Article July 19, 1919 Issue

A clergyman's high estimate of material methods in combating...

Lewis L. Harney

Gloucester (Mass.) Times

A clergyman's high estimate of material methods in combating disease, as reported in the Times some time ago, discloses a sufficient justification for the closing of his church, because the church service was not essential in a time of need. His creed evidently conforms to the definition of religion which he cited, in being simply "organized hopes and aspirations" without the satisfaction or possibility of fulfillment. Such is apt to be the result, unless religion is based on an exact, demonstrable knowledge of God, which is true Science.

Now that time has elapsed since the prevalence of the popular epidemic, for a just estimate to be made of some things brought into prominence during that trying period, it can safely be said that Christian Science was as successful in handling the situation as was the medical profession, not to mention a more favorable comparison which is possible. Some things were evident in the process of the experience, but one of those things was not unanimity amony authorities as to the proper course of procedure.

Since an attempt was made to classify Christian Science with other systems of thought as being similar in method, a statement from the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, Mrs. Eddy, is pertinent: "What is the cardinal point of the difference in my metaphysical system? This: that by knowing the unreality of disease, sin, and death, you demonstrate the allness of God. This difference wholly separates my system from all others. The reality of these so-called existences I deny, because they are not to be found in God, and this system is built on Him as the sole cause. It would be difficult to name any previous teachers, save Jesus and his apostles, who have thus taught" (Unity of Good, p. 9). Surely Christian Science is not based on the premise of error in truth, to which the reverend gentleman subscribed, in opposition to the teaching of primitive Christianity that good and evil cannot dwell together.

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