurable cases," when we are told that he healed "all manner of disease," "and as many as touched him were made whole"? And why does the critic tell us that Christian Science treatment is useful only in minor cases or nervous disorders, when many well-authenticated testimonies are given of healing of incurable diseases—at least so pronounced by eminent physicians? Many remarkable testimonies are found in the Christian Science periodicals, duly signed and vouched for, and as believable as are those recorded two thousand years ago.

Again, why does the critic say he will accept Christian Science when it is shown to have healed extreme cases, when he continues to disbelieve in the face of indisputable testimony? These are indeed true words: "Neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." But herein lies the strong point concerning this new-old doctrine. No one is expected to believe because of others' experiences. Mrs. Eddy tells us, "The divine Principle of healing is proved in the personal experience of any sincere seeker of Truth" (Science and Health, Pref., p. x). The gentleman freely admitted that the doctrine included a great deal of good, and in instances accomplished wonders. Well, if the cause is so sanctioned of God, who can presume to criticize or so forget the Master's gentle spirit that these great and vital "signs" can be discussed in a jocular, even ridiculing manner, when Christ Jesus himself emphasized them in such a marked degree? Rather should his humble servants be commended for endeavoring, at least in part, to realize his promises, "If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it;" "These signs shall follow them that believe;" "Greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father," etc.

Is it consistent to make a jest of those who take the Saviour's words seriously? If this pious gentleman has "read these works from beginning to end," then he may have forgotten the author's words, "Until the enemies of Christian Science test its efficacy according to the rules which disclose its merits or demerits, it would be just to observe the Scriptural precept, 'Judge not.'" "Proofs are better than mere verbal arguments or prayers which evince no spiritual power to heal" (Science and Health, pp. 344, 355).

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