Article January 23, 1926 Issue

The pastor of one of your local churches recently advertised...

Frank W. Reed,—Lewiston

Tribune

The pastor of one of your local churches recently advertised to answer numerous questions, among them the following: "If Christian Scientists believe that evil is an illusion, do they then believe in sanitation?" We have not been informed what the pastor told his congregation, but your readers will want correct information on this question. So far as sanitation includes absolute cleanliness, Christian Science is in entire accord with the term. Christian Science teaches that all erroneous conditions of mind, body, and external surroundings are the result of the false belief that matter is substance. This belief leads thought away from the procuring cause of disease and discord, and, as a result, to the myriad systems and theories pertaining to health. Now every one knows that no two hygienists agree fully on what is necessary to preserve health. The cause of disease not being known to them, there are naturally many theories as to its prevention; and all who believe in material methods may take their choice, whether it be exercise, air, diet, climate, drugs, or what not. Needless to say, however, very few rely wholly on any one school, each having his own ideas as to what is necessary for his well-being.

Christian Science has departed from each and all of the above methods. It is founded on the basis of "a perfect Principle and idea,—perfect God and perfect man,—as the basis of thought and demonstration" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 259, by Mary Baker Eddy). Sanitation primarily exists in the mentality of every individual. A clean and pure heart, or thought, is exemplified in clean speaking, clean acting, and clean surroundings. It is equally true that the consciousness which is purged of belief in the reality and power of sickness and disease is rewarded with a healthy body. Jesus taught the necessity for purity within when he said, "Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness." Mrs. Eddy, speaking on the subject of sanitation, says, "A scientific mental method is more sanitary than the use of drugs, and such a mental method produces permanent health;" also, "When there are fewer prescriptions, and less thought is given to sanitary subjects, there will be better constitutions and less disease" (Science and Health, pp. 79, 175).

A mighty impetus for good in every line of endeavor was brought forth when Mrs. Eddy discovered and founded the Christian Science method of sanitation and healing. The vast host of earnest students of her writings is a living proof of the truth of her teaching.