Article April 29, 1916 Issue

A contributor whose article on "The New Theology" recently...

Avery Coonley

Peoria (Ill.) Star

A contributor whose article on "The New Theology" recently appeared in the Star, has assigned to himself what would seem to be a very difficult if not impossible task when he undertakes to account for the growth, continuity, and prosperity of the Christian Science movement by attributing to its Founder selfish motives and unworthy aims. Ignorance, selfishness, and greed are not commonly credited with being the source of anything worthy, much less of that which elevates, purifies, and spiritualizes thought, as does the teaching of Christian Science. Nor is the other explanation offered, namely, the credulity of the public, based on sound logic. The present is an age of practical achievement. The conservatism of the past is giving way to a broader outlook and a clearer vision in the field of religion, as along other lines, that which does not justify reason and demonstrate its utility finds no permanent place in the world's activities.

The Christian Science does satisfy reason and fulfil its promise of present redemption from sickness as well as from sin is established beyond the possibility of successful contradiction. During the period of nearly fifty years since Christian Science was first introduced it has afforded abundant proof of its practicality and availability in the healing of all forms of disease and in the overcoming of sin, discord, and evil of every name and nature. Its beneficiaries are to be found in all parts of the civilized world, and wherever the power of God as taught in Christian Science has found expression, thought has been lifted to a higher sense of life, a better understanding of God, a keener perception of the brotherhood of man; and nothing can stay the tide of gratitude that goes out to the one whose life was pure enough to discern the present availability of Jesus' teachings and brave enough to present her discovery to an incredulous world.

The life of Mrs. Eddy is an open book. It needs no defense, and no amount of misrepresentation or falsification can take from her the honor due to her loving and consecrated work. From her thoughtful, studious childhood, with its deep religious experience, to the time of her recovery from a serious injury through her application of the truth found in the Bible, her experiences were but preparing her for her great work in behalf of suffering humanity. How faithfully, patiently, and lovingly this work was fulfilled can be understood only by those whose thought has been so lifted as to discern in some degree the true import of her mission; but the world is increasingly according her a foremost place among the benefactors of humanity.

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