Article November 30, 1929 Issue

"Stately Science"

JESSIE LOUISE SALLS

The gratitude of a Christian Scientist for the works of Mary Baker Eddy, our beloved Leader, should always include a just appreciation of her Church Manual. In an extract from a letter found on page 148 of "Miscellaneous Writings" and on page 3 of the Manual, Mrs. Eddy gives the reasons for the formulation of the Rules and By-Laws as they appear in the latter. She says: "The Rules and By-Laws in the Manual of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, originated not in solemn conclave as in ancient Sanhedrim. . . . They sprang from necessity, the logic of events,—from the immediate demand for them as a help that must be supplied to maintain the dignity and defense of our Cause; hence their simple, scientific basis, and detail so requisite to demonstrate genuine Christian Science, and which will do for the race what absolute doctrines destined for future generations might not accomplish."

It is well to stop and think what we owe to these Rules and By-Laws, considering the regular and unhurried growth of the Christian Science movement. In speaking of "all right desires in their passage from sense to Soul," Mrs. Eddy says in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 566), "Stately Science pauses not, but moves before them, a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night, leading to divine heights." The word "stately" well describes the operation of Truth in human consciousness. Error of belief is met and overcome by the earnest declaration of the truth as revealed in Christian Science. In all work in Christian Science there is spiritual dignity, that quality of activity which expresses good and is governed by divine Principle.

The church service in the Christian Science church is impersonal and dignified. By studying the Manual we may find Rule after Rule which helps to make the service what it is, and which serves to defend the Cause from shallow criticism and attacks from without and from within. The service is simple and inspiring. It has the element of spiritual dignity, which our Leader knew was essential if the service was to be of the greatest benefit to mankind in bearing the message of Truth.

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The Perfect Day
November 30, 1929
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