Article February 11, 1922 Issue

A writer in your "Free Lance" columns, under the heading...

Theodore Burkhart—Portland, Ore.

The Telegram

A writer in your "Free Lance" columns, under the heading of "Free Thinking and Churches" expresses some views on Christianity and takes occasion to say, "Christian Science is not a religion, it is a business." Probably none of your readers will really take him seriously as to Christian Science not being a religion, for if that were true there are no religions in the world. If any of the many Christian denominational church beliefs may properly be called a religion, surely Christian Science is also a religion. But as to Christian Science being a business, that depends upon what our critic means. If he is using the word business in its ordinary sense, a mere commercial means of livelihood or gain, I answer, No, he is quite mistaken. Christian Science is not a business.

Christian Science teaches something higher than commercialism or the amassing of material wealth. In the highest sense, the practice of Christian Science is a busy-ness, for if its teachings are followed its adherents busy themselves with applying Christian principles to their everyday affairs and problems. Thus Christian Scientists are in the business of making practical use of their religion, and this busy-ness is not unprofitable—for the correct understanding and application of Christ's teachings does bring gain in all the things of life which are really worth while, making happier and healthier men and women, bringing about better and more harmonious conditions in the home and outside it, more honesty and fairness in business dealings, better citizenship—the ultimate goal to be gained being that perfect and harmonious state of being which men call heaven. "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"

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