Editorial September 26, 1953 Issue

THE CHURCH MANUAL—OUR HANDBOOK

Richard J. Davis

The dictionary defines a manual as a book that can be conveniently handled—a handbook, or a book of rules, to be kept close or right at hand. How truly this describes the Manual of The Mother Church, which our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, has provided for the guidance and inspiration of every member of The Mother Church.

Our Manual is not a book to rest for the most part on the shelf, a book for occasional reference or perusal. The Manual is related to and concerned not only with The Mother Church, but with all of its branches. The By-Laws of the Manual provide for the organization, institution, and continuity of the branches of The Mother Church and the welfare of all its members. Speaking of these Rules and By-Laws, Mrs. Eddy says in her book "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 148): '"They were impelled by a power not one's own, were written at different dates, and as the occasion required. 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."

Because the Manual is the handbook of the Christian Scientist, it needs to be studied and its provisions thoughtfully considered and understood. Our appreciation of the Manual, our obedience and alertness to its admonitions and wise intentions, will have much to do with our growth as individual members and, indeed, as Christian Scientists. The Manual contains many By-Laws that concern us individually. They are related to our personal behavior and what one shows forth of character in the exemplification of Christian Science. Referring to this, our Leader says in "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 230): "Its rules apply not to one member only, but to one and all equally. Of this I am sure, that each Rule and Bylaw in this Manual will increase the spirituality of him who obeys it, invigorate his capacity to heal the sick, to comfort such as mourn, and to awaken the sinner."

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Editorial
SPONTANEITY
September 26, 1953
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit