Editorial April 17, 1915 Issue

"For we be brethren"

Archibald McLellan

Notwithstanding statements to the contrary which have been made by enemies of Christian Science, the attitude of the followers of this religion toward other churches has ever been one of brotherly love, kindness, and consideration. Those who have been compelled, because of their change of views, to sever their connection with other religious bodies, have invariably taken this step, so far as their own part in the matter was concerned, in quietness and peace, and much in the spirit in which Abram parted from Lot, when he said: "Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren."

Again, whenever Christian Scientists have been compelled to define the difference between their own faith and that of other religionists, they invariably have done so in a spirit of Christian fellowship. They have recognized the utter folly and wickedness of indulging in intemperate speech and vituperative argument, and the absurdity of such methods when applied to the settlement of differences of opinion in regard to religious matters. They have taken the peaceful way in their dealings with others, because it is the Christian way, and because it is the only way in which there is likelihood of arriving at the truth of any matter on which individuals hold divergent opinions.

The important question about any religious teaching is, Is it true? and the answer to this question can be obtained only through patient, dispassionate investigation. Christian Scientists do not obtrude their beliefs upon those of other faiths; and while it is true that they are zealous in providing means by which every one may know what Christian Science is, they are careful to do this in such a way as will not offend any one, or give cause for complaint. That others have not always seemed disposed to show an equal consideration, so far as strictures on Christian Science is concerned, is to be regretted; but there has never been a time when any one who has caught the faintest ray of Christian Science, has felt the necessity for doing other than simply to correct the misstatements which have been made about his religion. To make these corrections has not been difficult, because Christian Science is not a hidden mystery, and Mrs. Eddy in her various writings has touched upon every phase of its relation to human affairs. Then, again, Christian Scientists are proving from day to day the truth of their religion through demonstration of its Principle, and in doing this they are content to rest upon the Master's assurance, "By their fruits ye shall know them."

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