Article April 13, 1940 Issue

Fruitful Church Activity

SAMUEL H. ROGERS

It is the privilege of every member of a branch Church of Christ, Scientist, to experience the joys of orderly, progressive activity in his church. For right activity, it is most important to realize that the true Church, or spiritual idea, should always be present in one's consciousness.

"Church" is defined by Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, on page 583 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," in part, as "the structure of Truth and Love; whatever rests upon and proceeds from divine Principle." In the next paragraph, Mrs. Eddy further defines "Church" as "that institution, which affords proof of its utility and is found elevating the race, rousing the dormant understanding from material beliefs to the apprehension of spiritual ideas and the demonstration of divine Science, thereby casting out devils, or error, and healing the sick." As the correct concept of Church is attained, there comes a sincere desire to obey the command of the Master to preach the gospel of regeneration and healing to all the world. In fulfilling this desire and in obedience to the Master's command, the members of this organization participate in the activities of their church, lovingly, loyally, and joyously filling their appointed places, thus experiencing fruitful church membership.

On page 35 of the textbook Mrs. Eddy writes, "We can unite with this church only as we are new-born of Spirit, as we reach the Life which is Truth and the Truth which is Life by bringing forth the fruits of Love,—casting out error and healing the sick." The fruitage following any activity of the church will be in proportion to the readiness, willingness, unity, and love manifested in the thought of the individual member. There should be adequate preparation for efficient and intelligent service, and this preparation involves constant striving to clear from one's mental home whatever is unlike good. As this mental house cleaning progresses, the duties of church membership are more efficiently performed. Each alert member appreciates the necessity of constantly reflecting spiritual qualities, whatever his part in church work. Mighty among these qualities are love, unity, and right expectation.

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