The experiences which many branch churches and societies have had in building edifices, remodeling structures, or purchasing property on which to build attest that every member has a responsibility in the success of such an undertaking. When through earnest daily prayer and study the spiritual foundation of church building is discerned and understood by the members, proper human steps appear.

Our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, writes in a letter to a newly dedicated church, "The praiseworthy success of this church, and its united efforts to build an edifice in which to worship the infinite, sprang from the temples erected first in the hearts of its members —the unselfed love that builds without hands, eternal in the heaven of Spirit" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 195).

A church in Los Angeles proved that the success of its building project resulted from the active spiritual thinking of its members. Something of its experience follows:

"To human sense there were formidable arguments telling us that building an edifice was too much for our small membership and that little suitable vacant property existed, none of which was for sale.

"Monthly building meetings were held, and study was devoted to the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy, and the pamphlets 'Permanency of The Mother Church and Its Manual' and 'Church Growth and the Community' were given careful consideration.

"During this period even our general fund was badly depleted. Metaphysical work was done on substance, love, supply, and compassion. As the thoughts of the members were lifted to spiritual abundance, more abundance was experienced. Bickerings, gossiping, and criticism began to dissolve; unity and supply were manifested. Never since has there been a deficit in the general fund.

"Even though property had not yet been located, a member drew plans for a building. Somewhat later, unexpected funds came to us, and at almost the same time we heard of a suitable lot for sale. However, there was a zoning restriction which presented a question whether or not we could build there. We made an offer which seemed sufficient but which included a stipulation for obtaining a variance in this zoning ordinance. The offer was rejected.

"Three months later we voted unanimously to raise the offer and remove the stipulation regarding the zoning variance. This required a united membership because our offer amounted to every dollar in the building fund, and it seemed that were permission not granted to build on the property, we should have to resell the land. This offer was accepted, and a close decision by the authorities granted permission to build, provided construction began within two years.

"Our new church is now completed. This was a challenging and inspiring demonstration of God's direction, care, and provision. It is bringing a stirring of consciousness in our community, and at each service there are new faces."

A branch in Missouri writes as follows of an experience which resulted from earnest prayerful work and spiritual growth of the individual members:

"During membership meetings to choose a design for an edifice, dissenting opinions erupted unexpectedly. Until then every step had been taken wholeheartedly, with unanimity of purpose. We were grateful to have the need for more consecration uncovered. Immediate attention was given by the membership to working together to enlarge our concept of Church, defined in 'Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures' by Mrs. Eddy.

"Blessings began to multiply for individuals and our church. Inspirational meetings were well attended, and each member devotedly prepared for them. A Christian Science lecture given during this period was better attended than any we had given previously. Gratitude for all the blessings of Christian Science, as well as for church membership, radiated in testimony meetings, Sunday School, church services, and committee activity.

"The unifying effect of working prayerfully was further apparent at the meeting for selecting a design. The decision came quickly, harmoniously, and clearly, rejoicing all our hearts and drawing us together in recognition of spiritual progress."