Article May 25, 1929 Issue

In the issue of November 29, in your report of a meeting...

Arthur E. Blainey, Committee on Publication for the Province of Ontario,—Woodstock

Sentinel-Review

In the issue of November 29, in your report of a meeting in All Saints Anglican Church, you attribute to the archbishop certain references to Christian Science which require correction. It seems regrettable that the confirmation of new members in a Christian church should become the occasion of an unjust attack on other Christian denominations, the adherents of which are equally sincere in their desire to follow Christ, and to worship God aright.

It is reported among other things that the archbishop "referred to Christian Science as being neither Christian nor scientific." Assuming that this statement expressed his candid opinion, it must be further assumed that his Grace has been misinformed. The statement, "neither Christian nor scientific," is a time-worn, hackneyed, set phrase, at one time popular with critics of Christian Science, but rarely heard to-day. In the light of repeated corrections, so susceptible of confirmation, excuses for misinformation on this point are practically eliminated.

"Christian," is defined in part by Webster as: "Professing, believing, or belonging to Christianity; . . . following Christ's precepts and example; Christlike; kind; kindly; beneficent." The same authority defines "science" as: "Knowledge; knowledge of principles or facts; . . . knowledge classified and made available in work, life, or the search for truth;" and "scientific" as: "Having a knowledge of science; . . . evincing science or systematic knowledge." In the light of these comprehensive definitions, no professing Christian should experience difficulty in recognizing the teachings of Christ Jesus as strictly Christian and scientific. Consequently, as Christian Science is founded on the teaching of Christ Jesus, it must be both Christian and scientific in the highest meaning of these terms. Furthermore, all science must be, and is, demonstrable. A correct understanding of scientific Christianity as taught by Jesus, both by precept and example, must necessarily be comprised of exact, scientific knowledge, and be susceptible of proof. Also, strict conformance to his loving admonition to "preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils," affords ample opportunity for such proof, which must be based on true, scientific knowledge of Christ's Christianity. This is what Christian Scientists are earnestly striving, with remarkable success, to accomplish; and this is why the name "Christian Science" is apt and correct. Not by destructive criticism, but by the standard set by Christ Jesus, "Ye shall know them by their fruits," shall Christian Science be judged and justified.

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