Article October 28, 1933 Issue

The Giving of Lectures

ALICE CORTRIGHT

In order to keep their lecture work from becoming stereotyped or a matter of routine the members of a certain branch church on one occasion found it helpful to consider lecture giving from three standpoints: what the church members give to the lecture, what the lecture gives to the church activity, and what the lecture gives to the community. While it was recognized that the primary intent was to reach those not yet well acquainted with Christian Science, it was also realized that the success of the occasion depended not a little upon the earnest, consistent, and consecrated efforts of the church workers. It is the local church or society which invites the lecturer, and thus the church membership collectively acts as host to the community at one of the important and interesting events in the experience of both the church and the community.

The giving of a Christian Science lecture is an occasion of rejoicing and gratitude to all who know its benefits; it is a blessed opportunity which the individual member has to give to the utmost in welcome, hospitality, and humble, loving service destined to bring spiritual assurance to all who will listen. Divine Mind guides the receptive thought as to how best this may be done.

Far in advance of this occasion members have been preparing the field through faithful attendance at the regular church services; through demonstrating the healing power of this truth for themselves and for others; through sharing these experiences with all who participate at the Wednesday evening meetings; and through devoted attention to literature distribution work. This opens the way for divine direction with regard to necessary material arrangements, so that there may be prompt action in regard to all details and clear recognition of local needs. A careful study of our Leader's message to the lecturers, on pages 248 and 249 of "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany," and of the lecture circular gives much valuable assistance, proved by experience.

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