Human beings are natural propagandists. Normally they fulfill the proverb, "The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life." They think, they talk, they act to further measures which they approve. Not merely garrulous, or given to gadding about, they are seriously disposed to promote movements which will brighten the lives of people and improve conditions in the world.

On the surface they may seem to be careless and indifferent as to what is taking place. They may appear, at times, to lend aid and comfort to doubtful undertakings. Yet after all it is to the credit of the human race that, for the most part, men and women throw their influence on the right side so far as they can discern it. All that is necessary is the opportunity, and the innate goodness of people comes to the surface with alacrity and in abundance. The good in humanity tremendously outweighs the evil. How benevolently does Mary Baker Eddy observe, on page 49 of her priceless volume, "Unity of Good," "The more I understand true humanhood, the more I see it to be sinless,—asignorant of sin as is the perfect Maker."

So it is that all Christian Scientists delight in taking an active part in advancing Christian healing. An accredited lecture on the subject offers each one a unique opportunity. For he can realize from day to day the enormous benefit the community will reap from the occasion. He can keep in thought that people will welcome the lecture, and be heartened by it. No doubt the attitude of Scientists during the days which precede the event and in the hours which follow it will have much to do with the fruitage. The power of spiritual thinking is altogether too little appreciated.

Those interested in the enterprise, and every Christian Scientist in the community is interested, will entertain glowing expectations; for will not cheer and strength be dispensed in good measure and running over? They will be confident that there will be no opposition to the endeavor, since the world today is not only in need of Christian Science but friendly toward it and looking for substantial results from it.

They will realize that there is plenty of time for meetings and gatherings of all sorts, and hence that there will be no conflict between them and the lecture. Principle prevails. They will maintain that there will be no counterattractions at the appointed hour, and that people will not permit obstacles or excuses to keep them away.

They will know, in short, that the whole lecture program is under the direction of divine Mind, and that Mind's purposes cannot be baffled. There is no other mentality or power to cause confusion. No one, after all, resists Truth. He hears and responds to the invitation, "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price."

Troubled people who attend the lecture are sure to receive the equivalent of a Christian Science treatment. The spirit of the discourse, and the atmosphere of faith and understanding inspired by the audience, invariably bring relief to sufferers, so that they leave the auditorium freed, if not entirely, then to a greater or lesser extent, from their distresses and discouragements. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name," assures the great Physician, "there am I in the midst of them."

Those in charge of the lecture arrangements will resort to any reasonable means of advertising. They will be resourceful, fearless, up to date.

is a very familiar admonition of James Russell Lowell. It is not enough, perhaps, simply to say that there will be a Christian Science lecture. Particularize by telling people that the discourse will deal with health, business, and so forth. The circular sent out to the churches by The Christian Science Board of Lectureship contains many useful publicity hints.

Telephoning people is effective. So is a personal note. Do not hesitate to approach people on the subject—outstanding or important folk included. They will be pleased. Here Mrs. Eddy speaks with her usual keen insight: "Millions of unprejudiced minds—simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert—are waiting and watching for rest and drink. Give them a cup of cold water in Christ's name, and never fear the consequences" (Science and Health, p. 570).

Practitioners and seasoned Scientists should not stay away to make room for the stranger. Sometimes he does not appear. If they apprehend an overflow, they can time their arrival for the last moment, willing to turn away in case seats are unavailable. It is a mistake to suppose that lectures are for beginners and strangers only. Lectures are for all, young or mature in Science, who believe they can gather strength and inspiration from the occasion. Certainly no one stands more in need of argument and ammunition than the practitioner or active church worker daily confronted with puzzling problems. There is no law against attending more than once if one desires.

In all that the Scientist does in promoting and arranging the lecture, he should be expectant, natural, ingenious, co-operative, courageous, loving, and withal enthusiastic. "Be not afraid of enthusiasm; you need it; you can do nothing effectually without it," reminds Guizot.

The usual program is only an hour in length. The introduction therefore must be brief, not over three minutes. Its purpose is to present the lecturer and the subject rather than the introducer and his experiences. Long quotations are not advisable. It is the privilege of the lecturer to pay tribute to our Leader at the proper time, during the lecture.

Experienced Scientists will be clear in their realization that the truth voiced and the impressions created cannot be diverted or defeated. Truth is mighty and will prevail. It knows no obstruction or interference. It is the Word, which will accomplish that where-unto it is sent, and no scheme or circumstance can foil its beneficent purpose.

The period following the lecture is a time for meditation rather than for merriment. Mrs. Eddy reminds us, in her Church Manual (Art. XXXI, Sect. 4), that "he who goes to seek truth should have the opportunity to depart in quiet thought on that subject." Isaiah counsels, "In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength."

Peter V. Ross